Fashion Model of the Month – Eric Chong

 We are excited to announce our star, Eric, as our January Model of the Month. This NYC native has a promising career ahead of her whether it be in modeling or as a DJ, Eric puts his all into anything he develops a passion for. Continue reading to find out more about Eric’s modeling journey and much more!

Vegas Giovanni Photography | 2017 | NYC: Enigma

1. Where you are from?

I was born in New York City to Korean parents. Although I have made significants stops in Nevada and California.

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

I’m one of those geeks that dive completely into an interest as soon as I feel inspiration. It’s like I almost become married to it for a few months then go off and find my next interest. My first love was the work of J.R.R Tolkien, I even have one of his poems tattooed on my back in Elvish.  My second love had to be combat sports- I think their something primal and meditative about collision sports. Most importantly I have always been into music, DJing for almost many years and being an affiliate engineer for Ruff Ryders Entertainment. I would remake beats live with vinyl and turntables for a live hip hop band. I also spent a lot of time interning for different music studios in LA and also was a Sous Chef at a Japanese restaurant in Manhattan. Eventually I quit everything to become the next Batman or Joker (haven’t decided yet).

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

All of them! I think every small or large job is in support of a larger creative vision. It is always a privilege to contribute to a project greater than myself. A memorable one would be my campaign with MAC Cosmetics, it was pretty surreal because it was the first time I saw myself in a physical store. I don’t think I will forget my most recent job with Nike as it was my first time having my travel and lodge covered by a client and I got to meet many kindred spirits.

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

My sincere ideal is to simply go where I am most valuable, no matter where that may be. I would love to get a feature in GQ or Vogue. I have recently rediscovered my Asian heritage and it’s become a bit of a dream to work in South Korea. Working for clients like Adidas, Dolce & Gabbana and ASOS would be great since I’ve spent countless dollars on them haha!

5. Career highlights?

My career highlights are the ones I get to keep enjoying. The people I have met have been some of the most passionate and interesting humans; those with uniqueness who want to change the world. I am almost certain I have met most of my lifelong friends through this industry.

6. How did you get into modeling ?

I was actually trying to DJ for a charity fashion show where the proceeds were going to victims of homelessness and child sex trafficking. As a former homeless youth I was dying to be a part of this. Ends up that they were short on models and they asked me to model. I initially hesitated because I wasn’t highly confident in my physical appearance. I ended up walking the show and that lead to meeting photographers, doing shoots and eventually being scouted. I made sure not to walk into it with idealizations or “me-centric” intentions. I just want to keep enjoying the story as it unfolds.

Fit Model of the Month- Sydney Sabean

We are thrilled to have our Fit star on the rise, Sydney Sabean, as our January Model of the Month. From fitting with clients like GAP and Crye Precision, Sydney continues to show love and devotion to the industry!

 

1. Where you are from?

Born and raised in Manhattan, New York.

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

Acting has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. My dream is to voice an animated character! Exercise and especially group fitness is another passion of mine. I teach indoor cycling classes at Flywheel Sports 7x a week and it is one of the best parts of my day. In my free time, I love going to stand up comedy shows, trying new restaurants and listening to podcasts- my current favorite is Crime Junkie. Im currently working on a short film with my writing partner in which I play a serial killer who finds her victims on dating apps.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

Im lucky that my favorite clients are the ones I currently fit with Gap and Crye Precision. The team at Gap is so welcoming and open to feedback, while Crye Precision is the most unique brand I have worked with. They have one of the hardest jobs making military uniforms and they handle it with such ease.

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

I would love to fit athletic wear as my Fit career progresses. Working in fitness, I know how crucial and precise the fit needs to be. Improperly fitting workout gear can completely ruin an experience and we don’t need our clothing making exercise even harder. To name a few fitness brands, I would love to work with Lululemon, Alo Yoga, Bandier or Fabletics.

5. Career highlights?

Definitely becoming a regular with the Gap team has been a career highlight!

 

6. How did you get into modeling ?

I found Fit modeling completely unexpectedly! I was having photos taken for potential commercial work by a wonderful photographer named Lisa Houlgrave. Lisa was a former Fit model and she new Malissa and the Bicoastal Team. She made the fateful introduction and the rest is history!

 

 

 

Fashion and Fit Model of the Month- Anelisa

We are excited to have our fashion, commercial and fit star on the rise Anelisa Durham, as our November Model of the Month. With years of experience Anelisa has worked for clients such as Maybelline, Uniqlo, Zac Posen and Minnie Rose to name a few. Keep reading to learn more about Anelisa’s ventures in the fashion industry.

