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Model of the Week: Aminata

bellasugar — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 07:01:27 -0700

You probably don't know the name Mia Aminata Niara — she goes by Aminata professionally — but that should soon change.

The 5'9" stunner was born in Senegal, now lives in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, and speaks three languages. She's, as they say, big in Europe: Aminata has walked the runways of Vivienne Westwood, Jean Paul Gaultier, Lanvin and appeared in magazines such as Vogue Germany.

So why has it taken until this season to see her in New York fashion shows like Proenza Schouler, Erin Fetherston, and Ralph Lauren? For the answer, along with the unusual skin-care tip Aminata shared,

Model of the Week: Marisa Miller

bellasugar — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:00:22 -0700

As the new face of Victoria's Secret Very Sexy Dare fragrance, Marisa Miller is on the road to being a one-namer (think Heidi, Cindy, Naomi). I caught up with her recently in New York and got her to spill some beauty secrets. Most surprising, however, was that the California native has eschewed suntanning over the last few years and believes it has saved her skin. "I was just talking to Linda Hay, the head makeup artist for Victoria's Secret, and she said my skin looks better now than when I started five years ago. It's because I‘ve stayed out of the sun the last two years."

To find out how she fakes it and get one of Hay's Australian beauty secrets,

Model of the Week: Teiko Dornor

bellasugar — Wed, 14 May 2008 07:00:24 -0700

My friend Frank is an uber-talented designer, and when he showed me the look of this Nicolay and Kay release, I had to know who the gorgeous woman on the cover was. Turns out that she's a London-based model named Teiko Dornor — and she's much more than just a pretty face. She's a working model, a law student (who's on a break), a television presenter with OBE-TV, and the organizer of a pageant called Miss Plus Africa. The Ghanaian-British beauty took a few minutes to talk about being a plus-size model, learning to appreciate herself, and, of course, her best beauty tips.

Did you struggle with your appearance while growing up? How has modeling changed the way you see yourself, if at all?
While I was growing up I was rather on the skinny side (little did I know I would become a plus-size model) so my parents where concerned which then made me a little paranoid. Modeling has changed the way I interact with others. I’m naturally introverted and rather shy, so it's really forced me come out of my shell; it has changed how I see myself and made me a stronger woman. I’ve really come to terms that it's what I think about Teiko that’s most important.

For the full interview,

Model of the Week: Natalie Nwagbo

bellasugar — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:00:52 -0700

Londoner Natalie Nwagbo isn't going to let a little thing like getting kicked off of cycle three of Britain's Next Top Model discourage her from modeling. This 5'11" 23-year-old is an eight-year veteran in the biz. She got her start when a talent scout wandered into the nail salon where she worked and asked if she would fill in for another model at a fashion show later that week.

From there she appeared in print ads, commercials and numerous fashion shows. She is still waiting for her big break, but she believes that her hard work will soon pay off. I spoke with Natalie about her favorite beauty looks, her secret to beautiful skin, and her guilty pleasures.

For the full interview,

Model of the Week: Coco Rocha

bellasugar — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 07:00:41 -0800

In her four years of modeling, Coco Rocha has become one of the fashion world's most famous faces. Discovered while competing in an Irish-dance competition, the 5'9" beauty has walked countless fashion runways including those of Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui, and Christian Dior. She's also appeared on the covers of top magazines including Numero, Vogue, and W. Last month, I had a moment to talk with the Canadian model before the Rag & Bone show. Read on!

How do you have such good skin?
I usually stay out of the sun. I do put makeup on, but I clean it with a soap that gets pH balance back to normal. It's made exactly for that. I moisturize with Lancome hydrating moisturizer; it's really thin.

For more of the interview, plus a video of Coco showing off her skills in Irish dance,

Model of the Week: Chanel Iman

bellasugar — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 14:00:04 -0800

If you haven't heard of Chanel Iman yet, get ready, because this teenager might just be the next supermodel. The 5'9" Korean-American/African-American stunner has worked for a long list of designers including Christian Dior, Valentino, YSL, Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, and Oscar de la Renta. Oh yeah, and she's already been on the cover of Vogue. Not a bad resume for someone who only recently turned 18.

I had a moment to talk with Chanel before the Erin Fetherston show, and although she was a bit under the weather, she was kind enough to answer a few questions. I found her good-natured, funny, and intelligent, and I think you will, too. Read on!

