January Fit Model of the Month – Karen Clark.

Happy New Year-both Gregorian and Lunar!! We are excited to announce Karen as our January Fit Model of the Month. Karen is a professionally trained cellist, technical design student at FIT, and a popular fit model among many of our clients. Continue reading to learn more about Karen:

1. Where are you from?

I am from Colombia, I was born and grew up in Medellin, a beautiful city nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its almost perfect weather all year round.

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

I have a BS in Music Cello performance; I started playing cello when I was 11 years old and worked as a cellist and music instructor for long time. I’m passionate about music, art and fashion, and started a second bachelor’s degree in Technical Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology. So far, I am learning tons and enjoying every single step of this journey. My hobbies also include exercising, traveling, getting to know different cultures, and visiting new restaurants and eating delicious food.

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?

Working as a fit model has given me the opportunity to get to know the fashion industry and enjoy relationships with the creative and technical design teams from each brand. Madewell, J.Crew, Guess and COACH are great! I feel really lucky to have worked with such wonderful and talented people.

4. Dreams/goals, anything else of interest?

My main goal right now is to continue learning at FIT, developing new abilities and skills that help me bring more value to my job. I would also love to work with other brands like Everlane, Alice and Olivia, DKNY and Reformation.

 5. Fit/modeling career highlights?

I always look forward to each fitting, it is the highlight of my day because I love what I do.

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

I came to live in New York in 2017.  At that time I was working as a cello instructor but I wanted to have a side job in fashion. A close friend who worked as a pattern-maker for Macy’s told me that I had the right measurements to become a Fit model, I did not know what it was but I did what she suggested and I went to BICOASTAL MGMT where they helped me get my first Client: Madewell! (Thanks Macy’s friend for the referral!!-@bicoastalmgmt)

November Fit Model of the Month – Bryan F.

We are thrilled to have Bryan as our November Fit Model of the Month! Bryan is an actor, film-maker, and has been a popular slim/euro fit for several brands! Continue reading to learn more about Bryan:

1. Where are you from?

I am from New York. I grew up on Long Island and have lived in the city since right after high-school.

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

I love staying active and doing things like playing guitar and chess, going hiking and foraging for mushrooms, working out and doing yoga. I’m also an actor and filmmaker and love being a part of making films and television happen.

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?

Coach has been my favorite fit client. I’ve also loved working with Mark Jacobs, PVH, and The Row.

4. Dreams/goals, anything else of interest?

One of my goals is to start tackling my first feature film project of the three I am developing. 

 5. Fit/modeling career highlights?

Working with The Row alongside a designer from France and the Olsen twins, and having an entire line fit to me was a highlight!

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

I totally fell into it. Bicoastal sent me on a fit casting and it worked out! I wasn’t even really aware of it before then, but I really enjoy it so I’m grateful for the opportunity.

October Fit Model of The Month – Lauren S

We are so excited to have Lauren S as our October Model of the Month. Lauren is a total pro of a fit model and a total gem of a human being. She is a plant whisperer, travel enthusiast, and so much more. Continue reading to find out more about Lauren.

Where are you from?

I grew up in a rural part of New Jersey, and believe it or not, I passed cows on my way to high school. After graduating college, I moved to Manhattan in 2015. I currently reside in Greenpoint Brooklyn and feel so at home in this neighborhood!

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

Besides a fit model, I am also a horticulturist (aka. crazy plant lady). I started my own business during covid, Channel Green (channelgreen.me), providing plant design, installation, and maintenance throughout the city. I also really enjoy up-cycling clothes and sewing/embroidery. I am a chronic hobbyist. 

Favorite fit clients from the biz?

My favorite fit client is Marc Jacobs. They are a true pleasure to work with: super professional, intelligent, caring, and I love their new Heaven line. I also love working with Lysse, they were one of my first fit clients and still feel like family after all these years.

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

I feel extremely fortunate to say that I am currently living my dream– life is so good and I wouldn’t change a thing!

My list of goals is ever-evolving. I want to visit at least one new country every year (next up: India, Brazil, and Mexico). I also have a Vipassana Meditation course abroad on my bucket list. 

Fit/modeling career highlights?

