Our Model of the Month for April is Alessandra Grima! Alessandra has modeled for us in both winter and summer look books and we’re happy to have her as part of the SG family. Learn more about her below!
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1. Aside from occasionally modeling for SmartGlamour – what do you do?
I am a retail manager by day and a working comedian by night! (insert laugh track)
2. How did you get involved with the brand?
I’ve followed SG for ages, so it’s a bit hazy! But, I believe I saw a call for models and jumped at the chance! I’m from RI, but the trek to NYC was worth it to work with such a great brand.
3. You’ve modeled for us multiple times – what makes you continue to come back?
SG is so f*cking important! -to be blunt. I’m sick of society putting people in a box, I’m sick of society putting fashion in a box. I’m sick of society. SG is the ONLY brand I know of that includes everyone – and I mean everyone! As a retail manager, I see all types of people in my store. I witness the nervousness of a trans person trying on clothes while being glared at by customers; I witness plus size women scared to ask if I carry their size. I witness plus size women bashing the smaller sizes my store carries! None of it is acceptable, and ALL of it is a product of the close-minded view that is projected upon us. SG is a shining light, and frankly, necessary. This view needs to be reprogrammed.
4. What does body positivity mean to you?
Body positivity is for anyone that has a body. I am short and plus sized, with smaller legs, fuller midsection, and a large bust. So, my personal journey was coming from a ‘plus sized’ place. But what I’ve learned over the years, is that ANYONE can have body dysmorphia. ANYONE can hate their body, ANYONE can be bullied. Body positivity is so far beyond it’s face value. it’s a movement that can literally change the world-view. The tropes of body positivity can carry over to anything: race, religion, etc. It’s basically saying, “Cant’ we all just get along?”.
5. If there is a message you could put across to women/femmes/non binary folks through your modeling photos – what would that be?
Break whatever mold you came out of! Generally, to be a signed plus size model, you have to be 5’11”, hips curvy, flat tummy. i am none of those things; an agency would never sign me, and guess what? Modelling pays my bills. I refused to give up on something I loved and was good at. No agency? I built my own brand. I’m too short for runway? I walked at L.A. Fashion Week. Let your rejections ignite the fire under your ass. Society HATES bellies, so I post mine as often as possible. Starting to get it?
6. What is your advice to people who would like to give modeling a try?
I get asked this often! I started by making a Model Mayhem profile and finding local photographers to build my portfolio. Luckily, I went to film school and I know endless amounts of photographers! As soon as you have a portfolio, you can apply to jobs and build a brand. Get itttt!
