Tahlita Van Tonder is an upcoming commercial model from Cape Town in South Africa and is our latest StarNow competition winner. We were honoured when Tahlita agreed to complete a full feature interview with Urbanity Chic so that we could share her portfolio with you and give her an opportunity to tell everyone a bit about herself. Read on to discover which fashion designers Tahlita looks up to, how she prepares for a fashion shoot and what hobbies keep her occupied when she’s not working.
Q: How did you get into fashion modeling?
I was always told that I should get into modeling by friends and family and I just decide that if not, why not?
Q: How was 2010 for you?
I spent 2010 getting my face known and working towards finding an agency. 2011 however has proved to be a lot more fruitful.
Q: Who inspires you?
I should probably say something to the likes of a designer but honestly my biggest inspiration is my mother. She is such a strong woman for single handedly raising me. She is my biggest fan and constantly inspires me to do better and go further.
Q: Which modern day fashion designers or fashion icons do you look up to?
I am a big Victoria Beckham fan. Everywhere she goes she manages to look effortlessly stylish and she has managed to build a brand an become a fashion designer just by being who she is. As much as I hate to admit it, just like all woman I am a shoe addict so my favorite designer is Christian Louboutin. Nothing beats a sky high pair of heels to make you feel sexy.
Q: Do you prefer to shoot on location or in the studio?
Location, location, location. It’s just so much fun and you tend to find yourself in positions that may be rather compromising and still you have to keep your composure.
Q: Do you have any interesting stories about a particular photo shoot, or a casting you’d like to share?
Probably my first beach shoot. Could someone maybe have told me that it isn’t as easy as it looks to freeze and still look attractive?
Q: How do you prepare for a fashion shoot or show?
Drink lots of water the day before, get lots of sleep and on the day of the shoot, try to ignore the nerves!
Q: Is there anybody you would like to work with?
Once again I would love to model for Victoria, Guess and Louis Vuitton.
Q: What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is a way to express your individuality or start a trend.
Q: How would you define your personal style?
I’m not really someone that follows trends. I rather wear what I feel or look good and I often dress according to my mood.
Q: Where are you based?
In the beautiful city of Cape Town, South Africa.
Q: What’s it like being where you’re from?
In our country were encouraged to be proudly South African and although we love to complain, we really do live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Q: What’s been the highlight of your career to date?
I’m still gaining experience but every callback I get is a highlight because I just love that feeling of excitement.
Q: What are you hoping to achieve in 2011?
To work with a big brand like Guess.
Q: What do you do to relax?
Spend time with family and friends. I also love going to the beach, never mind the weather, with just my dog and taking long walks to free my mind and allow myself some time to think.
Q: What songs are on your ipod at the moment?
I have a huuuuge variety but my favorite at the moment is Get on the floor by J’Lo.
Q: Do you have interesting hobbies?
Probably the most interesting and embarrassing is my cross stitching hobby.
Q: If you could give a little piece of advice for new models or aspiring models what would it be?
NEVER give up!
Q: What motivates you to do what you do?
Probably the passion I have for the job. I just love fashion and how good a pair of shoes, jeans or top can make you feel about yourself.
Editor’s Note: Tahlita Van Tonder has made an impressive start into the fashion industry. We’re looking forward to Tahlita’s career progressing as she works on more high-profile projects.
If you’d like to contact or learn more about Tahlita, just follow the links below:
twitter link:twitter.com/TvT130989
facebook link:en-gb.facebook.com/tahlitav