How does Fashion Week feel now compared to when you were starting out?
I still love it. And you have to love what you do and really enjoy it. It's always been a job and I've been very professional about it, but now it's a career: not just a job, but a career. I look at it a little differently, you know? I need to be on point at all times.

To find out about Chanel's formula for beautiful hair and skin,

Model of the Week: Karolina Kurková

bellasugar — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 08:00:29 -0800

If the Jolly Green Giant had a gorgeous daughter, it would probably be Czech model Karolina Kurkova. I'm of above-average height, but she's so tall that I felt about as short as Milo while interviewing her. She's been on the covers of Vogue, Vanity Fair, and The Face among other magazines. But these days, she's best known as one of the Victoria's Secret Angels. I've interviewed her before, but we had lots to talk about this time around—so read on to find out how she keeps her skin and hair healthy.

What do you do to keep your skin so clear?
I try to steam everyday. I drink a lot of water. And then I use the Victoria's Secret Bare Bronze tinted moisturizer to give me a little bit of glow. So I don't need to lay in the sun. I guess laughing. I think laughing and having a good attitude gives you that glow. That would be my secret.

For more of the interview, plus a photo gallery,

Model of the Week: Isabeli Fontana

bellasugar — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 08:00:38 -0800

Brazilian beauty Isabeli Fontana was the last model that Fab and I talked with at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. The 24-year-old, who started modeling for Victoria's Secret when she was just 16, has appeared on the covers of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and other fashion heavyweights. We had only a few minutes—literally—to chat, but she shared some good details about her skincare routine and philosophy.

Any beauty tips or secrets you've learned through modeling?
I've learned that you cannot sleep with makeup on because your skin gets oily at night. So it's best to clean your face and moisturize well. Even if it's oily, it's good to moisturize. So put a good product on your face; your face has to be fed with a good moisturizer cream.

To find out why Isabeli won't wash her face with tap water,

Model of the Week: Angela Lindvall

bellasugar — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 09:00:43 -0800

I recently had a few minutes to talk with Angela Lindvall, whose face you've probably seen on the covers of ELLE, Nylon, Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire, Vogue, and all the other big-name magazines. But she's more than a pretty face. The 28-year-old is an environmental activist, a vegetarian, and an outdoorsy, hippie-chic sort of lady. Fab caught up with her to talk fashion, and Angela and I chatted about everything from nutrition to confidence. She was completely laid-back and approachable; I had to fight urges to share my favorite tempeh recipe with her. Read on:

You've been modeling for years. Are there any beauty secrets you can share?
Yeah. I don't think it matters so much what you're putting on your skin as much as what you're putting in your body. Like eating healthy foods such as raw fats and oils. I only wear natural stuff on my skin. And also, whenever you feel really tired, use a natural cream and give your face a real massage and do a lymphatic drainage. I think that's really good to do before you do your makeup so that your face gets circulation. And of course, lots of water.

For more from Angela, including a gallery of photos,

Model of the Week: Hana Soukupová

bellasugar — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 08:00:00 -0800

It's been a long time since I first spoke with Hana Soukupová, the Czech model who's one of the most in-demand people. While backstage at the Victoria's Secret fashion show, I had a few seconds to talk beauty with her (and of course, Fab got her fashion thoughts).

Even though Hana is about to turn 23, she looks like she could pass for 14. Her delicate facial features are small, and she has a charming girlishness to her. To find out about her beauty routine, and to see a collection of modeling photos,

Model of the Week: Cheyenne Tozzi

bellasugar — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 09:00:17 -0800

Welcome back to Model of the Week. I know, I know, it's been more like Model of the Fortnight, or even Model of the Month, but now that the big fashion shows are over, the models actually have time to talk!

Nineteen-year-old Cheyenne Tozzi comes from Australia, where she's done print and TV ad campaigns as well as fashion editorials. For her, modeling is a family affair: Her mom Yvonne used to model, as does her sister Tahyna. At age 13, Cheyenne appeared on the cover of Harper's Bazaar, and some people think she might just be the next Victoria's Secret Angel. Fab talked with her about fashion, and we dished on beauty. For my interview with Cheyenne,

Model of the Week: Lydia Hearst

bellasugar — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 08:00:48 -0700

I love that the BellaSugar and FabSugar teams have been able to bring back Model of the Week! This week, we are featuring the lovely Lydia Hearst. You may recognize her last name from the magazine company that publishes Marie Claire and Bazaar. Or you might know her name from Hearst Castle, from the estate of her great-grandfather William Randolph Hearst, or as the daughter of kidnapping victim Patty Hearst. However, Lydia is more than just an heiress and socialite. She is also a model, an activist, and a philanthropist—and she is coming out with a Puma Lydia handbag in November.

