NOW CASTING: ALEXIS JAYE SUNDMAN
FROM OFF-WHITE TO IN-N-OUT, MEET YOUR NEW FAVORITE GIRL
BY ABRAHAM MARTINEZ
APR 3, 2018
The past year has been pretty crazy for Alexis Jaye Sundman. Twelve months ago, she was attending high school in conservative Oklahoma, where she was an active member of both the Young Democrats club and Gay-Straight Student Alliance. Refusing to adapt to the small-minded attitudes of her peers, she became determined to find her escape, and that came in the form of a local modeling competition. She signed with Next Management and Freedom Models LA, which then led to an insane runway debut at
Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2018, where she walked for Chloé, Off-White, Paco Rabanne, and Giambattista Valli.
CR caught up with Sundman to talk about diversity in the industry, her love of dogs, and where to find the best burger.
What were the highlights of Paris Fashion Week debut?
Off-White was a really cool show. Everyone backstage was super chill, playing upbeat music. It wasn't like one of those really stressful shows where they're yelling at everyone. I think my favorite part about Paris is the food. Even though it's very high-carb, you can't avoid it.
What has been your take on the industry and their approach to diversity?
It's getting better model-wise but there still needs to be work done, like having people on set that know how to do black hair or black makeup. But I do appreciate that it's getting a lot more diverse and inclusive of every race like Asian, Hispanic....
How would you describe LA versus New York?
I love L.A.—it's my sweet vacation away from home. The weather is always 72 degrees. I love the beach. New York is a bit more fast-paced. You can get stuff done really quick. It's very eccentric.
What’s your go-to outfit?
If I'm just chilling, I like wearing baggy jeans and a nice sweatshirt, but accessorized with some cool jewelry. Maybe some Air Force 1s. If I'm going out, a really nice ankle boot, maybe a low-cut top that's still kind of silky and flared pants.
Are you a morning person? Or are you more of a night owl?
Oh, definitely not a morning person. Not at all! If you wake me up before I planned on waking up, it's a no-go. I'm such a night owl. I'll be out all night and I won't be tired.
What’s the one song you can't get out of your head right now?
"Under Pressure" by David Bowie and Queen. I've been listening to that nonstop. It's been stuck in my head, so catchy.
Is there a movie that gets you every time you watch it?
The movie
I Am Legend. The scene where he has to kill his dog; it's the saddest movie scene ever. I [always] know what's gonna happen, but it gets me every time.
Who makes the best burger?
Shake Shack, In-N-Out is overrated but still good, Steak-N-Shake—it's like a midwest thing—Black Top, and Ruby's in the East Village.
What's your favorite way to spend your downtime?
I like writing. I never write to share, it's for myself. I have like four or five journals that are full. I try to write a variation of things.
What are you most thankful for?
I'm thankful for a lot. Having good parents, my friends, and my agencies. I'm thankful for all the love.
Interview With New Model Alexis Jaye Sundman - Casting Call With Alexis Jaye Sundman