 

1. Where you are from?

As a military brat I moved around a lot, but my dearest friends and the place where I did the most of my growing up is Oregon- so I consider that my place of origin.

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

I love poetry! Reading it, speaking it, and sharing my favorite finds through Instagram. It makes me so happy whenever someone tells me that a poem I found helped them or inspired them. I also enjoy bar class, yoga, singing, hanging out with my neighbors and of course love the company of all furry children (dogs/cats)!

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

That’s a tough one! I have been modeling for over a decade and I have had the opportunity to work with so many great clients. Without mentioning all the wonderful production teams and photographers I have worked with. I would definitely have to mention Hania by Anya Cole, Loro Piana, Nikon/Dixie Dixon, Gabriel & Co Jewelry, Maybelline and Zac Posen as a few of my favorites.

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

I would love to work with any brand that considers quality, care, dependability, attention to detail, authenticity and/or creativity as part of its core values.

5. Career highlights?

Wow there are so many! For print it has to be many of the ones I have already mentioned above but others include Kohls, Pella, Uniqlo, DHC, Crown Royal. Fit modeling has been another part of modeling that I have had the pleasure to part take in. Fitting for brands like Zac Posen, Minnie Rose and Yeon have been such a pleasure and I hope to continue doing more of it!

6. How did you get into modeling ?

I was actually scouted as a model after a middle school band rehearsal by Tia Reagan. I did my first several photoshoots and bookings through her and I credit her and photographer Tanja Lippert, for getting me started and giving me a good mindset for the business.

 

Fit Model of the Month- Chrisandra Wells

We are thrilled to have our star, Chrisandra Wells for the second time around, as our October Model of the Month. From fitting with clients like One Jeans Group and Aerie, Chrisandra continues to show love and devotion to the industry!

 

 

 

1. Where you are from?

I am from Omaha, Nebraska and raised In the nearby town of Bellevue but have been a New Yorker for 20 years and currently reside in Brooklyn.

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

I am very interested in foreign language study and travel! Researching family genealogy and organizing family events is something I have taken a liking to as well. I love my career as a Fit model and working with such a diverse group of designers who are making clothes available in plus sizes.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

I enjoy working with all the different clients I currently fit for and becoming accustomed to their needs.

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

I make sure to update my client list regularly on LinkedIn and it is so exciting to see that I have about 30 Fit clients on my resume. My goal is to maintain high standard of professionalism as a model and get as many opportunities that I can!

5. Career highlights?

Doing showroom for Studio Levana for NYBFW was absolutely amazing. I also had the opportunity to travel China as Eloquii’s Fit model a few years ago.

6. How did you get into modeling ?

I have always loved the drama of makeup and the camera since an early age. I began booking work freelancing and soon after got signed causing me to get consistent modeling work. It makes me so happy to be able to meet the needs of plus sized consumers each time I go to work.

 

 

 

 

Fashion Model of the Month – Deja Ware

 We are excited to announce our new star, Deja, as our October Model of the Month. This Brooklyn native has a promising career ahead of her whether it be in modeling or trailblazing in the creation of spaces for artists, photographers and models alike. Continue reading to find out more about Deja’s journey into modeling and much more!

1. Where you are from?

I am a Brooklyn native born and raised in Bay Ridge.

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

All my life I have always endeavored in some sort of creative expression, singing, song writing, dancing, drawing and painting. I went to Talent Unlimited High School as a vocalist and in turn was trained in music theory, music notation, piano and took master classes for classical music/ opera. With all the school plays, I was also required to take dance and acting classes. I love all of these but within the last two years I have been into visual arts as I started painting.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

I just signed with Bicoastal a few weeks ago and I  am manifesting it for the near future!

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

Clients I would love to work with include Prada, Dior, YSL Versace, Alexander Wang, Betsy Johnson, Coco Chanel and so many more!

5. Career highlights?

I am pretty new to the industry but before modeling I interned as an assistant stylist for Vogue Paris. I got the chance to work on bridal and couture sets, which was amazing! It was so inspiring to see the amount of effort that goes into a cover shot and seeing the model effortlessly was amazing. After that I was on a mission to be that girl!

6. How did you get into modeling ?

For a while people were telling me that I should be a model but never had the confidence to do so. It wasn’t until a good friend of mine got into photography and I was able to get in front of the camera that I realized I was a natural. I love to be in front of the camera and expressing myself. Like Beyoncé I feel an alter ego turn on when I’m on set and I want to be that girl all the time.