She was born on September 19,1984, as Lydia Marie Hearst Shaw in Wilton, Connecticut. She always loved fashion and makeup, so a modeling career was something that suited her passions. Lydia first got her start in modeling with Ford Models and is now with ONE Model Management.

She has been a part of big campaigns such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, MAC, Alexander McQueen, Moschino Cheap & Chic, DKNY, Bottega Veneta, Clinique, Heatherette, L'Oreal Feria, Neiman Marcus, PUMA, Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza, Jovovich-Hawk, Rene Lezard, Lord & Taylor, Sephora, and soon, Roberto Cavalli for H&M. You can look forward to seeing her as the face of NARS for Spring 2008.

In addition to racking up commercial modeling credits, she has appeared on the cover of many magazines like Avenue, German, Italian, Hellas and L'Uomo Vogue, New York, Marie Claire Japan, BON, Flaunt, and Nylon.

To read about her fashion interview, click here, and to read about some of her beauty secrets and to see some snazzy modeling snapshots,

Model of the Week: Yoanna House

bellasugar — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 08:00:00 -0700

We are so excited to bring back Model of the Week! This time, we take a closer look at American model Yoanna House. Yoanna was born on April 9, 1980 in Jacksonville, Florida. She can credit her amazing looks from her Mexican mother and her Canadian father. (She is also very close to her grandmother—who's actually the one who got her interested in fashion and modeling!)

After losing 50 lbs, Yoanna decided to try out for America's Next Top Model, and her big break in the industry was winning season two! Her prizes included a cover of the Sephora catalog, a contract with IMG and a photo spread for Jane magazine. Since then, she has modeled around the world and is the host of "The Look for Less" on the Style Network.

Other Top Model players that have been featured as Models of the Week are "Holland's Next Top Model" host Yfke Sturm and Caridee English, the winner of "America's Next Top Model" season seven.

To read FabSugar's fashion interview with Yoanna click here, and to discover her best beauty secrets,

Model of the Week: Noémie Lenoir

bellasugar — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 06:00:56 -0700

Welcome again to Model of the Week, where BellaSugar and famous models come together to talk beauty. This week I had the pleasure of interviewing Noémie Lenoir (pronounced "no-ay-mie lin-wah"). The 5'10" green-eyed model and actress was born on September 19th, 1979 in Les Ulis, just outside of Paris. Her father is French and her mother is from the French island of La Réunion.

At the age of 16, Noémie was discovered by a Ford modeling scout at a post office; however, she didn't begin a serious career until she finished school.

In 1999 she moved to New York, and since then she has worked with some of the most famous photographers in world. Her campaigns include high-profile clients such as Victoria's Secret, Gap, Next, Tommy Hilfiger, Ann Taylor, Ralph Lauren Jeans, Pantene and Marks and Spencer. She has also appeared in Vogue, ELLE, Marie Claire, and Sports Illustrated and has walked in hundreds of fashion shows.

In 2001 Noémie signed with L'Oréal as their spokesmodel and has also taken a stab at acting. She has appeared in After the Sunset, a few French films and is currently filming Rush Hour 3.

She also loves animals, horseback riding, swimming, shopping and spending time with her two-year-old son, Kelyan. Noémie could not be any more of a pleasure to work with, and we wish her all the best!

To check out more about her fashion interests, click here and to see some of her modeling images and discover her beauty secrets,

Model of the Week: Riley Keough

bellasugar — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 08:00:00 -0700

Welcome back to Model of the Week, where models dish about their beauty and fashion secrets! Meet Riley Keough. For those of you who are wondering why she looks so familiar, Riley, whose full name is Danielle Riley Keough, is the daughter of Lisa Marie Presley—which makes her granddaughter of the King and the former stepdaughter of Michael Jackson!

