By Katie Sotack
Authentic and diverse models can be hard to come by in the clothing industry. Often times, models aren’t directed to ‘be themselves’. At SmartGlamour we do things differently. Our models are as diverse in personality as they are in age, size, shape, and ability. The goal is that any and every customer can find someone modeling our clothes who are similar to them.
This month’s model is newer to SmartGlamour’s repertoire of models, having only worked three photo shoots with us, but her light-hearted personality and playful sense of style have shined through since day one. Beginning her career as a SG Model in February of 2020, the pandemic hasn’t stopped her from embracing herself and all that SmartGlamour is.
Whether she’s rocking a fierce look or vibrantly beaming, she a gem to have on set and a friend to any camera lens.
Our January Model of the Month is Abimbola!
Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do?
I have a passion for dance fitness and currently working towards my certification as a group fitness instructor. I’m also a coffee aficionado. Please send any coffee recommendations my way.
How did you get involved with the brand?
A friend of mine was modeling a couple of pieces on her Instagram page, she looked great and the clothing was vibrant. I stalked the SmartGlamour page and saw there was an open audition happening at the time. The rest is history 🙂
You’ve modeled for us multiple times – what makes you continue to come back?
The community, the photo shoot process and knowing you are encouraged to come as your authentic self in a no pressure environment. Each shoot boosts my confidence and it’s always a bonus to get some professional pictures to add to my portfolio and pieces from the collection you get to keep.
What does body liberation mean to you?
F.R.E.E.D.O.M
If there is a message you could put across to women, femmes, and non binary folks through your modeling photos – what would that be?
Be yourself, everyone else is taken. I have a jovial personality and I let that shine through my pictures. Being “sexy” or “serious” looking doesn’t work for me. There should be no standard or list of rules you have you to follow to find your happiness. Do what makes you comfortable and let your personality shine through and don’t be afraid to take the leap into a new experience.
What is your advice to people who would like to give modeling a try?
Don’t be discouraged by society’s definition, it’s trash and creates so many problems. Know yourself and your success is 100% up to you.
A big thank you to our model of the month, Abimbola for sharing with us!
Did anything she say resonate with you personally or that you’d like to hear more about? What does it mean to you to see models that look like you? Please share in the comments below to discuss.
