September Model of the Month – Vida D.

We are so excited to have our up-and-coming Missy fit model, Vida D, as our September Model of the Month. With years of experience being an actress and commercial/print modeling, Vida now has a couple of new fit clients under her belt. Continue reading more to learn more about where Vida’s goals and her journey as a model. 

1. Where are you from?
  Born in California raised in NYC. I’m truly Bicoastal!

2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?
 I am a mother, former ballet dancer, yoga enthusiast and actress.

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz (would love if you mentioned G-iii and Marquee brands here!)?
 It’s so fun to wear a strap on belly pad for maternity wear, I personally wore a Pea in the Pod wedding dress (a maternity brand marquee has) when I was 7 months pregnant many years ago, so it brings back memories of that incredible time in my life. My son now attends the same high school that Calvin Klein went to, and its a privilege to work as a fit model for the iconic brands Calvin Klein and Karl Lagerfeld at G-iii. We are all connected!

4. Dreams/goals, anything else of interest?
 I would love to live in NYC and Upstate NY surrounded by plants and trees and to work for a sustainable brand who loves nature and luxury as much as I do!

5. Fit/modeling career highlights?
    It’s a pleasure to bring clothes to life and to step into a variety of looks that I would never wear in my every day life. You can see how acting is an asset in this business, you are personifying all the different roles women are in society.

6. How did you get into fit modeling? 
  Years ago I was working on a commercial and I met a beautiful Beyonce-esque woman who told me about fit modeling and how lucrative it was. It showed me that fit is an inclusive industry and there is demand for all types of bodies where as before I was used to a one size fits all mentality. Fit is truly a diverse and inclusive industry before it was trendy to be so. The traits that one may be insecure about may be the very thing that makes one unique and valuable in the business. Love and accept yourself and things work out!

July Fit Model of the Month – Thea G.

We are thrilled to have the dynamic Thea as our July Model of the Month! Starting off as a figure-drawing model, Thea now finds himself fitting with clients like Eckhaus Latta and Coach. Thea is now trailblazing in the fashion industry – and we are happy to be a part of his journey!

Where are you from?

I’m from Cos Cob, CT just outside NYC.

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What are you into… studies, hobbies, special skills, etc?

I love the outdoors and being in nature- taking care of my garden, hiking, swimming, sailing, spending time with friends, dancing, playing music, and making theater. In addition to modeling, I’m an artist (voice actor) and body worker/healer (Alexander Technique). I like my work in all these areas to inform one another in positive ways. 

Favorite fit clients from the biz?

Coach, Marc Jacobs, I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Mike Eckhaus and the design team at Eckhaus Latta for over five seasons in fit, ecomm, and runway.

Dreams/goals? Anything else of interest?

I’d love to continue to collaborate with artists of all kinds in in new and interesting ways. It could look like integrating my healing practice with the artistic relationships I’m building or finding ways to contribute, build and play to make the world a more just, beautiful and strange place. As a queer person I’d love to continue to collaborate with artists that challenge binaries and break barriers in their work.

Fit modeling career highlights?

Hearing designers squeal with delight as their design sketches/dreams of garments turn into living walking breathing pieces. Co-creating and inhabiting the characters that wear these garments..not only who they are but what they do, where they find themselves at this particular moment. As an actor I love getting to play that quiet mysterious role by simply standing and walking in a prototype near completion.

How did you get into fit modeling?

I had done work as a figure drawing model, and had modeled for some fashion classes at art schools I used to work at, and really liked it. Later I responded to an Instagram model call, met the team at Eckhaus Latta and the rest is history. 

June Model of the Month – Kyle

We are so happy to have Kyle as our June Model of the Month! Starting off on the runway at Full Figured Fashion Week, XXL model Kyle has branched out into many new areas of modeling including Print, Commercial and Fit. We are so excited to have Kyle on our board and look forward to seeing what is to come!

1. Where are you from?

I’m born and raised in Queens, NY.

2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?

I’m a really chill guy! I enjoy working out, traveling, spontaneous adventures. I used to play football so I enjoy watching football and sometimes playing.

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?

