Model of the Week: Giulia Theller
Each week, we take the time to highlight one of our favorite emerging models. Previously, we profiled German model Alicia Holtz and this week we’re turning our attention to Giulia Theller. We caught up with her to talk about her career so far, her passion for modeling and her plans for the future.
Nationality: Italian
Hometown: Milan, Italy
Instagram: giulia_theller
Have you always wanted to be a model? If not, what did you want to be growing up?
No, I never thought that I could be a model. I always wanted – and I still want – to graduate in Economics and Finance to become a financial advisor, but I’m also really enjoying these years as a model.
How were you scouted?
When I was 15 years old, I got stopped a couple of times on the streets by some agents, but my mum and I thought that I was too young. So I waited a couple of years and at 17, I attended some castings for different agencies and got signed with WHY NOT (which I definitely consider my ‘second family’).
How would you describe yourself as a model in three words?
Professional, easygoing, unconventional.
Your first modeling job?
My first job was the ‘Dolce & Gabbana Haute Couture’ show in Capri. It was simply amazing!
What is your favorite or most exciting aspect about being a model?
This job is always exciting for many reasons, but to me, the very best aspect of being a model is the fact that I have made some forever friends (real bffs). You may not see each other for years, but every time you catch up is like no time has passed by and you can feel that deep connection as if you spent every single day with them.
Is there anyone that you admire as a role model and why?
I have always deeply admired Doutzen Kroes: I love how strong she is and her commitment to saving endangered species.
What’s been your biggest OMG moment to date?
Probably, my biggest OMG moment has been my first (and also the second) Etam lingerie show. It’s almost like a VS show, lots of gorgeous women who are real goddesses, world-class singers performing live, vertical heels and sexy lingerie everywhere. Last season I was walking next to Cardi B while she was singing one of my favorite songs, and right in front of me was Joan Smalls with her perfect walk and perfect body. It was definitely one of the most exciting moments in my career.
What is your dream shoot/campaign?
My dream campaign would definitely be a beauty campaign: my face is quite asymmetric, and it would mean a lot to me if I could get one of these jobs in the future.
Biggest lesson that modeling has taught you?
Don’t take anything for granted and always strive for your goals. There will always be tough moments in your career, but you have to believe in yourself and never let other people bring you down.
What’s the best life advice you’ve ever received?
Always listen to other people’s opinions and learn as much as you can from them.
How do you stay in shape?
It’s a secret! No, I’m joking…I’m really lucky, I don’t have to think much about my shape. I can eat all kind of food and I love to eat! When I’m home, I try to cook every day because it’s healthier. I don’t do sports anymore, but I used to swim and play volleyball for 10 years and I think it helped in maintaining my good metabolism.
What do you think about fashion? What does it mean to you?
I’ve always loved fashion even before starting my career as a model. To me, fashion is like a way-out from a world made of strict rules and redundant patterns, a world where I used to live in my everyday life at home and in high school, and that I still experience in my university classes. Through fashion, I can express myself to the fullest: my creativity and my artistic inner soul just come out easily and I can show the world a different variation of me everyday. I’m so interested in the fashion industry that I’m also thinking about a hypothetical future job in this world (from another perspective than modeling of course).
If you had to be head to toe in one designer brand for the rest of your life, which would it be?
Miu Miu, definitely. It’s feminine but ‘rock’n’roll’, dark but also floral. It’s like a walking contradiction, and so am I.
How would you describe your style?
It depends on how I wake up in the morning. I love changing styles, from baggy jeans and oversized hoodies to sexy mini-dresses and stilettos. I think women should feel comfortable, beautiful and feminine with everything, no matter what others think. I can just say that my ‘never without’ pieces are double-breasted jackets – I wear them with everything – and red lipstick on (or in the bag).
Denim or leather?
BOTH. Every girl should have a good pair of jeans and a pair of leather pants in their wardrobe: they’re our best friends and match with everything!
Heels or flats?
BOTH (again). Depends on how bad my feet feel after a day’s work…
Vintage or contemporary fashion?
BOTH (again and again). Lol. I love mixing different styles and pieces from different wardrobes including my mom’s or my boyfriend’s!
What is your guilty pleasure?
Candies are my drug.
What’s been your most indulgent purchase since you became a model?
Thanks to my first jobs, I could indulge in a few whims like a pair of Gucci loafers and a Miu Miu clutch.
If you were an emoji, which would you be and why?
Black heart, of course!! Creepy outside and cute inside (and also, I ALWAYS wear black).
When you’re not busy modeling, what are some of your favorite things to do?
I’m still studying so when I’m not busy modeling I attend classes at University, but I also have a jewelry brand because I love rings. I actually always wear some of them, as a representation of those closest to me. They are my way to feel close to my family.
What are you working on now and what do you dream of happening in the future?
At the moment, I am working on a jewelry project (as mentioned above) – simultaneously with university – named IKADO. I developed this brand alongside Laura Tomaselli – who is one of the greatest Italian gemologist and also the product development manager of Efesto Group Srl, the company which supports us. We produce handmade jewels from precious natural stones and ethical metals reflecting the femininity and delicate style inspired by the ancient Japanese art of Ikebana. Actually, follow us on @ikado_milano!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
I’m still thinking about it, I don’t want to put any limit on my opportunities.
Check out Giulia’s profile here and check back next week to find out who our next ‘Model of the Week’ is.
Thank you Giulia for this amazing interview!
Interview by: Clinton Gonsalvez
Special Thanks to Teizeen Haji @ Why Not Model Agency (Milan, Italy).
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