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For model watchers, the Big Apple is the first stop on a global parade of shows that makes (and breaks) careers. For NEW MODELS NEW YORK, our exclusive preview of Spring 2012 in V74 The Model Issue, we ask 4 New York designers known for directional castings to name their favorite new girl. Alexander Wang selects Maria Bradley.
V Why did you choose Maria as your favorite new model of the moment?
ALEXANDER WANG She has a disinterest in fashion that is so intriguing. Her body is obviously amazing, but in a super athletic way. She just embodies the energy that every girl wants to have—sexy but not in the conventional way and completely effortless in her approach.
V When did you meet her?
AW Three days before my show.
V What about her do you find most exciting?
AW She just walks in and is completely confident in herself. Everything we threw on her just came to life. When she puts on a dress, it’s as if she is throwing on a T-shirt, and that is something that I always admire in a girl. She’s not precious.
V In your opinion, what makes a good model?
AW Everyone is different and has qualities that make them special and successful at what they do. Only Freja can be Freja, and only Lara can be Lara. It’s about embracing what’s special and unique about you.
Photography Paul Maffi
Jacket and T-shirt Alexander Wang S/S 2012
Just read on some website that she is kind of overrated or average... if that's the case then I might have bad taste because I find her quite interesting. Not typical, maybe not easy to get for some spoilt eyes. But she expresses something raw yet sophisticated in someway (if it makes sense but for my eyes it definitely does). Really like the combination of deep brown eyes and a mixture of strength (her features themselves and the expression, the pout when she walks) and some kind of unsecure vibe she has sometimes.
Age: 17 Provenance: Wichita, Kansas (born and raised)How do you say hello where you’re from? “Hey, what’s up?” No, we don’t say “Howdy” or “Hey, ya’ll.” What is your coffee order? Green tea. What are the three items you always keep in your purse? ChapStick, New York City map, and gum.
How were you discovered? I walked into a local agency in Kansas. Every time I tell people that, they don’t believe me; they are like, “In . . . Kansas?” I always say, “Yah! They’re one of the best, actually!” Most memorable modeling moment: Seeing the flashing lights at the end of every single runway, being able to block out all those people around you, and listening solely to the beat of the music. Most embarrassing modeling moment: Pulling open a “push” door. For some reason I do this all the time, and everyone is always like, “Oh, my gosh, another brainless model.” If we can navigate New York, we are not brainless! If you weren’t modeling, what would be your dream job? I am really lucky modeling came along because I honestly hadn’t worked that out yet. I was leaning toward a job in the criminal field, but I hadn’t really decided, I changed my mind so many times. Some days I wanted to be a chef, some days a lawyer, and some days even a FBI agent. Modeling has a way of having perfect timing.
What songs are on repeat on your iPod right now? “Feel Good Inc.” by Gorillaz. What new addition to your wardrobe are you currently craving this season? Another pair of combat boots, I’ve worn mine out already! They do look cooler worn in, though. What nail-polish color are you wearing right now? Nude. How do you stay in model shape? Any tricks of the trade? I run whenever I have time and energy. Every model has her little things, though—yoga, healthy food, et cetera—and luckily, most of us are blessed with lightning-fast metabolism. Name one natural talent you wish you had: Singing.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given? “Don’t become a zombie model.” What are your words to live by? If you’re not having fun, it’s your own damn fault.