One fit moment I’ll always remember was with Zac Posen himself and his team. I was fitting a gorgeous deep red ball gown with a corset, full bustle, and long train. I felt like a princess. 

I mean.. when else do you have the opportunity to wear a ball gown??

How did you get into fit modeling?

I was working at an ad agency out of college that shared an office with a print studio for modeling comp cards. My friend/coworker sent my info to Bicoastal Mgmt and the rest is history! 

It will be 8 years this January that I am signed with Bicoastal. I love the team so so so much and couldn’t picture my life without them. 

September Fit Model of the Month – Georgia J

We are so excited to have Georgia J as our September Model of the Month! Georgia is a sailor, a sommelier, and a popular fit model! Continue reading to learn more about Georgia.

Where are you from?
A little bit of of everywhere! I grew up on St.Croix in the Virgin Islands then relocated to San Antonio as a kid with a few years in Arizona and a short stint in Indiana. I’ve also spent a few years living on a sailboat in the Mediterranean with my family. But New York has been my home for the past 8 years 

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

I’m madly in love with the ocean. Growing up spending everyday in the water really shaped my appreciation for the outdoors and nature. I spend a lot of time sailing and traveling. While I’m here in the city I work as a sommelier and spend some time upstate fly fishing when I can.

Favorite fit clients from the biz?

It sounds cliché but I have genuinely enjoyed every client I’ve worked with! From my early days with Tommy Hilfiger and DL1961 to my more recent clients Chaus and Studio Nazar.

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

I really enjoy getting to be at multiple ends of the industry- in the fitting room and in front of the camera. As a model, I have always wanted to book a job that I had also been the fit model on! I’ve seen it happen so it’s definitely on my goals list. 

Fit/modeling career highlights?

I was a fit model and stand in for the Coach digital fashion presentation of NWFW F/W 2020. It was an incredibly interesting and exciting experience to be a part of especially since the process was still early on in the pandemic. Additionally, it be able to represent plus size bodies in high end fashion was fulfilling and reenergized my hope for the future of the industry. More plus size bodies everywhere!!!

July Fit Model of the Month – Valery L

We are so happy to have ultra-talented Valery as our Fit Model of the Month for July! Valery is an actress, a filmmaker, and recently popular as a contemporary fit model! Continue reading to learn more about Valery.

1. Where are you from?

I am from Montreal, Canada.

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

I am an actress and a filmmaker with my own production company alongside my partner. I am also very much into watercolor painting, am a plant mom, and obsessed with chocolate (shout out to Tony’s Chocolonely!)

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?

Coach is one of my favorite clients. They are so welcoming and loving. I also love my experience working with GAP and American Eagle.

4. Dreams/goals, anything else of interest?

Our latest short film has yet to premiere. It is about grief, mental health and how we all need a hug- titled “Les Câlins Cheaps” (Cheap Hugs). We have a goal of having our premiere at Sundance Film Festival. This short film is really important for us, and we believe it has the capacity to create a positive wave of kindness and compassion. 

Another big goal would be to collaborate with Machine Gun Kelly on a film project. I already have created a TV pilot concept inspired by him. 

5. Modeling career highlights?

My biggest modeling highlights are as a parts model- my favorite was hand modeling for Celine Dion. I have also worked for many dream brands such as Hermes, La Mer, Vogue Italia, Stuart Weitzman, Balenciaga, Dolce & Gabbana, Steve Madden, Godiva, Essie, and Victoria Beckham (Spice Girls, woooo!!)

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

I discovered the world of fit modeling via Bicoastal! I am so grateful to them for that. I’ve always loved fashion, and really love and respect the whole process of making garments. 

June Fit Model of the Month – Jarred H

We are so excited to have Jarred as our Fit Model of the Month! Jarred is not new to modeling but recently has gained traction in the Fit market now. We are so happy to have Jarred on our Fit roster and excited to introduce him to you!

Where are you from?

Born and raised in Atlanta Georgia. I went to business school at the University of Georgia and once graduated I came to New York City to enroll in acting school and to model.

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

Some things that I’m into are filmmaking, poetry, rapping, and photography. I love expression through creative endeavors. Whether it be through photos, the written word, or motion picture. 

Favorite fit clients from the biz?

