Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria Follas.
Alexandria, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I got into the modeling industry through an Equestrian friend, Etirsa South at the local horse stable in my hometown. I was about 15 at the time that I met Etirsa, who is a runway model and coach. Growing up, I was highly encouraged to get into the modeling industry because of my height. I never really took what they said seriously, mainly because I didn’t have a good understanding of what being a runway model meant. Etirsa helped ignite my passion for the fashion industry by introducing me to the basics of the modeling world. I was instantly hooked and ready to get my feet wet! From there, I trained with Jim Crawford at Tower Talent Studio West. He was able to refine my runway walk and teach me the tips and tricks needed to be successful at any modeling gig. Once I had the skills needed to get out there, I started to walk in runway shows and eventually started doing photo-shoots here in San Diego. I have most recently walked for Leonard Simpson, Gretchen Productions and Zandra Rhodes. I think the most rewarding part about my profession is the people that I get to meet. I absolutely love getting to see the audience’s reactions to all the outfits as they make their way down the runway. There is something special about seeing your hard work pay off.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My road hasn’t been perfectly smooth, but I have grown a sense of appreciation for the bumps that have come along. I think they are here to serve a purpose and teach a lesson to each individual. It is how we learn what we are comfortable with and what we enjoy doing in life. For a long time, I struggled with how others viewed me and how I compared to everyone else. I often struggled with the image that I wasn’t good enough and that I had to fix certain things about me in order to be more successful. Over time though, my views changed and I started to realize the beauty in variety. Just because one model in particular has a killer walk and fantastic look doesn’t mean mine is any less in comparison, it just means that we are different. I think that is extremely important for any person to hear especially young women, no matter what field you work in! I think society puts a lot of pressure on what a perfect woman should be, and when you are growing up into a young woman, it can make it hard to appreciate that the beauty is right there within you. My advice would be to be kind to others and show yourself that same kindness. Self-affirmations go a long way!
Tell us more about your work.
At the moment, I am a full-time college student and fashion model. Most of my work is here in San Diego which makes it easier for me to juggle my studies and work schedule. Eventually, I would love the opportunity to travel the world with my profession! The majority of my work is runway shows and photo-shoots. I have modeled for several viewing parties for fashion lines as well. I have also been fortunate to snag a couple acting gigs here and there. Runway shows are a ton of fun but can be a bit intense sometimes depending on how many quick changes you have. In high school, I sang with the Poway High Die Lieders choir and performed in our yearly musical, so there was a sense of familiarity for me when I started runway. One thing that I haven’t adjusted to after all these years is how fast it all goes. You spend so many hours in rehearsal and makeup/hair getting to know everyone, and then the show feels like it lasted only a few minutes! Photo-shoots are fun as well, but they are different in the sense that there is a more casual feel to them. The stress level is lower because if you mess up, you can just try again. It isn’t in front of a live audience so you don’t have to worry about if they saw you trip or if a wardrobe malfunction will occur. I haven’t decided if I prefer one over the other, I think they both offer unique qualities that make them special!
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
I have found that the majority of my work has come from networking. You go to castings or events and you get to know people and create a strong bond with them. If anything comes up that would be a good fit, you communicate and let each other know. Also, social media is an extremely helpful tool to further your success. It is a convenient way to promote your talent. When I first got involved in the industry, I found it really helpful to have a mentor. They have connections to help you get your foot in the door and they are there to help you improve your skillset: your walk, your poses, etc. A lot of times, talent agencies are the way to go because they can help guide you in the right direction to make sure you avoid scams and provide you with helpful resources.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @alexfollasmodeling
Image Credit:
Richard Deomampo, Tim Vechik, Sam Artomera, Xi Zeng, Carlos Frayre, Betty Chavira, Ku Bee
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