American model Paloma Elsesser is taking the runways and the modeling industry by storm, but it wasn’t always like that. After being discovered on social media, Elsesser has been an important part of the body positivity movement in fashion, representing a broader range of body types and inspiring countless young girls. From working with Glossier to Nike, this model is just starting her path to fame, but here are some little-known facts you’ve never heard about her.
1. He had a musical childhood
Born to a Swiss-Chilean father and an African-American mother, Paloma grew up in Los Angeles and was exposed to all kinds of music. She described her childhood as “neo-bohemian” as she often went to music studios with her musician parents and soaked up all manner of tunes, from Bjork and Kate Bush to queen of pop Christina Aguilera.
2. He studied literature and psychology
Paloma is more than a pretty face; in fact, she didn’t always think she would be a model. Elsesser wanted to be a writer or psychologist when she was younger, and even studied literature and psychology at the New School in New York. She is just as passionate about these fields today and also has an interest in poetry.
3. Oprah is her biggest inspiration
If you’re assuming that her biggest inspiration is someone in fashion, you’d be wrong. Oprah is her biggest role model for a reason. She told Office Magazine in an interview: “She has transcended all the barriers placed in front of her, from relationship titles to acting. She does everything with authenticity, even in the mainstream media.”
4. Makeup artist Pat McGrath found her
Like many models, Paloma was discovered on Instagram. Dubbed the best makeup artist in the US, this close friend of Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss was actually the first to discover Paloma on Instagram. This discovery made her a top model and McGrath became her mentor, collaborating on many campaigns and photo shoots.
5. She talks about her struggles
Modeling is a difficult industry to break into. While Paloma is part of a shift to greater diversity in the industry, she is still acutely aware of how marginalized communities are treated in fashion. She still puts a lot of effort into fighting black discrimination, unrealistic beauty standards, and mental health, especially since she’s been through her own bouts of addiction and depression. Best of all, she is honest about these insecurities and fears, which makes her more human.
6. She has walked for many famous designers
Though still considered an industry up-and-comer, Elsesser has walked for Versace, Fendi, and Lanvin, and she’s not stopping anytime soon. Today,. Collaborate with cool, under-the-radar brands like Supriya Lele, Brandom Maxwell and Marni. In 2020 she was chosen model of the year by Models.com, which is very prestigious in the world of modeling.
7. She may design clothes one day.
Although she has no experience in fashion design, she is passionate about it and has said that she would like to design clothing for plus-size women one day. Although she didn’t go to fashion school, her experience in the industry and her exposure to fashion icons make us confident that one day she will present an impressive fashion line.
8. He loves to travel
And as a model, you can do a lot of things! Paloma has traveled to countries like Brazil, Nigeria, Japan and Spain. There are many more places to come – this is truly a woman of the world!
9. Community is your number 1 value
Some people think they can climb the ladder of fame on their own, but everyone knows that you need a team to cheer you on and support you if you want to get to the top. In a Net-A-Porter interview, Paloma said: “I’ve never really had a hard time making friends and I really value community – it changes and it changes. Your best friend can be your community; your family can be your community.”
