Age: 28

Measurements:

Waist: 25

Hips: 35

Bust: 34

Height: 5'4

Weight: 118 lb.

Hair/ Eye Color: Brown/ Green

Tell us about yourself (where are you from, age, whatever you want to add)

My name is Anna Martiradonna, I am a 28-year-old American Italian from Chicago Illinois. I have been living in Lakeview, close to Wrigley Field for over 9 years now, and loving the city life!

I am the second generation of my Italian family here in the United States, but most of my family is still back in Southern Italy on the Mediterranean side (Bari and Puglia).  Being a proud American Italian comes with the whole territory for my love of life, food, and family. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, reading, yoga/dancing/working out, spending time with my family and friends, and laying out by the water if that is on the beach, a boat, or the lake. I truly enjoy being active and being in nature as my favorite pass time. 

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

Experience:

• Print and Commercial Modeling: Best Chicago Bars Magazine, MMA Apparel, Sports Posters for JohnBarley Corn/Old Crow/Moe's Cantina, Professional Test Shoots

• Runway: Francesca's Boutique, Chitown Showgirls, Bikini, and Formal attire

• Promotional Modeling/Brand Ambassador: CMG Models and Talent, Across the Nation, JohnBarley Corn Enterprise, Tradeshow Conventions; Auto and Boat shows, Shift Gig, Skinny Girl Vodka, Harley Davidson, Tesla Motors, Uber Promotions, (been doing various promo/brand gigs for 10+ years)

• Film/Acting: Background Office Employee for Empire Season 3, Productions Assistant- 48-hour film project, Background actor- 48-hour film project.

• Dance: Guest Experience talent, Zhantra Chicago nightlife entertainment, I have over 20 years of dance experience.

What is your biggest dream?

I have many dreams, but one of my biggest long-term dreams is to be able to open up luxury boutique hotels in some of my favorite travel destinations. An Italian vineyard bed and breakfast anyone?  Some of the proceeds from my hotels would go to women or children who have been trafficked. Also, another dream of mine is to be able to buy a home for my mom. Lastly, I have always dreamt of being a model from a young age, to be the face of a brand I love or one of their go-to catalog models. Shooting with different photographers and walking the runway in Milan, Paris, or New York.

What does it mean to be your own kind of beautiful?

To be beautiful means to be comfortable in one's own skin and being a light in the world for good; spreading love and acceptance. Being beautiful comes from the inside and shines outwards and those who see the beauty in everything appreciate everything and want for nothing.

How would you describe your fashion style?

I would describe my fashion style as a feminine romantic with a seductive edge. I love wearing all things summer, dresses, skirts, bikinis, but also fall classics like structured blazers and all the cute booties and jeans! Favorite fall look, a skirt, some knee-high boots, and a cozy-chic sweater. 

Who or what inspires you?

My mom is 100%, my role model, but in the fashion world, some of my favorite fashion/beauty icons include Audrey Hepburn, Victoria Beckham, Rose Huntington Whitely, and Brittany Murphey in Love and Other Disasters (the movie). Lots of my inspiration come from nature, florals, natural textures, and elements. Also, anything in the luxury hotel market from the scents they use to the dreamy views and bedding I try to make my home resemble that vibe as much as possible. 

What is your advice to someone who is just getting started with modeling?

If I could advise anyone starting out in the modeling industry, I would say to take lots of pictures and work with a lot of different photographers. Get comfortable in front of a mirror and camera and work on being your best self. I believe the happiest people are the prettiest, and when you are happy and confident in yourself you have a constant natural glow around you! 

Describe some obstacles you have overcome in your life and how that has changed or shaped you.

One obstacle that I face was when my parents were going through their divorce, it was very abrupt and drastic. I found out all in the same month that they would no longer be together and I would have less than a month to figure out where I was going to live. I had to drop out of college (in my first year), and start working full-time to make ends meet. This has definitely changed who I am today, I since have gone back to college, graduated, and started my own business. This experience made me strong and resourceful, it took me a while to get back on my feet but I do also feel like I appreciate all that I have and where I have come.

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

I believe what makes me beautiful is my attitude and perspective on life, I have always had a cheerful disposition and can see the positive in any situation. I love life and I believe it is meant to be enjoyed with those you love. Also, people tell me I have beautiful luscious hair and sparkling green eyes.

What would you say to another girl/guy your age who is struggling with their confidence?

If I was helping someone regain or find their confidence, I would ask them to say 3 things they like about themselves, something that they are proud of or accomplished, and have them strike some poses or have a dance party. Also, let them know that they are not alone, everyone feels this way sometimes and the best thing you can do to gain more confidence is to keep moving forward. Keep doing the thing that scares you and when you accomplish your goals the confidence will be there.