by MIKE CHAIKEN
CTFashionMag.com
“Model Confidential” is a series where we meet the people who make the clothes come alive.
Name: Adrianna DellaValle
Age: 18
Home: Prospect, Conn.
Why do you like modeling?
I started modeling as a shy 12-year-old who was terribly afraid to break out of her shell. For me, modeling allowed me to become the confident and outgoing person that I had always aspired to be. I am forever grateful for the makeup lessons, acting classes, posing sessions, and constant interviews that turned the girl who could never imagine speaking in class to the girl who can never stop raising her hand. I have always had a love for art because of my talented mother/ graphic designer who raised me to express my creativity and love art. Modeling is an incredible form of art that is empowering for the model and rewarding for all members of the team. The photographer, directors, stylists, and designers behind all of the magic collaborate and create a beautiful masterpiece that always amazes me every single time I see a photograph. I am beyond in love with the rush before I step onto a runway or get behind a camera anticipating the final product. The feeling of a successful photoshoot or show is incomparable to any other feeling in the world because I am so in love with modeling and the wonderful fashion industry.
Your fashion icons and why?
Asking a fashion student to choose who her fashion icons are is a difficult question considering that I’m inspired by everyone I meet in this industry. However, a major fashion icon for me is Coco Chanel. This strong and talented woman managed to spark a fashion evolution for women and encouraged females to thrive in the workforce through her designs. Despite her background, Chanel was able to come from nothing and turn her dreams into an empire that continues to motivate women today. Without Chanel, not only would certain classics not exist, but women would have been without an inspirational fashion leader. Another fashion icon of mine has always been Tyra Banks. Not only did Tyra inspire the childhood version of myself to smize and be the best I could be, but she also served as a role model when pursuing my passion of modeling. Tyra tends to share her struggles through the fashion industry, which are extremely relatable for a petite size model. Tyra was shut down by numerous modeling agencies before finding that one person who would give her a shot. As a petite model, it has been a serious challenge entering the New York market place, but throughout my modeling career I have always envisioned Tyra Banks working for the same goal. In addition to relatability, Tyra is also down to earth and humble. At the beginning of my modeling journey, Tyra released her book called “Modelland.” She posted a competition on Twitter and whoever responded with the best comment about her recently posted excerpt would win a basket from her. I won the competition on Twitter and immediately received a new follower, Tyra Banks!! She sent me a big basket of prizes, but she also gave me the greatest piece of advice that I still think about before every photoshoot. Since Tyra followed me on Twitter, I was able to direct message her. After I received the basket, I thanked her and then attached a link with the pictures of my latest photoshoot. Tyra responded with feedback and I eventually began asking her questions and for tips and tricks to the “smize” and the perfect facial expression. I sent her a serious faced photograph and asked her how to make my face less angry looking and softer. Tyra told me that whenever you make a serious face, you want to avoid looking mean or angry and just simply think of rainbows, bunny rabbits, butterflies, and the color pink. To this day, every single serious face I make includes my subconscious thoughts of rainbows and bunny rabbits.
Describe your wardrobe choices when you’re not modeling.
When I’m not modeling, I usually wear comfortable and sporty clothing. I’m an athlete at the Fashion Institute of Technology, so I can usually be found in my comfy hoodies and yoga pants!
What’s your guilty pleasure?
SHOPPING!
The one thing you can never leave home without?
I can never leave home without my hair ties. Long hair is great until it’s EVERYWHERE.
Favorite music?
My favorite type of music is hip hop/rap.
Favorite food?
Sushi has always been my favorite food!
Measurements?
Bust: 32
Waist: 25
Hips: 33
How can someone book you? Portfolio website?
I can be booked through John Casablancas in Rocky Hill, CT.
860-563-5959
Johncasablancasct.com
Interested in being considered for “Model Confidential?” Answer the following questions and submit high-resolution photos of yourself. Make sure you have permission of the photographer and/or publication before sharing them with CTFashionMag.com
Name?
Age?
Home state?
Why do you like modeling?
Your fashion icons and why?
Your favorite designer and why?
Describe your wardrobe choices when you’re not modeling?
What’s your guilty pleasure?
The one thing you can never leave home without?
Favorite music?
Favorite food?
Measurements?
How can someone book you? Portfolio website?
Email answers and photographs to mchaiken@BristolObserver.com
