I met up with Edel Fleming, who is a model for Prima Models Agency based in the Waterford city and who is currently studying business in Waterford IT but has decided to take a year out this year to delve into her modeling career. As soon as I introduced myself her face lit up and I could readily see she had a fabulous bubbly personality and was very down to earth. Her smile is what struck me the most. She wore a gorgeous cream studded top from River Island, black blazer and black skinny jeans from A/Wear and adorable dolly shoes also from River Island. She expressed that she was 'so flattered' at the offer to be interviewed. The photo I have provided is of Edel at Gorey's 'Boulavard Botuique'.
How did you get into modeling? Did you apply or were you 'discovered'?
"I got discovered in Waterford Shopping Centre, Prima Model Agency also have a HQ in Waterford."
Is being a model as glamorous as it seems?
"Not at all as glamorous as everyone thinks! You really don't get a break and have to work all day long!"
Which fashion magazines, websites or blogs do you visit most often?
"I love sosueme.ie and I'm obsessed with U magazine!! It show cases Irish designers really well."
Who are some of your favorite models and designers, why?
"My two favorite models are Sarah Morrisey and Roz Purcell, they're both gorgeous and Irish!"
How would you describe your personal style?
"I love a classic style. Blacks, creams and white would be what I wear most. They are so chic."
Where do you generally shop?
"River Island and Ruby Rouge mostly."
What modeling jobs have you done?
"Wedding Fairs, catwalks, weekly photo shoots in boutique named Ruby Rouge in Gorey. I've also done a photoshoot for the Sunday World news paper for the races article."
What do you think of Gorey's sense of style in general?
"It's a bit boring, everyone wears the same style. I don't understand why when we have such a wide range of clothing shops in our town."
What do you find most rewarding about modeling?
"It gives you a lot of confidence and you meet a lot of new people."
What do you dislike about modeling?
"Some of the clothes you have to wear are not nice!"
What does fashion mean to you?
"Fashion means looking and feeling good about yourself."
How has modeling changed other aspects of your life?
"It has given me a great confidence boost and self belief."
Do you feel under pressure to be skinny and look a certain way?
"No, not at all! I like to workout so maybe thats why I feel no pressure."
What is your best and worst features in your opinion?
"My best feature is my smile and my worst feature is my lips, I hate them!"
What do you think distinguishes a good model from a bad one?
"I think its all about confidence, if a model does not come across confident she's not doing her job right!"
What cities or towns provide good shopping experiences?
"London is the best city to shop in!"
What has been your favorite outfit to wear to date?
"A dress from Ruby Rouges own label 'Doll'!"
What beauty item can you not leave the house without?
"Mascara!"
What is your favorite fragrance at the moment?
"Daisy by Marc Jacobs by far."
Where do you see yourself in the next few years?
"I would love to open up a modeling agency in Wexford!"
And finally, what advice would you give to aspiring models?
"Always be yourself and don't let anyone push you around."
