Chrissy Teigen says Asian models are 'underrepresented' in fashion

Feb. 20 (UPI) -- Chrissy Teigen says Asian models are "underrepresented" in the fashion industry.

The 31-year-old model called for more Asian faces on the runway and in magazines while attending the 2017 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue launch.

"I think it's really important to start embracing people without seeing them in roles that are 'that Asian girl' or 'that Asian boy,' or seeing them in movies where you're like, 'oh this Asian girl is dating this white guy,'" Teigen told E! News.

"I want it to be normal. I want it to be a normal thing to be able to see Asian models. I think Asian models are really underrepresented in the industry, especially on the runways [and] in magazines," she said.

"I personally am not offended by cultural appropriation of any sort because I do feel like it does pay homage. At the same time, there are a lot of beautiful, beautiful Asian woman that can do the same thing," the star added.

Teigen, who is of Thai, Norwegian and German descent, previously slammed the Miss Teen USA pageant for a lack of diversity. Her comments on Asian models follow Karlie Kloss' apology for her geisha-inspired photo shoot in the March issue of Vogue.

"These images appropriate a culture that is not my own and I am truly sorry for participating in a shoot that was not culturally sensitive," the 24-year-old model tweeted last week.

"My goal is, and always will be, to empower and inspire women," she added. "I will ensure that my future shoots and projects reflect that mission. Sincerely, Karlie."

Teigen's spread in the new Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue marks her first appearance in the magazine since welcoming her daughter, Luna, in April. She shares the 10-month-old infant with husband John Legend.