Fit Model of the Month – Shyendra

We are thrilled to have our star on the rise, Shyendra Chandrasena, as our September Model of the Month. From fitting with clients like Calvin Kleins and Bombas, Shyendra continues to show love and devotion to the industry!

 

 

1. Where you are from?

Palm Springs, California

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

Well for starters I am currently studying theatre, which has been so exciting as I am delving into my passion for acting and writing. I love to play basketball and football whenever I have the time to do so. Traveling is also a passion of mine, I have had the privilege to visit so many places. My favorite countries that I have visited are Croatia, Japan and Oman. I volunteer with Veteran organizations whenever I get the chance to, taking into account that I was in the Coast Guard for 4 years, stationed in DC.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

Taking into account that I am fairly new to the industry, I am happy to say that amongst my favorite clients Calvin Klein is one of them! I also really enjoyed doing Fit for Bombas and doing a campaign for Smile Direct Club. 

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

My dreams are to have an original play by me produced and to star in something I have written. I would love to continue modeling for more brands and expand my portfolio.

5. Career highlights?

Definitely seeing my face and smile on billboards for Smile Direct Club all over New York was amazing. Being able to be a part of Calvin Klein’s mens denim fit clinic was pretty cool too!

6. How did you get into modeling ?

I got in to modeling because a friend told me I should try. I never saw myself modeling before but now that I am completely immersed in it, I am in love.

 

Fashion Model of the Month – Dujonette

We are thrilled to have our fashion star, Dujonette, as our September Model of the Month. From Florida to Cape Town  to New York Dujonette’s modeling career has sky rocketed. She stormed in NYFW SS20, walking for designers like Raissa & Vanessa and opening for Studio 189, which was featured in Vogue!  Continue reading to find out more about Dujonette’s endeavors in the fashion industry.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 10: A model walks the runway for Studio 189 during New York Fashion Week: The Shows at Gallery I at Spring Studios on September 10, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows)

1. Where you are from?

I was born in Spanish Town, Jamaica but grew up in Orlando, Florida!

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

Before modeling I wanted to be a lawyer, so I majored in Political Science in college but then decided to pursue modeling instead of going to law school! When I am not working, I am doing Pilates- I started a few years ago and have become hooked! At some point I would like to get certified to teach as well.

 

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

I always have a great time when I’m on set so I don’t want to say I have a favorite client. Being at Guess studio in California was definitely a highlight though!

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

I would love to work with Versace, Chanel and Victoria Secret. Of course runway is something I want to keep doing in the future.

5. Career highlights?

Shooting for Guess and have the opportunity to meet Paul Marciano was an amazing experience. Getting to do a Dodge ad was different for me but so much fun! Doing a shoot with Sports Illustrated was a great experience as well!

6. How did you get into modeling ?

All my life I have been tall and skinny- everyone always told me I should model. One day an agency in Florida discovered me and the rest is history!

Fashion and Fit Model of the Month – Nofar

We are thrilled to have our fashion star on the rise, Nofar Avigdor, as our August Model of the Month. Soccer player turned model, Nofar has a decade of experience in the industry working for clients like Estée Lauder, Bobby Brown and L’ANZA . Continue reading to find out more about Nofar’s invigorating experience in the world of fashion!

 

 

1. Where you are from?

I was born in Jerusalem, Israel but I have lived in New York most of my life.

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

I love life and learning as much as I can brings me great joy. I am into dancing and currently am learning Salsa! I engage in tons of physical activity such as yoga, Muay Thai and swimming. I am also studying to be a doctor.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

Oh this is a hard question to answer. I feel like every client has their own special magic and connection. There are clients that repeatedly bring me back because they don’t only love the outcome, they love the environment we foster.

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

I have so many goals and I want to do it all. My goal in life is to become a surgeon but of course also to be a more well-known model. I dream of closing a big international campaign.

 

5. Career highlights?

I have been a model for 10 years now. I have enjoyed doing NYFW runway walks for known designers in Lincoln center, did a Bobby Brown 20th anniversary shoot, worked with Estée Lauder, Smashbox, and traveled the world with L’ANZA. I have had the pleasure to be fit model with some of my favorite companies such as Mara Hoffman, Theory and Uniqlo. I have been really blessed in my modeling career and can’t wait to create more of these special moments.