Riley was born on May 29, 1989 and was raised in Southern California where she developed a strong interest in fashion. She got her start modeling in a 2002 Tommy Hilfiger campaign, and in 2004 Annie Leibovitz took her photo with her famous mom and grandmother for the cover of Vogue. From there, it was off to Milan to walk the runway in Dolce and Gabbana's fall 2004 fashion show.

After that show, Keough's beautiful looks and strong work ethic helped make her a star. You might recognize her as a Victoria's Secret runway model, from her print ad campaigns for Christian Dior and David Yurman, or from her pictures in Vogue, Elle, Teen Vogue, L’Officiel and Jalouse.

One of Dior John Galliano's muses, Riley starred in the Dior designer's TV commercial for Miss Dior Cherie. Check out FabSugar's fashion interview with Riley. Also, to read about her beauty secrets, to watch the Dior commercial and to see a gallery,

Model of the Week: Marisa Miller

bellasugar — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 08:00:34 -0700

Welcome back to Model of the Week, where every Wednesday we learn the beauty secrets of top models. This week's featured model is Marisa Miller, who was discovered by famed photographer Mario Testino in 2001 while she was surfing in Manhattan Beach, California.

It's fitting, then, that Miller's major claim-to-fame is appearing in six Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues. Originally from Santa Cruz, California, the surfer babe was born on August 6, 1978, and grew up with two sisters. In high school, she was a star volleyball player and a big fan of all beach sports.

In addition to her SI shoots, Miller has modeled for Victoria's Secret and has appeared on the covers of Vogue, Fitness, and Shape. She has been featured in campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, J.Crew, Nordstrom, and Andrew Marc, and in August, she will star in her first television commercial alongside Heidi Klum for Victoria's Secret.

She chatted with Fab about her fashion passions, and you can read her beauty secrets and see a gallery of her work if you

Model of the Week: Amy Bracco

bellasugar — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 08:00:02 -0700

Welcome back to Model of the Week, where we reveal the beauty and fashion secrets of top models.

Today, we're getting up close and personal with Amy Bracco, a Walnut Creek, Calif., native whose fresh face was discovered at a local modeling competition. Throughout high school, she spent her summer vacations modeling in Los Angeles and New York, then later moved on to other fashion capitals such as Paris, Sydney, and Milan.

Bracco has appeared in countless ad campaigns — including shoots for Guess, Diesel, Coach, DKNY, Tretorn, Dove, and Clinique — as well as TV ads for Pantene, Samsung, Oil of Olay, and Garnier Fructis.

When she's not modeling, she loves traveling, supporting the Natural Resources Defense Council, and cooking for her friends. She's also big fan on rock concerts, writing, and spa days — ahhh, a gal after my own heart. To see what Amy had to say about fashion, visit FabSugar, and to see her beauty secrets and a photo gallery,

Model of the Week: Britt Koth

bellasugar — Wed, 30 May 2007 08:00:55 -0700

Welcome back to Model of the Week. This Wednesday, we are taking a closer look at doe-eyed Britt Koth, who you may remember as the devout Christian on MTV’s "8th & Ocean." Koth is a 21-year old from Kansas City, MO, who hails from a very large family. She has nine siblings — four brothers and five sisters — six of whom were adopted from around the world.

She was discovered at age 16, when her mothered entered her in a Kansas City modeling contest. Koth quickly signed with a local agency, where she modeled for a few years before moving to Miami to sign with Irene Marie Management Group.

You may recognize her from her photos in Seventeen, Teen Vogue, Teen People, and Ocean Drive, as well as ad campaigns for Buckle, Roxy, Delia’s, Chevrolet, and Quiksilver. Fittingly, Koth loves makeup and going to the beach, and she also spends time hiking, camping, fishing, and reading. To read what she had to say about fashion on FabSugar, and for insight into her beauty regimen and a photo gallery,

Model of the Week: Cynthia Kirchner

bellasugar — Wed, 23 May 2007 08:00:12 -0700

It's Wednesday, which means it's time to meet BellaSugar's latest Model of the Week. Today, we're getting up close and personal with 25-year-old Cynthia Kirchner, a 5-foot-8 blond-haired beauty with stunning green-blue eyes.

