Birmingham Model Royal Cromwell’s High Heels — and Even Higher Ambitions

By Je’Don Holloway-Talley | For The Birmingham Times Ten-inch heels are more than a fashion statement for Royal Cromwell — they are a declaration of confidence, a tribute to his unapologetic androgyny, and a symbol of defiance. In a world that often demands conformity, Cromwell refuses to shrink. Instead, at 5 feet, 7 inches tall, he rises—and, in his heels, towers—commanding attention in ways that can’t be ignored. At just 24, Cromwell’s journey into fashion wasn’t just about style, it was about self-discovery, resilience, and making space where none existed. As a Gen Z model, creative force, and runway coach, Cromwell, who identifies as “male with androgynous features,” has broken barriers in fashion. In 2024, he secured a pivotal role as a model coach and the chief operating officer (COO) with RxRunway, a global fashion production company operating in more than 17 countries, including fashion capitals like Tokyo, Japan; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Milan, Italy; Paris, France; and New York City, New York. Getting hired by RxRunway felt too good to be true, Cromwell told The Birmingham Times. “I thought it was a scam,” he said with a laugh. “I took my student refund check and booked a flight. …...