Meet Alexa! Our Sizzling Swimsuit Summer Cover Model!

FabUplus Magazine had the pleasure of interviewing Alexa Phelece, a plus size model, activist, public figure, and social media influencer.

Sizzling Swimsuit Issue Cover Model

Congratulations on all of your success as a Plus Size Model. How did you get started modeling?

Most women have a fairytale story of their long-lost dream of becoming a model, but mine is different. When I was younger I dreamed of being in the entertainment industry. But truthfully, I wanted to be a businesswoman. I wanted to own a company and create a nonprofit. I kind of just tripped over my modeling career. An opportunity presented itself and from there it snowballed. I had booked my first campaign shoot within two months. I didn’t even have an agent at the time!

What has been your favorite experience thus far — the one you are most proud of?

I’ve been blessed with so many incredible opportunities over the past 2 years. I didn’t grow up dreaming about this. My confidence changed my life; the process of learning how to love myself changed everything. Starting my own nonprofit EveryBodyDeservesLove.org gave me purpose and even more confidence to keep pushing my love for equality in the fashion industry.

Just like any craft, there is a learning curve — how did you learn how to model — both print and runway if applicable?

In the very beginning, my first time modeling, I met some very experienced models who gave me great advice. I had to educate myself and learn. I worked hard; the plus size industry is hard to be successful in. Giving 110% made me want to take pride in my craft. The learning never stops.

Did you have mentors or role models who helped and inspired you along the way?

I have such a great appreciation for the trailblazers in the industry. Ashley Graham has been a huge influence on my career and goals.

The Plus Size Industry has changed and continues to evolve — how do you think as a model you are able to help make an impact in how the world sees plus size women? 

My mission as a plus size model and public figure is to remind individuals continually that they deserve to love themselves as they are. I want to use my platform on social media to make a positive impact in the world and in the fashion industry. The higher I rise, the more I want to lift everyone else up with me.

Sizzling Swimsuit Issue Cover Model

You exude confidence with every step you take, were you always this confident? Tell us a little bit about the journey to confidence.

Self-love is like a muscle: you have to work at it and maintain it. I wasn’t always this confident as a girl. But I lived by “fake it ‘til you make it.” People always thought I was confident because I came off as a bubbly girl. I felt like I had to overcompensate because I didn’t look anything like my beautiful twin sister. I compared myself to her. She’s my hairstylist and best friend now but I just had to learn that we are both beautiful in our own individual way.

For our readers who are interested in starting a plus model career, what would you suggest are some top tips to get started?

EDUCATE YOURSELF – this stuff is hard. I’m serious, you have to be ready to fight for yourself, stick up for yourself, keep growing your confidence, and keep honing your craft.

As a model you’ve had the opportunity to wear a variety of different styles, but what would we catch you in on an ‘off duty’ day? What would you call your fashion sense and how has this evolved through your modeling career?

Aside from modeling, I also run a social media management business with my business partner and best friend. When I’m not meeting with clients or production teams, I’m in activewear! I love workout clothes, they’re sooo comfortable. Out and about I have this “vintage fashion meets streetwear” style.

What does life look for you outside of the modeling world?

A day in the life of Alexa – are you ready? It starts with an intense workout then a walk with my beloved dog PNUT. Then I’m bouncing around supporting my self-love-based nonprofit everybodydeserveslove.org  @everybodydeserveslove_ managing my social media business, client meetings, working as a fit and print model in LA and NYC, producing meaningful content, and trying to inspire people on my own social media platforms. I also love to travel. I’m off to Egypt next week. Some say I’m really busy, but my passion drives me. It makes me feel fulfilled. I have some BIGGG projects coming up too, so stay tuned.

Thank you for taking time to chat with us today! What is one message you would like to leave with our readers today?

No matter what you do in life, make sure it fills you with joy. You can’t give a hoot about what anyone else thinks. You’re amazing the way you are. Find the confidence to do what you really truly love. SHOOT FOR THE STARS BABY!

 

Alexa Phelece is our Summer 2018 Cover Model. Click here to find out where you can pick up your copy NOW!
Website/Blog:  www.alexaphelece.com
Facebook:  Alexa Phelece
Twitter: @alexaphelece
Instagram: @alexaphelece
YouTube: www.tinyurl.com/sugarplusspice
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