6. How did you get into modeling ?

This is a funny story actually. I have been a soccer player for most of my life and in turn didn’t really feel like a pretty girl because I grew up in a family full of beautiful women. At one point I was a waitress and my best friend was modeling at the time and told me me to try it. She set up a test shoot for me, dressed me up and even had a make up artist for me. As soon as I was in front of the camera I felt as if I belonged. I fell in love and from there I did not stop learning and growing into what I am today. Life is really beautiful when you seize opportunities that come your way. Biggest lesson I have learned is to never give up and there is always more to learn about this beautiful crazy industry.

 

Fit Model of the Month – Robbie B

We are thrilled to have our star on the rise, Robbie Briskie, as our July Model of the Month. From fitting with clients like Republic Clothing to 2(X)IST, Robbie continues to show love and devotion to the industry!

 

 

1. Where you are from?

The capital of New York- Albany, NY.

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

Ever since I was younger, my mother who’s always ran marathons and races inspired me to turn my hobby of running into a competitive sport. This caused me to join many track & field teams and cross country, leading me to go to college for it. I also love to kayak, swim, and hike, as living right outside the Adirondack mountain park makes it easy! I also went to school for criminology and was a crime mapper for a couple years until I started modeling.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

My favorite client are by far Spencer’s Gifts and Spirit Halloween… they’re the nicest mix of individuals who create a beautiful family dynamic and I love Halloween costumes! Also 2(X)IST was tons of fun too!

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

My dreams are to travel around the world competing in triathlons, surrounded by friends and family, and living a comfortable life… I’m a pretty simple guy.

5. Career highlights?

I was shipped out to Zürich, Switzerland, to work for a ski brand. I ended up staying at the Matterhorn Ski and Snowboarding Resort. It was all-around such a great experience!

6. How did you get into modeling ?

It was a complete random chain of events that lead me to modeling. My friend was looking for someone to work on a Polaroid Sunglass Campaign and I was chosen to work on this project in Venice, California. From there, I was scouted and the rest is history!

 

Fashion Model of the Month – Carty

We are thrilled to have our fashion/commercial star on the rise, Carty Caruso, as our July Model of the Month. From juggling his acting career to modeling for clients like Instagram, American Apparel, and Macy’s, Carty juggles many talents. Continue reading to find out more about Carty’s ventures in the entertainment industry!

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1. Where you are from?

I am a New Yorker! I’ve lived all around the city and Westchester, but really when people ask, I just say NYC.

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

Hip Hop is the love of my life.  I am currently recording my first mixtape; I have been collaborating with many of my friends who are also passionate about the craft. Besides keeping up with the latest music, I am also an avid gamer. My favorite games of all time are Super Smash Brothers, Halo 3, Skyrim… I could go on and on about all the things I love to do, but let me summarize instead. I drink the best coffee you have ever had, and I don’t settle for less. I try to keep up with my style, and I have been making my own jewelry lately. I want to finish school sometime when modeling and acting calms down, my dream would be receiving a degree in Astrophysics.

3. Favorite clients from the biz? 

My favorite clients would definitely be all the casting directors I have gotten to know over the years: Wulf, Nina Goldman, Grande Morris, and of course Eric Cano, just to name a few. I have also become family friends with Victor De Souza and Jerome Lamar.  I try to treat everyone equally in my life, so it’s hard to choose favorites from over the years. Recently, I was on the hit Chinese TV show Over the Sea I Come to You, which was a great experience, but that’s a story for another time.

4. Dreams/goals any thing else of interest (any other dream clients?)?

I would like a Prada resort campaign, to be the face of Tom Ford’s cologne range, be featured as the cover of V Man magazine… is that enough ambition for you? I’d also love Hedi Slimane to create his next pair of skinny jeans exactly to my body specifications.

5. Career highlights?

Seeing myself on every Sky train platform in Bangkok was surreal for sure!  Billboards are always fantastic, but what’s ultimately even more fulfilling is creating some really unique and downright beautiful images with a creative team… even if it pays less.

6. How did you get into modeling ?

Long story short, I got signed to my first agency after finishing my acting conservatory back in 2016, but they mismanaged me so I ended up going independent for the next year or so. I met with BICOASTAL MGMT after months of trying to get signed elsewhere, and Malissa and the team immediately got me to work. In 2018, I left for Thailand and spent 3 months working in Bangkok. I spent the rest of the year doing television in China before coming home and making big moves this year.  This has definitely been my best year yet and I don’t plan on slowing down any time soon!