Calvin Klein has been such a great and consistent client to work for. Whenever I go in for a fitting it always feels like a collaborative experience where I get the pleasure of seeing these creative professionals discuss and make decisions on fashion pieces that I will get to see on shelves in stores!

Dreams/goals, anything else of interest?

I have many aspiring goals with my filmmaking, acting, and musical career. Along with those goals, working with great fit clients that innovate fashion is always such a pleasure.

Fit/modeling career highlights?

I would say that my highlight of working in the fit modeling world is with Calvin Klein and their great team. 

How did you get into fit modeling?

I got into fit modeling once I joined with BiCoastal Management. They gave me the courage and idea to pursue fit modeling seriously and it has gone great so far! 

May Model of the Month – Shenelle

We are thrilled to have Shenelle as our May Model of the Month – Shenelle is not new to modeling but has recently gained traction in the Fit market in the New Year! We are so happy to have Shenelle on our roster, and we’re excited to introduce her to you!

1. Where are you from? I was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ and have lived through out the state all of my life. Growing up people were always curious about where I am from because my last name is French  and it actually came from my grandfather. A WWII vet, born in Martinique and later emigrated to the US.  2. What you are into… studies, hobbies, special skills etc..? I’ve recently gotten out of my comfort zone and learned how to ride a motorcycle!! In my spare time, I enjoy roller skating, making jewelry with crystals, and exploring learning opportunities that will allow me to further my education in the supply chain & logistics industry.

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?
My most memorable Fit clients are Rebdolls and OJG! I felt comfortable expressing my opinion and providing feedback to both clients.  I also enjoyed working with the Fashion Design students at Marist and seeing all the hard work in bringing their designs to life. 

4. Dreams/goals, anything else of interest (any fit dream clients?)?  
It would be a dream to fit for Lane Bryant! I would love to be a voice over actor, model for plus designers in NYFW, featured in a sci-fi movie with zombies and continue to work towards my career and personal goals. 

5. Fit/modeling career highlights?
The highlight of my journey thus far is landing the opportunity to be a “model nurse” for a Pharma company. 

6. How did you get into fit modeling?
A really good friend shared a casting call from another modeling agency looking for Fit models! And the rest is herstory! 

April Model of the Month – Matt K.

We are thrilled to have Matt as our April Model of the Month! Starting off as an in-house fit model, Matt has now gained additional fit experience as well as branched out into many new areas of modeling including Print and Commercial. We are so excited to have Matt on our board and look forward to seeing what is to come!

1. Where are you from?

I am from Troy, NY and I currently live in Union City, NJ which is just minutes from NYC!

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

Interior design has always been a passion of mine as well as upcycling discarded furniture and items. I love breathing new life into objects and sometimes creating completely new and unexpected things from them. I have several pieces of furniture and décor I have created this way and love that they are all unique.

3. Favorite fit clients from the biz?

EXPRESS. Everyone I have worked with there has been super helpful in building my fit modeling career and I have learned a lot from them. Memorizing terms and vernacular is important, but they don’t really sink in until they are put to use and you really see how clothing is supposed to fit.

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

I would love to work with Calvin Klein. It’s the brand that I remember most as a child and is the one that still resonates with me today. I love that their clothes can range from casual to professional and it would be a dream to fit for them or be in one of their campaigns.

5. Fit/modeling career highlights?

I love the diversity of projects in my modeling career. Some highlights include a commercial for a vitamin brand, e-comm shoots for various clothing brands, print, and of course fit! I particularly find fit a useful tool in my everyday life. I use what I have learned to help me pick out clothes that actually fit correctly.

6. How did you get into fit modeling?

I used to work in a small store in Hell’s Kitchen, NYC. They would have some of their clothes custom made and they would often use me to fit the items. I didn’t know anything about fit modeling at the time but I have been pursuing it as a career ever since.

March Model of the Month – Erika Nova

This month’s Model of the Month is the beautiful and experienced Erika Nova! Starting off as a runway and print model, Erika now finds herself with a handful of consistent fit clients, including Aerie, Hanky Panky, American Eagle and more! Keep reading to learn more about Erika and how she got started.

Where are you from?

I was born in Miami, FL and have been living in NYC for over a decade.