Born in Hazleton, PA, Kirchner has four brothers, a sister, and a two-pound teacup poodle named — get this! — Bella. She started modeling in 2002, and in her very first week with Nous Models, she'd already booked ads Guess and Abercrombie & Fitch. She has since appeared on the covers of Cosmo and WWD, as well as in music videos for Enrique Iglesias ("Don't Turn Out the Lights") and Justin Timberlake ("Like I Love You").

Kirchner has also done catalog work for almost all major department stores, and her fabulous face has graced advertising campaigns for Express, Nautica, Redken, L'Oreal, Garnier, Target, Christian Lacroix, and Olympus. When she's not modeling she enjoys taking long walks, reading, writing, eating sushi and ice cream, and traveling to Paris and London from her current NYC residence. Cynthia is also pursuing a couple of hush-hush movie projects.

Read what she had to say about fashion on FabSugar, and to learn her beauty secrets and see some of her modeling highlights, including her Garnier Fructis commercial,

Model of the Week: Caroline D'Amore

bellasugar — Wed, 16 May 2007 08:00:00 -0700

Welcome back to Model of the Week. This week's magnificent model is Malibu native Caroline D'Amore. As a young girl, D'Amore studied ballet and jazz, and she credits dancing with giving her the confidence to start modeling. By age 12, D'Amore had fallen in love with being on stage, but her family wanted to protect her from "the biz" until she was older. At age 17, D'Amore moved to the Big Apple to begin modeling.

You might recognize her from photos in Teen Vogue, Seventeen, Cosmo Girl, Flaunt, Nylon, and Paper. Caroline has also ruled many a catwalk, including those of Stella McCartney, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Agent Provocateur. When she's not modeling, you can find her on hikes, at the beach, or in a DJ booth spinning records. D'Amore also appears in the indie movie “Daydreamer."

Fab has the scoop on D'Amore's style, and I've got her beauty secrets. To read my interview and see a gallery of images, when you

Models of the Week: Kelly and Sabrina Aldridge

bellasugar — Wed, 09 May 2007 08:30:45 -0700

Welcome back to Model of the Week. Today, you get a double dose of Bella beauties: Kelly and Sabrina Aldridge, a pair of 22-year-old twins from Tampa with blond hair and brown eyes.

Ever since they were young, the twins were pursued by modeling agencies and talent scouts, but it wasn't until they were 18 that they headed to Miami to model. After one meeting at the Irene Marie agency, they were signed!

You may recognize them from the MTV reality show, 8th & Ocean, as well as from their recent Acuvue, Differin, and Laundry by Shelli Segal ad campaigns. They also appeared in the 2006 movie Deck The Halls.

Kelly and Sabrina have a competitive nature about them, but they are also the best of friends and have an unconditional sense of love and support for each other.

Read what they had to say about fashion to Fab, and check out their thoughts on beauty and a great gallery of photos when you

Model of the Week: Jessica Gomes

bellasugar — Thu, 03 May 2007 09:12:43 -0700

Welcome to BellaSugar's Model of the Week. This week, we are chatting with the beautiful Australian brunette, Jessica Gomes. Jessica was born in Sydney, the baby of a family that includes two older sisters, an older brother, a Portuguese father, and a Chinese mother. Her childhood was simple and rustic, so her interests lay more in reading, art, and sports than in fashion and beauty.

Fearing she wouldn't grow up polished, Jessica's mother sent her to finishing school at the age of 13. It was there that she appeared on the hit TV show "Bush Patrol," which lead to a modeling contest and the start of a successful career.

You might recognize her from her photos in Vogue, Teen Vogue, Glamour, and the Victoria’s Secret catalog. She has appeared in ads for Adidas, Gap, Motorola, and DKNY. She also recently signed with Estee Lauder as the face of Diddy's Unforgivable fragrance.

When she's not walking the catwalks, Jessica enjoys interior design, yoga, dancing, painting, gymnastics, playing tennis, squash, surfing, swimming, and boxing. She currently lives in NYC and gets back to Australia to see her friends as often as possible.

We spoke to Jessica about her beauty secrets, so to read the interview and see a gallery of photos,

Model of the Week: Heide Lindgren

bellasugar — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:40:22 -0700

Welcome again to Model of the Week! This week we are featuring American beauty, and peripheral character from MTV’s series, 8th and Ocean, Heide Lindgren. Here’s a bit about this native Floridian redhead.

