“You don’t have a life when you’re forcing yourself to be something you’re not, so I chose freedom and got healthy. For aspiring models out there, don’t change yourself for fashion, let fashion change for you.”
Wise words from beauty Heather Hazzan at Models1 Curve, who is the face of the newest edition of the ongoing series “A walk with” by Ola Ajani.
What’s your hometown and when last did you visit there.
My hometown is 15 minutes outside Washington, DC, in Northern Virginia. I was just in DC a few weeks ago, but rarely make it to Virginia because it’s changing too much!
How long have you been a model for and what tips do you have for aspiring models?
I’ve been a model above a size 10 for four years. Before that, I struggled to maintain the typical size two standard that the mainstream fashion industry demands. You don’t have a life when you’re forcing yourself to be something you’re not, so I chose freedom and got healthy. For aspiring models out there, don’t change yourself for fashion, let fashion change for you. Secondly, I’d urge you to really dig deep and ask yourself why you want to be a model. If it’s for validation of your beauty, it’s not going to happen. This is a business, honey.
You’ve just been told you could have only one of these items forever, which item will you choose? – a) Your MacBook b) Your phone c) Your wallet d) Your camera).
My iPhone, because it’s all those things wrapped into one! :P
What’s your favourite tune of 2015 so far?
To be completely honest to my geekdom, I’ve been listening to podcasts way more than music. They’re having a resurgence! Listen to TED Radio Hour and Invisibilia by NPR, Radiolab, Dear Sugar, Serial, and The Tim Ferriss Show.
3 people you’d like to be stuck in a house with for 24hrs.
Easy. Elon Musk, Lena Dunham, and Neil DeGrasse Tyson.
What’s your star sign?
Taurus. All I know is that I’m supposed to be stubborn — and believe me, I am. ;)
What’s your favourite city in the world and why?
London. It’s alive, yet calm. Bustling, but not hectic. Fun, yet efficient.
What holiday destination would you most love to visit next?
Morocco!
What’s your favourite film of all time?
“Never Been Kissed “with Drew Barrymore. It’s so 90’s and so sweet. I always root for the underdog, the weird one, the outcast!
What’s a guilty pleasure of yours?
Kardashians. *Facepalm*
You’re very gifted in front of as well as behind the camera, how has doing one helped the other and vice versa?
When I’m in front of the camera, I’m able to better understand perspective and shape. When I’m behind the camera, I’m able to empathize with the model and get her out of her head.
Tell us a quote that inspires you or a quote that you live by.
Albert Einstein once said, “The women who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before.”
Lastly, what are your plans for Summer 2015.
Enjoying all the markets and fleas in Brooklyn, singing too loudly at Red Rocks concerts, and picnicking with delicious things in Central Park.
Photographer is Ola Ajani – @ajanistry – www.ajani.me
Model: Heather @heatherhazzan from @models1curve
