A: This is going to sound cheesy, but I feel like people should imagine the very best possible ver-
sion of themselves and make that person their role model. As Oscar Wilde said, “Be yourself.
Everyone else is already taken.” I would also hope that a child or teen has someone at home (a
parent, guardian, etc.) they could look to as an example instead of someone from a movie or tele-
vision show, but the fact is, many young people do and probably always will emulate the behaviors
of reality stars and other people they see on TV. That’s why I make a point to live my life in a way
I’d be proud for kids to follow. I try to promote a healthy body image, and I’ve also been very open
about my abstinence. Just because I live my life a certain way doesn’t mean I think everyone should
necessarily live exactly the way I do, but I do think it’s important for me to be a (standard) of what
I feel is upstanding or ethical and stand behind those principles.
MOI: What inspires or motivates you?
A: Career-wise, I would say picturing my end goals or imagining how productive I will feel upon
the completion of a project, then working hard to bring everything to fruition. Outside my career,
nothing motivates me like a delicious multi-course meal (always followed by dessert) waiting for
me, and I also find myself inspired by touring art galleries, listening to local bands, or taking a hike
through nature.
MOI: What are tips the average person could do to look more like a model?
A: True beauty radiates from within, so if you truly have confidence in and value yourself, you
will automatically be perceived as more vibrant and attractive by others. Other ways to achieve a
model-esque appearance are exercising regularly (even if you can only dedicate 15 or 30 minutes a
day to break a sweat) and making sure you eat according to the food pyramid (plenty of vegetables,
whole grains and lean proteins with moderate amounts of dairy, sugars and fats). Knowing how to
dress for your body type, what colors compliment you, and choosing the right accessories are also
major contributing factors in an overall appearance.
MOI: What do you like about the city of New Orleans?
A: Where do I begin? I love almost every aspect of New Orleans, and the culture, music and his-
toric buildings are truly one of a kind. I also enjoy the way that locals treat every other day like a
special occasion. Who says it needs to be a holiday in order to throw a parade? Also, I think that
many people may underestimate the influence that local designers are having on the fashion in-
dustry, but I never cease to be blown away by the artistry of these hard working NOLA designers.
Being a part of NOLA Fashion Week and watching it evolve has truly been a blessing, and I look
forward to returning in the years to come.
Fashion Designer, Jewelers from New Orleans Fashion Week
Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: Paul Mitchell School of Design
Writer: Andres Fuentes
Photographer: Gustavo Escanelle
Location: New Orleans Board Of Trade
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