Alessandra DiMaria, a 20 year-old fashion model with an already impressive portfolio has big hopes and aspirations for the future. A natural beauty of near mythical proportions, Alessandra exudes a professionalism beyond her years and a personal drive that will serve her well in the pursuit of her dreams. The Levity Ball is honored to introduce this rising star to the national stage and was graced to learn more from Alessandra DiMaria herself. One thing is certain, whether it’s now or later, you will remember that name.
How would you describe your professional interests?
I would say my interests such as modeling and acting, revolve around what makes me feel confident. I love getting in front of the camera and being able to express myself through poses or through different roles.
What’s your background in modeling?
My background in modeling is mainly modeling for smaller clothing brands around the country.
When and why did you get started? Was it for the glamour? The money? Pure kicks?
I got started in modeling about two and a half years. Originally, my main focus was acting, but as I met new people in the industry such as photographers, I asked if I could do a quick shoot with them and from then on, I fell in love with the art of modeling. I model for the pure happiness it brings me every time I am in front of the camera.
Who are some of your favorite models and designers, and why?
Two of my favorite models are Kendell Jenner and Cara Delevingne because they are both comfortable in their own skin and really could not careless what people say about them. I also find them both to be very humble. Honestly, I do not have a favorite fashion designer. I think all fashion is beautiful and all designers have their own creative strategy to create their own fashion. With that being said, I think all designers are great.
Which fashion magazines, websites, blogs, and catalogs do you visit most often?
I am not one to go out and get a particular magazine, but I do enjoy reading Vogue. I find everything in that magazine to be interesting. As far as websites and blogs go, I do not really go to one in particular. If I want to buy a certain type of clothing, I will just google the item and see what results I get.
What’s your fashion mantra?
My fashion mantra is definitely to make an outfit look simple and make me feel comfortable while making feel confident.
How would you describe your style? Consider anything and everything from color to historical eras and more.
Let’s see, I would describe my style as casual/urban. I really love the urban look with the long t-shirts and ripped jeans. I also love the plaid look with some combat boots. That I would say is my go to outfit. Combat Boots are probably my favorite kind of boots. I also love snapbacks!
Where do you generally shop?
I love shopping at Forever 21 and recently started shopping at Zumiez. They both have great clothing for my casual/urban look.
What other modeling projects have you done? Could you provide links?
Most of my modeling is done through social media by modeling off clothing for certain brands. Here is a link to my website: http://www.alessandradimaria.com
Out of all of the photos the photographer took of you, which is your favorite and why?
I really like the photos that were taken outside. I love nature and even the city. There is really nothing better than having natural lighting to me.
What is fun and rewarding about modeling?
Knowing that I can just be myself and finding true happiness is rewarding enough for me.
What advice do you have for other aspiring models?
The advice I have for aspiring models is to go for it! Find out what kind of poses you like to do or where you like to shoot. I would also get some friends to take pictures of you to get more practice. Definitely do not feel as though you cannot be a model because you don’t have a particular look. The truth is everybody has his or her own look that makes them unique, so do not hold back on doing what you aspire to do.
How do you prepare for a modeling shoot?
To prepare for a shoot, I will make sure my outfits are picked out a couple of days before the actual shoot. Other than that, I honestly do not do much because the more I think about it, the more I get nervous. When you’re in front of the camera, you want to be as natural and comfortable as possible.
How would you describe working with the photographer?
It was very easy and we hit it off great. I understood what look he was going for and he understood what look I was going for. Overall, very great!
What makes a stylish lady or man? Is there a difference?
I main thing that makes a stylish lady or man is confidence. If he or she knows they own it and think an outfit looks good on them, then that is all that matters. I do not think there is a difference between a stylish lady or a man because confidence is in both!
Who are some of your favorite fashion photographers? (They do not have to be famous.)
I really like Tyler Shields. I think his work is unique and very intriguing. It is definitely different than most.
What does fashion mean to you?
To me, fashion means a way to express who you are.
What distinguishes a good model from a bad one?
I do not think there are any bad models. Each model has his or her own style. What people find interesting in one person, they might not find it in another model. It all depends on what suits you as the model.
What distinguishes a good photograph from a bad one?
Again, photography is also the same. Every photographer has his or her own way of shooting. It is an art and everyone’s creative style make photography so amazing.
What are some things you dislike/hate about the fashion industry?
The main thing I dislike about the fashion industry is that there is still this pressure for a model to be thin. Even though the industry is changing a little in regards to that, there is still a lot of modeling agencies that put their models on diets just to make clothes look right on them. I do not condone that.
How has modeling changed other aspects of your life?
Modeling has made me a more confident person. There is no doubt about that. It has also given me the courage to step out of my comfort zone and grow as a person.
What’s your favorite outfit from your own closet? Do you have your own personal uniform?
Oh boy, let’s see. I would have to say my favorite outfit is my light blue ripped skinny jeans, white v-neck, and leather jacket. Slip on a pair of combat boots and I am out the door.
Describe the atmosphere when you’re on a shoot. Do you play music? If so what?
I actually don’t play music, but I’m thinking about playing some on my next shoot. The atmosphere is really relaxed and I like to make jokes a lot while I’m shooting to keep me feeling content.
Tell us about yourself: Why do you want to work as a model? Why are you interested in this Career? What led you to apply for this job?
I like the confidence modeling brings to me. By working, it helps me meet new people and share certain connections. I am interested in modeling, along with acting because I feel like they bring out the best side of me. I would love to inspire others and let them know that anything can happen if they take action towards their goals. That’s what I did, and slowly things are happening and it feels wonderful.
Tell us about your education?
I am currently a college student majoring in business administration. I am in my senior year and aiming for a Bachelor’s in Business Administration.
Why would you think you’re fit for being a model?
I wouldn’t say I’m fit for being a model because I don’t think there is a certain criteria for a model. I think I am one because I let my emotions come out in pictures in a certain way that people can relate.
What are your goals as a model? How do you see yourself progress in this field?
I have two main goals. One is that I would love to be in catalogues, along with magazines. Two, I would just inspire people to not give up on what they believe. I know many people say that, but it is so true. Nothing would ever get done if somebody does not take action. The way I see myself progressing is by keep meeting new people in the industry, keep doing what I’m doing and searching for my next move.
What do you know about the advertisement industry, advertising psychology and photography?
I know that advertising has a lot to do with a person’s psychology. The advertisement industry’s job is to make a picture of a product look delicious or spectacular. Even though that may not be the case, advertising sometimes portrays things to be better than their actuality.
What is your nutrition? How often do you go to the gym?
This is one of my favorite questions because I believe in healthy eating and living. I will have at least three or four fruits or vegetables daily. I constantly drink water throughout the day. I also love to make smoothies. I’ll just add fruit and water! I also love working out. I do not go to the gym, but I own a punching bag that I use often. I will also go for runs around my neighborhood and get my arms/leg workouts in with the weights I have at my house. Plus, I love playing sports!