Heide Lindgren was born on October 11, 1987, in Boynton Beach FL. She was just a braces clad 13 year old girl when an Irene Marie Model scout discovered her in the audience at a Britney Spears concert.

You may recognize her from her Abercrombie & Fitch and European Grohl Hair ads, Teen Vogue spreads and an Avon mark campaign. Oh, and in 2004, French Vogue voted her the top new face. But it was her breakout role in the 2006 MTV show 8th & Ocean that really put her on the map. She can also be seen now in New Found Glory's “It's Not Your Fault” video!

Recently, Heide also won Fox Sports’ Best Damn South Beach Model Competition in which she was partnered with super cute quarterback John Elway. Heide is a spunky and ambitious young model. Thanks for doing this interview, we wish you lots of luck in your career!

To see some red hot images of this sexy redhead and to read her interview,

Model Of The Week: Yfke Sturm

bellasugar — Wed, 18 Apr 2007 14:10:22 -0700

Welcome again to one of my favorite weekly feature's on FabSugar: Model of the Week! This week the lovely 5' 11" long legged, blond-haired, blue-eyed Yfke Sturm is being featured. Yfke was born on November 19th, 1981, in Almere, Netherlands which was also where she was discovered.

At the age of just 14, she was more interested in sports than modeling, but was urged to enter a modeling competition in the South of France. After her win, her career took off. You might recognize her from her pictures in: Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Esquire, Arena Magazines and the Victoria's Secret Catalog. Or perhaps she seems familiar from her two year stint as host of the Dutch TV show, "Holland’s Next Top Model."

She has also been featured in ads for: Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, La Perla, J-Lo, Biotherm, Armani, Krizia, Carolina Herrera, Bali, H&M, Escada, Banana Republic and has recently completed ads for Pantene, XOXO and Garnier. If you think this is a lot, her list of runway appearances is even longer!

On a more personal note, Yfke is a humanitarian who is an ambassador of the Dutch Red Cross Foundation and started “Yfke 4 Kids” in collaboration with the Red Cross which helps children all over the world who have AIDS.

To read all about her beauty secrets and guilty pleasures,

Model of the Week: Lisa Seiffert

bellasugar — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 11:40:22 -0700

This post marks a milestone for our Model of the Week feature! Lisa Seiffert is lucky model number ten. This feature has been one of my favorites because I find these ladies so interesting. They have all been very smart, articulate, friendly, and of course knock down gorgeous. To read the other nine Model of the Week interviews click here.

Here's some background on Lisa Seiffert. She was born in a small town by the Great Barrier Reef, in Australia. She loves animals and wildlife and when she's not modeling, she can often be found donating time to the World Wild Life Foundation. She began modeling at a young age and by 16 she had already graced a dozen magazine covers.

You may recognize her from Australian and American Vogue Elle, American and British Harper's Bazaar, hundreds of catwalks she has walked and a multitude of ad campaigns. She also appeared in the Robbie Williams video "Road to Mandalay and Eternity."

Lisa's future is as bright as a shining star and she shows no signs of slowing down! She is currently living in New York and loves spending time with her family and friends whenever she has the chance to see them.

To read the interview and to see more pictures of Lisa,

Model of the Week: Alessandra Ambrosio

bellasugar — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 13:29:33 -0700

Here's a little information on yet another Brazilian beauty, Alessandra Ambrosio. She was born on April 11, 1981 in the southern part of Brazil. She began taking modeling classes as a young girl, which lead her to Elite Model Management's 1996 Look of The Year competition. She didn't win, but later that year, she was granted a contract with Elite.

You may recognize her from her campaigns for Guess, Victoria's Secret and Revlon as well as from the covers of Brazilian Elle, Wallpaper, and Harper's Bazaar. She has also walked the runways of Nicole Miller, Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix, Fendi, Issey Miyake, Kenzo, and Oscar de la Renta. In 2000, Alessandra joined the Victoria's Secret Angels and in 2004, she was named spokesperson for their Pink line.

Although she is a successful model, she still has dreams of attaining a college degree. She keeps active through sand boarding, volleyball, rollerblading, body boarding, surfing and snowboarding. Alessandra was a pleasure to speak with. She was full of smiles, energy and poise.

To read the interview and to see more runway pictures,

Model of the Week: Izabel Goulart

bellasugar — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 15:55:22 -0700

This week I am featuring one more stunning Victoria's Secret Angel. I've asked her the same five questions as I have in the past to reveal her best beauty secrets!