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

Though I obtained my bachelors degree in Broadcast & Print Journalism, my dream was always to become a model and artist. While going to school, I got my start as a Runway model in South Florida doing shows for Chanel, Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen and other top designers. It was when I moved to NYC that I expanded into the Fit, Print and Commercial world, recently booking a National Commercial for Burlington which gave me the opportunity to begin my acting career and the ability to become a member of SAG-AFTRA. I speak fluent Spanish and am currently working on perfecting my French. 

Favorite fit clients from the biz?

American Eagle, Aerie and Hanky Panky are just a few of the fit clients that have been a dream to work with! From the moment I met each tech team at Aerie and American Eagle, each and every person has been incredibly kind, respectful and just wonderful to work with. I especially love how the Aerie and AE teams have been so willing to share feedback with me or help me whenever I have a concern or question. They are really caring, and always take the time to help which only enables me to become a better fit model. 

Dreams/goals, anything else of interest? Any fit dream clients?

Although I’m sure it’s every model’s dream, I would love to fit and shoot for Victoria’s Secret! This has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. Now that they have become more size inclusive, I feel like I got a shot!  

Fit/modeling career highlights?

One fit modeling experience highlight that I’ll always cherish was a time I had been the showroom/print model for a NYC ready-to-wear designer for a few years, and suddenly they realized I fit the clothes so well, they had me start fitting for them as well. Needless to say, they kept me really busy shooting their lookbooks, and doing their fit and showroom work. Walking the runway at dozens of NYFW shows have also become some of the highlights of my career as a model. 

How did you get into fit modeling?

I will forever be grateful for the bridal lingerie designer ‘The Giving Bride’ who gave me the opportunity to fit and shoot her collections over a decade ago in NYC. It was because of her that I got my start as a fit model which led me to BiCoastal Management, and the ability to work with so many more wonderful clients, big and small. 

January Model of the Month -Alaina F

We are thrilled to have Fit model, Alaina F, as our January Model of the Month! Alaina is not new to modeling but recently has gained traction in the Fit market now in the new year. We are so happy to have Alaina on our Fit roster and excited to introduce her to you!

1. Where are you from?
I was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, but grew up in Boulder County, Colorado (a mountain girl). I moved to Brooklyn in 2010.

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

I got my B.A. in Music Composition and Creative Writing, and my M.F.A. in Poetry. When I’m not modeling, I am writing music for contemporary opera and choirs. I play classical piano (I’ve been playing my whole life), Celtic harp, speak French, love to rock climb and do yoga. I’m passionate about cooking — both for the pleasure of it, and as a means of having a direct hand in my health.

3. Favorite clients from the biz?
Christopher John Rogers is my first repeat fit client and it has been a dream so far! I have already learned so much and truly aspire to continue growing.

4. Dream clients, goals, or anything else of interest?
Nili Lotan, Rag and Bone, Oscar de la Renta, Christine Alcalay and Marchesa to name a few.

5. Fit/modeling career highlights?
I just finished a round of developmental/production fit modeling with Christopher John Rogers! What an incredible experience — his team is focused, thoughtful, and kind. I loved how everything was considered — fabric consumption, technique, the garment’s functionality, the vision of the piece, and the narrative amongst the pieces. It felt very much akin to constructing a piece of music — weighing the performer’s ability with the desired emotional experience of the music itself, the venue where it will be performed, and the timeline for creation. 

6. How did you get into modeling? 
I became a model out of a natural interest in fashion. When I moved to New York in 2010, I walked into Joanna Baum’s storefront in Williamsburg, Sir, and loved how her clothing was tailored and elegant. It was thoughtful clothing! I asked right then if we could do a modeling trade, and then ended up doing some catalogue shoots for her. Similarly, I found Rebecca Shoneveld at an eco-conscious bridal pop-up, she later asked me to do showroom modeling. Rebecca introduced me to Zero Waste Daniel, who let me borrow some of his recycled dresses for my music performances. I’ve mostly worked with smaller boutique designers because I love the down-to-earth, collaborative experience — my clients are people who are passionate in their work and prioritize treating their people well. I also have done some commercial acting — the most recent was a spot in an American Express commercial.