Harpers Bazaar UK
WATCH THIS FACE: AMELIA RAMI
We meet the 19-year-old Dominican new face...
Every week, Bazaar's booking team highlights one name to note, from the industry's best-known faces to girls who are just starting out. This week, we turn our attention to Amelia Rami.
Rami is charming the fashion circuit with her flawless skin, unmistakable cheekbones and sweet nature. The Dominican newcomer has already been recruited as the face of Vivienne Westwood, as well as racking up an impressive collection of editorial appearances.
"Amelia is effortlessly cool," says Josie Crawley at Elite London. "She is one of the most unique and interesting models I have seen in years." There is no doubt that the much sought-after, fresh-faced model from Elite London will win over the biggest names in the industry.
The 19-year-old has been catapulted to international success with brands such as Paul & Joe, Hogan, Iceberg and Max Mara all falling in her favour. We chat to the newcomer about being discovered, working with Juergen Teller, and having a good pair of jeans.
How were you discovered?
"I went to an open casting call in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and Sandro from Ossygeno Models chose to sign me to the agency. After that, he worked with me and gave me some training. Once he posted me on Instagram, the casting director Anita Bitton asked to hold me for a big job and the rest was history. I signed with Trump Models and moved to New York."
If you weren't modelling, what career would you pursue and why?
"Industrial Design. It was my first passion and I love to study it."
What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far?
"When I got signed in New York, I was beyond excited. It was unreal! Then I got the Vivienne Westwood campaign and got to work with Juergen Teller which was a dream come true."
How do you spend your free time?
"I like to draw and right now I have become interested in cooking so I am trying out a lot of new recipes. My best recipe so far is roasted duck leg, it is so succulent and juicy."
Do you have any travel tips for those visiting your hometown?
"My favourite place is Cabarete, which is a beautiful beach. They have water sports and lots of activities there. I love Santo Domingo because it's a place that's rich in history and I suggest that visitors just walk around and take in the amazing architecture."
What are the three products you can't live without?
"Dior Nude Air for my skin, it gives you a flawless face without looking like you are wearing any make-up. I love Saje essential oils, especially the stress release one. If I am feeling stressed, I apply a bit to my wrists and it magically calms me. I also love Hairstory New Wash for my curls as it keeps them from getting dried out."
What's your favourite form of exercise?
"I don't really have a set exercise regime but, living in New York, you are constantly on the move. On most days, I walk instead of taking the bus or the subway. This allows me to take in the sights and people of the city, all while exercising. Walking is the best workout for me."
What is your dream shoot?
"It would be my dream to shoot in Bali with Steven Meisel. I have always wanted to go to Bali and it looks like a place that is rich in culture and beauty, and who better to capture it than Meisel?"
Name your five essential items you wouldn't leave the house without…
"My Metro card, phone, schedule for the day, snack and my backpack."
If you had to wear only one designer, who would it be?
"I can't choose just one designer. I think it is very important as a woman to have a really good pair of jeans. They don't have to be expensive; they just have to fit you just right. You have to feel comfortable and confident when you leave the house for the day."
What kind of advice would you give to new girls to the industry?
"Be patient, be kind, and don't take anything personally. As a model, you will always have to deal with rejection on some level, and the sooner you realise that, the better off you will be. I also think it is very important not to compare yourself to other models. We all have our own path and your time will come!"
Is there a model's career that you admire and why?
"I admire every Dominican model that has paved the way for my generation."
Let's talk about favourites. What about…
…Music? "Spanish music."
…Movies? "Mr. Nobody, the science-fiction drama film."
…Books? "El Túnel by Ernesto Sabato."
…Food? "I love barbecue and seafood."
harpers bazaar.co.uk