Measurements 

Waist- 23

Hips- 37

Bust- 34 

Height: 5’5

Weight: 110 

Hair/Eye Color: Light Blonde/Copper, Light Blue 

Tell us about yourself:

Hello, my name is Hayden Grace and I’m from Kansas City, Missouri! I’m 19 years old and currently studying photojournalism at the University of Kansas, I have a strong passion for the art of photography- specifically fashion and editorial photography. All my life I’ve been a performer, whether I’m acting, singing, speaking to an audience or modeling! 

Tell us about your modeling experience:

I started modeling as a senior in high school when I was recruited to model prom dresses at a boutique in Kansas City. Before then, I had always been on the other side of the camera but I immediately fell in love with the idea of becoming a model. Over the next year, I began to shoot editorial style photos with the help of well known and highly sought photographers in the KC area. My runway debut began after I auditioned for Kansas City Fashion Week in the spring of 2023 and was selected with no prior experience- I went on to open and close the Friday night show in my first season of runway. 

Since then, I have walked in Omaha Fashion Week S/S ‘24, KCFW S/S ‘24, and soon KCFW F/W ‘24! 

I am so proud of the progress I have made and I’m forever grateful for my past experience as a freelance model. 

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to be invited to the Met Gala by Anna Wintour herself! I want to lead a successful yet balanced life that prioritizes my career, as well as dedication to my family- it is my goal in life to support those who have always believed in my dreams. 

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

To me, being your own kind of beautiful is about appreciation for yourself, no matter where you may be in life. The beauty/fashion industry may push certain standards upon women, but I believe that the true essence of beauty is all about uplifting and embracing our favorite qualities about ourselves, not just what the internet chooses to glorify. Every size, shape, height, and weight is gorgeous and worthy of recognition- everybody is beautiful! 

How would you describe your fashion style?

My personal style is heavily influenced by vintage fashion trends, but applied to modern day design. My favorite place to shop is my mother’s closet- she knew she had amazing style and managed to preserve pieces from the 70’s to the 2000’s which I am lucky to wear today! My fashion icons include Jane Birkin, Twiggy, Grace Kelly, and of course Carrie Bradshaw. 

Who or what inspires you?

My biggest inspiration in life is the idea that you can pursue multiple passions and creative avenues as a method of self-discovery. As humans we are constantly evolving throughout our lives- it’s never too late to try something new or start a new adventure. My mother is an amazing example of this, as she was a Colonel in the US Army while simultaneously reigning as a Miss USA pageant queen, all the while becoming a business owner and single mother. 

What advice would you give someone who is just starting their modeling career?

A piece of advice I would give to anyone who is just beginning their modeling journey- you are worthy of every opportunity you seek! All you need to succeed in this business is confidence and a strong work ethic, not a certain size or height. However cliché it might be, the only person standing in the way of your dreams is you! If you can dream it, you can believe it and go on to achieve it. Never shrink yourself to fit into someone else’s standards, embrace your light and let it shine. 

What are some obstacles you have faced and how have they change or shaped you?

An obstacle that I often encounter in life is my ongoing journey with mental health. Many can relate, especially as an open-minded approach to mental health becomes more common in society. I suffer from Bipolar 2 Disorder, which can affect every facet of my life on a day-to-day basis. As I learn to work with my condition, I enrich my life with passions that feel effortless and empowering, such as modeling. Confidence is key, even when dealing with challenges such as mental health! 

What makes you beautiful?

I feel the most beautiful when I embrace my natural self for who I am. I’ve become so comfortable in my own skin, without makeup, without editing or hiding my body. There’s no better feeling than loving yourself whole-heartedly, flaws and all. 

What would you say to someone who is struggling with their confidence?

To anyone who is struggling to find confidence- there are a few things that I do to uplift myself when I need a reminder. Start by jotting down 5 of your favorite qualities/features about yourself. Think about why, and write that down too. Then think of your 5 least favorite and reflect on why- is it someone else’s opinions that made you feel that way? Find a new way to appreciate them, where they came from, and how to embrace them in a positive light that honors your feelings, try to reassign them as a new strength. Life is all about perspective, and a new outlook on old insecurities just might change how you view yourself every day.