My favorite fit client I would say would have to be New Balance. Getting that opportunity to go to Boston and see their headquarters was amazing. New Balance in the past couple of years has really taken over the sports community. They have partnered with up and coming artist and designers to create these different color ways and styles of their previous sneaker models. I can see myself working with them more in the future in a greater capacity. 

4. Dream client, goals, anything else of interest?

When I started modeling I didn’t have any real goals I just was doing it because my cousin told me I should – but since starting, I want to be the face of a major brand. Seeing a big guy with a beard and some tattoos would look pretty cool in Times Square if you ask me. I really want to work with Puma, New Balance again (on a campaign) and John Elliot. Nike has always been a dream but I think they have enough big guys these days!

5. Fit/modeling career highlights?

Since starting this journey I will say doing a national campaign with Bonobos has probably been my best highlight . My friends and family seeing my photos in stores and subways was just an amazing experience, then being able to see myself was just a euphoric feeling.

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

I got into modeling because of my cousin. I was joking around on Facebook about getting into beard modeling, she saw the post and took it serious and suggested I try walking in a runway show that someone she knew was hosting. I first walked in Full Figured Fashion Week and since then things have taken off.

Fit Model of the Month – Veronica T

We are thrilled to have the gorgeous and talented Veronica T as our Fit Model of the Month! Starting off as a Print model, she has now found herself #bookedandbusy as an apparel, swim and lingerie plus fit model. Continue reading to learn more about Veronica, her hobbies, and how she got started!

1. Where are you from?

Born and raised in NJ.

2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?

My #1 hobby and passion is dancing! At this time, it is particularly Salsa dancing. I also enjoy yoga, bike riding outdoors, and cooking. Astrology is also a hobby of mine. I consider myself a spiritual person. 

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?

Fashion to Figure, the head of technical design and designer have taken me under their wings and given me extensive training. They value my input very much and we are a great team. They also keep me very busy.

4. Dreams/goals, anything else of interest?

A dream goal of mine is to be a fit model for brands like Zara, Victoria’s Secret and H&M mainly because these brands are so influential in today’s culture. I don’t believe that grading up from a size 2 or 4 does the average American woman who is a size 14 any justice! Same thing goes for fitting on a form.  

5. Fit career highlights?

A highlight for me has been my extensive training as well as fit etiquette. I know when to speak up and when to listen. I truly want nothing more than a brand to flourish when I am their fit model. Seeing positive reviews on garments that I know I’ve helped fit gives me a sense of pride. 

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

I have been represented as a print model with Bicoastal Management for a couple of years and Malissa and Angel thought that I had the right specs for fit modeling so we gave it a shot. Happy to say everything is working out great! I love my Fit modeling career and can’t wait to grow!

April Model of the Month – Janine T

We are so excited to have the gorgeous and multi-talented Janine as our April Model of the Month. Starting as a fashion model, Janine has now also found herself as a fit model as well! Continue reading to learn about Janine, her hobbies, and her top fit highlights!

1. Where are you from?

Hi there! I know it’s a model rarity but I am born and raised in Brooklyn, New York.


2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?

I have gotten back into my art and have been working on my children’s book story boarding/ sketching. I’ve also revisited rollerblading and have been steadily speeding my way through my Irish step (both soft shoe and hard shoe) dance lessons. 

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz? 

I have definitely been enjoying fitting with the Madewell team! So a fun and such a smart crew. I also have enjoyed all my time fitting for my whole range of clients from Narciso Rodriguez, to Crye, to the students at Marist college! It’s definitely been enjoyable and different experience all around. 

4. Dreams/goals, anything else of interest (any fit dream clients?)?

Dreams of mine is definitely to be able to work and/or collaborate with Thom Browne, Nicholas Ghesquière and with Chloé (the brand). Fit dream clients would be Michael Kors, Frame, Johnathan Simkhai, Mother, Khaite and so many more! I just enjoy being a part of the design process and everyone has their own techniques and handling it’s such a pleasure to watch and be a part of it!

5. Fit career highlights?

Fit career Highlight, being the model used for a Narciso runway collection! Not only a learning experience but just wow! Enjoyable to see where it started and then to see all the garments grace the runway! 

