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- Sachin Bhola
“Thankful.”
It’s her latest Facebook status.
With what is essentially a poor man’s publicist, you would expect her Facebook updates to read more like Paris Hilton’s tweets – smug and self-absorbed.
But despite her envy-inducing life (she was discovered by Giambattista Valli himself at the age of 16, she now travels around the world as a top model -- need I go on?), Shelby Coleman remains down-to-earth.
I first met model Shelby Coleman during the production of the Chanel Cruise 2008 fashion show. Her sense of style, race (alongside model Yasmin Warsame, she was one of only two colored models casted for the show; incidentally, Warsame was kicked out of the show due to her tardiness) and natural poise were notable.
Two years later, at the young age of 18, she is wise beyond her years. Here, she offers modeling advice and talks to me about her experience on and off the runway.
About Shelby Coleman
Sachin Bhola: How did you get started in the business?
Shelby Coleman: I did some modeling in Chicago, my hometown, since I was about 13. I was more focused on school though, so I would only do local jobs. Then, when I turned 16, I was at a casting for a Giambattista Valli trunk show in Chicago. He saw me and told me he wanted me to do his fall show in Paris. So I went, and then IMG found me and signed me.
Shelby: Definitely being brought to Paris for the first time and walking for a top designer.
Sachin: What do you wish to achieve in the future – on and off the runway?
Shelby: My goal is to bring something new to the fashion world and eventually become a household name. As well as to be an inspiration for young black models and young girls in general. At the same time, to start a family and surround myself with the people I love.
Modeling Advice From Shelby Coleman
Sachin: What challenges have you faced in the industry? How are you overcoming them?
Shebly: Rejection is normal in the industry. Coming into this not knowing that was very tough, but now I don't even think twice about it. If I don't get a job for whatever reason, I say "oh well" and focus on the next job/casting I have.
Sachin: What are some common mistakes new models make?
Shelby: Getting all worked up and offended when not booked for jobs. Don't take it personally!
Shelby: My family couldn't care less about what magazines I'm in or what store my picture is hanging in. They will still tease me and give me crap about everyday things. One time my mom booked a ticket from New York back to Chicago because I wasn't focused on school work. She said that if I don't step it up then we're going home. That was when I first started, so I know better now. Hah!
Sachin: What has modeling taught you about life?
Shelby: More than any book has ever taught me! I've learned so much, it's crazy. I've learned how to carry myself better, deal with people judging me on a daily basis, and how to be very independent at a young age. Not to mention the huge amount of people I meet from around the world and how their lifestyles are so much more different than mine.
Shelby Coleman On Fashion & Style
Sachin: Who is your favorite model? Favorite designer?
Shelby: Liya Kebede is my favorite model. She's an obvious and classic beauty yet she's unique. My favorite designers are Alexander Wang, Giambattista Valli, Marc Jacobs, Balmain, and Gucci.
Sachin: If you had to boil your wardrobe down to 5 pieces, what would they be?
Shelby: Tight jeans, my delicious Burberry heels, a simple white tee, a blazer, and a sexy short dress.
Sachin: What’s on your iPod playlist these days?
Shelby: Lil Wayne is all over it. I also have Coldplay, Beyonce and Lady GaGa.
Thank you, Shelby! You're beautiful inside and out :)
For more photos of Shelby Coleman, check out her profile on Style.com.