Here's a little bit of history about Izabel. She was born October 23, 1984 in São Carlos (a part of São Paulo), Brazil. She comes from a large family of five brothers and one sister. She was discovered when a hairdresser saw her shopping for groceries with her mother and encouraged her to model. She then moved to São Paulo to pursue modeling more seriously.

However, during her first ever runway appearance modeling swim suits, her bikini top fell off and the audience caught a peep show! Izabel exhibited composure and maturity and this incident actually helped jump start her career.

You may recognize her from her pictures in French and Japanese Vogue, Numero, Marie Claire, and Elle. She has also starred in ad campaigns for La Senza, Poko Pano, Valfrance, Express, Cori, Forum, Pollini and Pura Mania.

She just shot a campaign for Iodice and next week, she will have her first real acting cameo on the HBO show Entourage. Also, Izabel was named #18 in Esquire Magazine's annual list of 100 things, people, ideas, and trends you need to know. This model is here to stay!

To read the interview,

Model of the Week: Selita Ebanks

bellasugar — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 13:04:33 -0700

Here's a bit of history about the beautiful Selita Ebanks, who was born in the Cayman Islands. Since she comes from a family of seven brothers, she played a lot of sports growing up. These days, she's a fan of basketball, football and tennis.

Her family did not have very much money when she was growing up; she often did not even have shoes to wear to school. Eventually, Selita moved to the US and by the age of 17, she began modeling. (She was discovered at an amusement park in New Jersey.)

You may recognize her from her magazine layouts in Glamour, Marie Claire, Vogue and Nylon. She has also signed ad campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren and Levis. In 2005 she was chosen to become a Victoria's Secret Angel. She also made a TV appearance on Tyra that year, when retiring model Tyra passed on her Victoria's Secret wings to Selita.

When I met her I was stunned by her engaging beauty. She has extremely warm eyes and a show-stopping smile. To read the interview,

Model of the Week: Caridee English

bellasugar — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 11:54:33 -0700

Welcome to our sixth installment of Model of the Week. I've written a five question interview that I have conducted with several models to share with you. The questions are both fun and beauty related and will always stay the same.

Caridee English was born in 1984 in Fargo, North Dakota. From the mere age of five, she suffered psoriasis (a skin disease) which covered almost 75% of her body. She was convinced this would prevent her from modeling, but in 2005 she was given a new type of medication to control the disease.

Caridee is 5'11 and used to be an aspiring photographer. Using her carefree and charismatic personality along with some fierce looks, Caridee won season seven of America's Next Top Model!

You may recognize her from her February 2007 cover of Seventeen magazine, her Cover Girl ads and her many red carpet and event appearances since her big win. She is currently living in New York in the Elite Model house. She is silly, adorable and extremely approachable.

To read her interview that was conducted at the ck IN2U launch party and to see more images,

Model of the Week: Karolina Kurkova

bellasugar — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 12:21:22 -0800

Welcome to the fifth installment of Model of the Week. I've written a five question interview that I have conducted with several models to share with you. The questions are both fun and beauty related and will always stay the same. To see the rest of the Model of the Week posts click here.

Here's a little history about Karolina Kurkova. She was born on February 28, 1984 in Decín, Czech Republic. She was discovered when an admiring friend sent some pictures of her to a modeling agency in Prague. She immediately booked a runway show, a commercial, an ad campaign and then traveled to Milan to explore the international world of fashion.

It was in Milan where she met Miuccia Prada who signed her to a Prada contract at the tender age of 15. She then met Vogue editors in NY, where she now lives.

Karolina has signed deals with: Yves Saint Laurent, Victoria's Secret, Tommy, Valentino, Ralph Lauren, Oscar de la Renta and Balenciaga.

She is one of the most renowned models in the world. In 2001, she graced the cover of Vogue and in 2002 she was granted the "Model of the Year" title at the 2002 VH1/Vogue Fashion Awards.

She is quite accustomed to fame though. Her Dad is Josef Kurka - a former star basketball player. There is a reason this beauty has become a shining star. She is sweet, down to earth, driven and extremely articulate. Best of luck to you Karolina!