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

How did I get into fit modeling…It all started with a go see 😉 

March Fit Model of the Month – Jamie F

Our March Model of the Month is Jamie F, Target-approved size 18W fit model! With years of experience under her belt, this Ohio native has relocated to the Tri-State area and is ready to work! Continue reading to learn more about Jamie.

1) Where are you from?

I am originally from Solon, Ohio which is a Suburb of Cleveland, Ohio.

2) What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?

I went to school for Musical Theatre. I did that professionally all over the country for a little while and then transitioned into Fit Modeling, Modeling, and Commercial work but I still love singing. It has always been my first passion. I also can’t get enough of a good Latin fusion dance class! I absolutely love traveling and discovering new places and I’m a big animal lover. If I could rescue all the shelter dogs at the shelter, I would but for now I have one pup named Joey and he is a total love bug!

3) Favorite Fit clients from the biz?

My absolute favorite fit client would have to be Target and Hackwith Design House. I have been Target’s size 18 Fit model for over 4 years now and have had the opportunity to work with so many different teams, technical designers, and designers. I have learned so much from working with so many different people there. Hackwith Design House is an ethically sourced clothing brand. They are a small company and I love that they put there heart and soul into everything they produce. The team is all about inclusion and I love it!

4) Dream/goals anything else of interest( any fit dream clients?)

I just moved to the East coast from the Minneapolis area and had a pretty steady client list there for fit, print, live tv, and commercial work. However, I wanted to move to the East coast to be closer to my amazing family. My dream would be to build a similar client base on the East coast. I would love to work with clients for fit and print such as Calvin Klein, Eloquii, Gap, Torrid, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Lane Bryant, Ann Taylor loft and so many more. I would also love to have a family one day and have my own animal rescue.

5) Fit Career highlights?

Some of my favorite highlights would be when Target launched Universal Thread. I got to be a big part of that launching process. I was in there for weeks fitting. It was really cool to see and be apart of.

I also got to be the first Plus Size Fit model for two different company’s: Hackwith Design and Ross Sportswear. Both of these company’s had never carried Plus clothing at the time so they were starting from scratch. That was an amazing process and really fun to see!

6) How did you get into fit modeling?

Over four years ago when I started modeling in Minneapolis, which surprisingly has a really good market. My agency started sending me on Fit castings. I started booking regular clients and absolutely loved it!

Fit Model of the Month – Olya M

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1. Where are you from?

I’m from the city Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine.

2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?

I love pouring acrylic art, I can spend hours creating it. That’s where I release all my emotions and feelings.

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?

I truly love all my clients, but my most favorite ones are Ralph Lauren, Katie May, meUndies.

4. Dreams/goals anything else of interest?

Oh, I definitely want to fit with Alexander Wang, he is one of my favorite designers!

5. Fit career highlights?

I remember when I was called for Ralph Lauren for showroom as their sub model, and within a few weeks I became their production and showroom model! So thankful, as it became one of my favorite accounts.

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

To tell you the truth, it was by accident but it opened up a lot of opportunities for me. I have learned a lot about fashion industry and it helped me build confidence!

November Model of the Month – Alex C.

We are so excited to have the super-experienced fit and commercial/print model, Alex C, as our November Model of the Month. Starting at age 13 has given her many years of experience in modeling and interest in fashion design, and this current New Yorker Alex has now fit for some incredible brands that she herself has been a long time wearer of!

Continue reading more to learn more about Alex’s interesting hobbies, career goals, and favorite fit clients.

1. Where are you from?
   
   Originally, I am from Bel Air, Maryland, but currently live in New York.
   
2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?
   
   I love to paint, run, hike, and horseback ride (English). I also really enjoy yoga & I have recently learned Integrated Energy Therapy. I study Psychology at University of Maryland Global Campus & plan to have a therapy practice soon.
   
3. Favorite clients from the biz?
   
   My favorites are definitely Rag & Bone and Alice & Olivia! All of their clothing is the style I would wear personally on a day to day basis and I own so many of their pieces already.
   
4. Dreams/goals anything else of interest?
   
   My other dream clients are Berta & Zimmerman.
   
