Meet Chloe. A Bay Area transplant who signed with Natural Models LA a year and a half ago. Natural Models LA is an agency we love working with. Their mission is to let models be healthy and happy, while providing them with an opportunity to work as a model at their natural body shape and size. A Cuban sweetheart, Chloe combines a heart of gold, with a spunky yet grounded personality to always keep you guessing. Did we mention she Samba dances?! Let's get to know her a little more...
Chloe Belle - With Love From Venice
At our photoshoot you shared with us that you have had a complicated relationship with your body over the years. Are you open to sharing your story with us?
I developed an eating disorder at the age of 17. I suffered with health problems that fortunately made me wake up and realize this wasn’t the life I wanted to live and that I needed help. I got the support from family and therapy and have been working on my relationship with my body and food ever since. Healing is not easy, there’s lots of setbacks but also the feeling of freedom is incomparable. I’m now at the place where self-acceptance is my main focus.
How did you do the work to get healthy and find healing?
I made sure I had lots of support, I talked a lot about it and didn’t hold it in. I challenged my thoughts and was always honest with the person I saw in the mirror. I read lots of books but also worked with a therapist.
How would you like to see brands address diversity of all forms as it pertains to the models and aesthetic presented to the world?
I would love to see brands hiring more models of color. I would love to see more than just one black model on their website. I would love if they embraced our natural hair texture. I would love if they got rid of “one size fits all” clothing. I would love to see beauty campaigns with curve and plus size women.
We love you, Chloe!
What inspires you?
I get inspired by old music that no one really knows about, the ocean, deep conversations with friends and strangers, and learning about different cultures.
We love your modeling agency and you spoke very highly of them which only solidified our feelings about them. What does it mean to you to be a part of Natural Models?
Being a part of Natural Models has given me so many opportunities that I never imagined would’ve happened in my life. I am extremely grateful for them. I have met so many amazing people and connected with women who have incredible stories that have helped me become a better person. Becoming a model in an agency that is changing the industry, has taught me to love and embrace my curves.
Have you seen positive changes in the fashion industry that encourage you about the future?
I've definitely seen positive changes. I have walked into a few stores that have surprised me with their diversity of models. It warms my heart when I walk into a store and I see someone from my agency. I feel so proud to be with an agency that's challenging America’s beauty standards and winning.
What makes you feel confident?
A nice pair of yoga pants, my hair in cornrows and reading non-fiction books.