Growing up I don’t remember there being many Native American models, fashion designers, or even Native fashion shows. However, since I started The Fancy Navajo, I have been introduced to so many Native fashion designers and models! It’s incredible and it makes me so happy to see a Native American presence in the fashion world. Over the last two years, I have gotten to know a lot of Native Models as the fashion stylist for Acoma Pueblo Designer, ACONAV. I share a lot of this journey on my Instagram stories and often get asked how to become a model? So today I will be sharing tips on how to become a fancy model. I also asked two of my favorite Native American models to share their stories and tips. Not only are they the sweetest, but I am so proud of their accomplishments in the modeling world.
First of all, confidence is key!
As a fashion stylist I have worked with a lot of models and I’ve learned that being a model isn’t as easy as it looks. There is a lot of traveling, early mornings, and putting yourself out there for judgement. Behind the scenes of a big fashion show, models spend hours getting hair and makeup done, often without knowing the look beforehand. It involves a lot of fittings and outfit changes. It’s organized chaos that most people don’t get see. But I love seeing visions boards come alive as the models grace the runway. You would never know a model changed in a matter of 2.5 seconds before stepping out on the runway. I am always inspired by how much confidence is exuded in models and it inspires me to be more CONFIDENT.
As a lifestyle blogger, I had to learn to be comfortable in front of the camera. When I first started blogging, I didn’t share pictures of myself, because I was too scared to put myself out there. But little by little I became more confident in front of the camera and soon it was no longer so scary. I learned what poses worked best for me and how to remain calm when taking pictures in public. Now I take wayyy too many pictures and my family likes to call what I do, modeling. It may not be the traditional sense of modeling that comes to mind, but it’s what I do.
So here are my tips for becoming a fancy native model:
- Network– Get to know the people in the fashion industry. Attend local fashion shows. Reach out to local designers/models and follow them on social media. A lot of model calls are done on social media and most designers are willing to work with aspiring models.
- Practice – Don’t be afraid to practice posing and walking. Most fashion shows require walking in heels. So, practice, practice, practice! Heel toe, heel toe. The more comfortable you are doing this, walking a runway will be a piece of cake!
- Be Professional – Arrive on time and come prepared. Ask questions if you don’t understand something. Respond quickly to emails. Respect the garments you are wearing.
- Create a profile of your work – Use social media to your advantage and use it like an online portfolio of your best work.
A lot of the models I have worked with are doing some pretty incredible things and are gracefully representing their communities with each walk down the runway. I have asked two of my favorite Native American models Kiara Nizhoni Jones and Fern Hoover to share their stories and tips for becoming a model. So please read their interviews below and give them a follow.
Name: Kiara Nizhoni Jones
Age: 20
Tribal Affiliation: Navajo and African American
Years Modeled: 6 years
Social Media Channel: miss_kiaaarra and nizhoni_kiara
1. Why did you want to become a model?
I originally never thought of becoming a model. It kinda just happened when my mom asked me if i wanted to try it my sophomore year of high school. From there I’ve never wanted to be a model more than I wanted to right now. I want to inspire both Native American and African American men and women across the country to have pride in their cultures and to follow their dreams.
2. How did you get started?
I got started with Loren and Val Aragon of ACONAV. They were searching for models for a show they were doing in Tucson and my mom was old friends with Val since they were in High school. It was ACONAV that opened up my modeling career and I love working with them. The ACONAV team is my new family!
3. What has been the most challenging part about being model?
The most challenging part for me was probably trying to fit in. I’m honestly a pretty quiet and shy person at first so it was hard for me to open up to others and really open up on stage in the beginning. But the more I practiced and got into shows the more confident and comfortable I got and now it’s just something I love doing.
4. What advice would you give to aspiring models?
The most important advice i would give not only models but anyone, would be to have confidence and patience in yourself. Never doubt yourself and don’t think that because you didn’t make this show or get that photoshoot you wanted that you’re not good enough. You are ALWAYS greater. Rejection happens but those are just small parts that lead up to something even better.
Name: Fern
Age:15
Tribal Affiliation: Comanche and Anishinaabekwe (Ojibway)
Years Modeled:4
Social Media Channel: kawaii_fern (Instagram)
1. Why did you want to become a model?
Ever since I was young I wanted to model/act. The older I got the more I wanted to reach that dream of mine. I used to put on little fashion shows for my family and absolutely loved it!
2. How did you get started?
I first started out with taking pictures with my mom, i would pose for her and she would take a picture. My mom and I had a family friend that I looked up to and still do to this very day. She helped me get into my first fashion show for Cher Tomas. Then other designers saw my pictures and it took off from there.
3. What has been the most challenging part about being model?
Growing up I was a very shy kid, like every shy kid I had stage freight. Stage freight was definitely one of the most challenging parts of becoming a model for me. To this day o get a little nervous before walking out on the runway. Modeling has helped me come out of my shell and meet new people.
4. What advice would you give to aspiring models?
Keep trying never give up on something you are passionate about. Keep practicing you walk, thinking of different ways to pose. Take care of yourself by dieting and exercising.
A huge thank you to Kiara and Fern for sharing their stories. I hope this gave more insight into the modeling world. If you are an aspiring model, I say go for it. I believe in you!! Just be confident and have fun!!
If you don’t already give me a follow on my social media channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefancynavajo/
I have a 15 yr old daughter that is interested in native american modeling. I have no idea where to begin.