5. Career highlights? 
   
   I’d have to say that landing Alice & Olivia was so exciting. I wear all of their clothes so it was a perfect fit for me, and an awesome full circle moment!
   
6. How did you get into fit modeling?
   
   My good friend Nancy introduced me because I was always doing showroom & she was fitting. I met one client and really loved it from the start. I always had interest in design and the technical side because of sewing costume dresses with my mother growing up. 🙂

September Model of the Month – Jaimi P.

We are so excited to have the super-experienced Missy fit model, Jaimi P, as our September Model of the Month. With years of experience, current New Yorker, Jaimi, has now fit for so many awesome brands on both the East and West Coast, and additionally has traveled to China to fit on-site at factories! Continue reading more to learn more about where Jaimi has been and her journey as a pro fit model!

1. Where are you from?
   
   I grew up in a very small town in Minnesota -surrounded by lakes, rivers, pine trees, and wildlife.  We had horses, dogs, cats, lizards, birds, hamsters, and even a pet goat named Houdini.  I’m a city girl now, but I’m grateful that my family remains rooted in my childhood home.  It’s my favorite holiday destination, particularly when it’s filled with my many nieces and nephews!
   
   
2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?
   
   I love motorcycling, road-tripping and camping.  A few years ago, I combined all three and rode my motorcycle all around the Western half of the country – camping all along the way.  It was extraordinary (even the bit where I rode through an unexpected snowstorm in Wyoming)!
   
   
3. Favorite clients from the biz?
   
   I have enjoyed all of my fit clients, for different reasons. I love working with the Ralph Lauren Denim team!  I will always have a soft spot for my Los Angeles fit families Monique Lhuillier and Sanctuary. Making the move from Los Angeles to New York was bittersweet. 
   
   
4. Dreams/goals anything else of interest?
   
   I have so much fun fitting for brands across the board from bridal / formal wear to casual wear and denim. I’d love to add more swimwear and fitness brands to the mix as well! 
   
   
5. Career highlights? 
   
   I love to travel, so I’ve really enjoyed the trips I’ve taken with my fit clients.  One of my favorite trips was to China where I got to tour the factory and work directly with the seamstresses that build the bridal gowns for one of my clients. 
   
   
6. How did you get into fit modeling?
   
   I feel like I’ve been preparing for this career long before I started, as my mom is a hobby seamstress and I also work as an actor, often working on stage in classical productions. I’ve had many clothes and costumes built and tailored for me over the years. When I was randomly scouted by a fit agent in Los Angeles several years ago, I found it to be a very natural fit for me (pun intended).  With the recent transition many companies are making into zoom fittings – my self-tape setup and film making skills have been put to good use as well, which has been a fun challenge!

Model of the Month – Leah M.

She is back! We are thrilled to have our pro-size 6 fit model star, Leah McGarry (formerly known as Leah Heifferon), as our August Model of the Month. Book publisher turned model, Leah has a decade of experience in the industry working for clients like DVF, Madewell, and Tory Burch. Continue reading to find out more about Leah and her fit model experience!

1. Where are you from?

The middle of the desert near Tucson, Arizona. We had a horse, goats, chickens, and grew our own vegetables. People are always surprised to hear this about me, probably because I love New York City so much.

2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..?

I’m into good food, weird wine, reading and hiking upstate.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

I feel so lucky to have been able to work with such great clients! Some favorites include Madewell, Gap, DKNY, Rag & Bone, DVF, Tory Burch, Zac Posen–to name just a few!

4. Dreams/goals anything else of interest? 

I’d love to fit for some sustainable brands. I see more and more of them launching and I’d love to be a part of that movement.

5. Career highlights? 

Getting to work for Diane von Furstenberg for 8 years was amazing–it
was great to have something so steady in an industry that is
constantly changing; it really felt like a family.

Getting to travel with them to Hong Kong was also very cool, as was going to Milan with Ralph Lauren!

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

I was working in publishing, selling translation rights to American novels to international publishers, and was looking for a way to supplement my income. I started getting more and more fit clients and decided to make the switch to fitting full-time. I miss my other life sometimes but I still enjoy books in my free time.