To read the interview that was conducted at Victoria's Secret in NY on her birthday,

Model of the Week: Hana Soukupova

bellasugar — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 12:23:33 -0800

Welcome to the fourth installment of Model of the Week. I've written a five question interview that I have conducted with several high profile models to share with you. The questions are both fun and beauty related and will always remain the same. Don't forget to check out the past three installments featuring Jessica Stam, Caroline Winberg and Carolyn Murphy.

Here's a little about the up and coming runway model Hana Soukupova. Hana was born in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic, on December 18th, 1985. She was a competitive basketball player until she entered the modeling arena through a Prague agency at the age of 15.

Hana has extremely long limbs and a delicate look about her. She has become a huge success over the last five years and continues to work incessantly.

You may recognize her from her campaigns for: Gucci, Jill Stuart, Tse, Carolina Herrera and Versace or from her Vogue, Elle and Bazaar covers. She has also graced the catwalk of many couture runways.

Hana stays in shape and gets rid of stress by hitting a punching bag she had installed in her apartment and she connects with her creative side by taking pottery classes in NYC.

To read her interview, and to see more runway pictures,

Model of the Week: Carolyn Murphy

bellasugar — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 09:24:47 -0800

Welcome to our third first installment of Model of the Week. I've written a five question interview that I have conducted with several models to share with you. The questions are both fun and beauty related and will always stay the same. To see the rest of the Model of the Week posts click here.

Here's a little history about the classically stunning Carolyn Murphy. She was born in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, on August 11th, 1975. She grew up in and about Northwest Florida in a trailer park in Panama City, Florida. She was spotted and discovered at the age of 16 by the owner of Mary Lou's Models Modeling agency and began modeling right away.

Carolyn moved to Milan to model after high school. It was there where she gained her popularity. She bleached her hair blond for a photo shoot and it began to fall out. Many photographers took notice of her brave, boyishly short haircut and she began getting work in high profile magazines.

You may recognize her from her 2005 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover, as the face of Estee Lauder, from her award as VH1/Vogue's "Model of the Year"in 1988, from her many magazine ads, runway shows or from her screen debut in the movie, Liberty Heights.

Carolyn is also the proud mother of a gorgeous seven year old daughter named Dylan Blue. I am pleased to be featuring this stately blond, blue eyed fashion icon whom I have admired for years.

To read her interview and to see more images,

Model of the Week: Caroline Winberg

bellasugar — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 04:33:33 -0800

Welcome to the second installment of Model of the Week. I've written a five question interview that I have conducted with several fashion models to share with you. The questions are both fun and beauty related and will always remain the same. Don't forget to check out my first Model of the Week featuring Jessica Stam.

Here's a little about the gorgeous Caroline Winberg (pronounced Vin-berg). She was born in Sweden on March 27th, 1985, and was discovered at the age of 16 after being allegedly harassed by Mick Jagger. The rocker became smitten with her after watching her at a fashion show and began calling her incessantly. He of course, denies any and all involvement in such a scandal.

You may recognize Caroline from her campaigns for Valentino, Chloé, Versace, Victoria's Secret, Neiman Marcus, Mango and Ungaro. She has also graced the covers of Italian Vogue, Russian Vogue, and German Vogue. She has the reputation of being hard working and intelligent. I found her to be outgoing, kind, upbeat and extremely gracious.

To read her interview that was done backstage before the Luca Luca Show, and to see more runway pictures,

Model of the Week: Jessica Stam

bellasugar — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 08:33:33 -0800

Welcome to our very first installment of Model of the Week. I've written a five question interview that I have conducted with several models to share with you. The questions are both fun and beauty-related and will always stay the same. I can't wait to hear what you think of this new feature!

Here's a little history on the gorgeous Jessica Stam. She was born in Kincardine, Ontario, Canada on April 23rd, 1983 and was discovered in a coffee shop on her way home from an amusement park.

You may recognize her from her countless magazine spreads, appearances in many fashion shows and ads for Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui, Vera Wang, Atsuro Tayama, Cerruti Jeans, Valentino, Miu Miu, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Holt Renfrew and BCBG. Did you know that Marc Jacobs's highly coveted Stam Bag was inspired by her? She has just signed on to be the face of Armani and Bulgari.

Known for her amazing cat-like blue eyes and long lashes, Jessica also happens to be super sweet, approachable and down-to-earth.

To read her interview that was done backstage before the Luca Luca Show, and to see more runway pictures,