ART & CULTURE
STYLING
DAVID GARGIULO
PHOTOGRAPHY
KEVIN SINCLAIR
Nisaa Pouncey is a successful African-American model. Raised in Atlanta, Nisaa started modeling at the age of 16. Her face has graced countless fashion magazines and designer campaigns; she is currently the face of Marc Jacobs. Now she is working on developing a merchandising company and set on purchasing her new home. Nisaa is driven, strong and beautiful; she was the perfect cast for our December fashion story.
On the cover: Top JW ANDERSON, earring PRADA, hat ERIC JAVITS.
" I HAVE ACCOMPLISHED MANY OF MY GOALS AS A FASHION MODEL. BUT, MY CURRENT PLAN IS TO CREATE A NAME FOR MYSELF."
Top MAJE, skirt PINKO, earrings SWAROVSKI.
Dress HERVE LEGER.
Vestal __ How were you discovered?
Nisaa Pouncey __ I entered Cynthia Bailey's first model search with little expectations and ended up winning. From there I got signed to an agency in New York, and that jump-started my career.
Vestal __ Did you always want to be a model?
Nisaa __ I would watch Tyra Bank's ANTM pointing to the TV, telling my mom that's what I wanted to be when I grew up.
Vestal __ What's your favorite thing about being a model?
Nisaa __ My favorite thing about modeling is being able to travel. I have the privilege of traveling to all these significant parts of the world and experiencing so much. Aside from traveling, I love being a model. Getting glammed up and wearing gorgeous outfits is so much fun.
Vestal __ How do you prepare for your fashion shoots? Is there a message you want to keep consistent across your work?
Nisaa __ When preparing for a shoot, I like to get lots of rest which usually means being in bed at 9. So I can wake up refreshed and focus on whatever the day throws at me.
Vestal __ What is the biggest lesson learned while modeling?
Nisaa __ I live by this quote. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less traveled by, and it made all the difference" by Robert Frost, which means staying true to yourself and being yourself, not changing who you are as a person to please others or following others paths just because you see it worked for others. You have to trust the process, and all good things will come to fruition. I didn't always go by this motto; it took me some time to learn this, which allowed doors to open.
Vestal __ What are some of your goals?
Nisaa __ This year, I have accomplished many of my goals as a fashion model. But, my current plan is to create a name for myself that's more than just modeling. I want to start a brand. I want to open my own merchandise franchise business and own my own home.
Vestal __ What era of fashion influences you?
Nisaa __ I would say the 90s influenced me in the way I dress.
Vestal __ What was your first fashion show? Were you nervous?
Nisaa __ Sadly, I do not remember my first show because I didn't know much about the industry, and I was still learning back then. But I do remember being nervous stepping out on the runway. For the most part, it was an energy rush.
Vestal __ You have worked with many reputable creatives; what are some of the most memorable shoots you have done?
Nisaa __My most memorable shoots were with Harper's Bazaar and Steven Meisel. Most recently, I worked with Brandon Blackwood on his first fashion show and shot for Vogue with Kate Martin. Shoots like these, the energy is so significant that these professionals get so in their element that it becomes less about work and more fun.
Vestal __ What would you be doing if you weren't a model?
Nisaa __ If I wasn't modeling, I think I would still be doing something within the fashion industry. When I was younger, I would cut out the clothes from magazines and make my outfits out of the snippets in a composition book.
Jumpsuit VINCE, belt VERSACE, necklaces SWAROVSKI, earring OSCAR DE LA RENTA.
Top and skirt BURBERRY, earrings SWAROVSKI.
Sweatshirt COMME DES GARÇONS, skirt SANDRO.
Vestal __ What do you think about the state of fashion today?
Nisaa __ I have mixed feelings about fashion today because I see a lot of creativity and copying, people stealing styles, and getting more recognition because of a more prominent name. But I love seeing new designers coming up and getting their flowers.
Vestal __ How do you think social media has changed the industry?
Nisaa __ This is another thing I have mixed feelings about because, in a way, I feel it's poisoned the industry making people chase clout and followings over actual talent. But it's also done well by giving people who would typically not get as much recognition a light to shine in.
Vestal __ How do you use social media to your advantage?
Nisaa __ I am rarely on social media; I spend most days working with my clients and spending time with friends and loved ones. Social media can become exhausting. I have a lot more peace of mind by just interacting with humans.
Vestal __ What are some career goals you've set for yourself this year?
Nisaa __ This year was my first time making a goal poster for myself. Things that were on it were to take control of my career, become more involved, and learn more about the business side. Also, I want to be working at least once a week, booking more editorials and campaigns. A big goal of mine is shooting more beauty jobs.
Vestal __ What advice would you give to someone who is just starting modeling today?
Nisaa __ It's a cutthroat industry, and everyone has their opinions; although they are only words, they can get to you over time. People will want to change you to fit their standards, but if you can stay your most authentic self, you'll find a lane for you. There is space for you just as you are.
Jumper DION LEE, skirt SANDRO, shoe YSL.
Bodysuit VERSACE.
Dress PINKO, earrings and ring SWAROVSKI.
Photography Kevin Sinclair, Styling David Gargiulo, Videographer David Walters, Makeup Kevin Cheah Assistant Tugcan Sedat Temizkan, Model Nisaa Pouncey (Creative Talent)