Fun, modest, smart, and jaw-droppingly gorgeous, I had the extreme pleasure of interviewing one of Richmond’s finest alternative models: Rachel Dashae. Tattoos, nude shoots, and far-away destinations are just some of the few extravagancies that inhabit Ms. Dashae’s world. Sitting across from her at a Starbucks on a beautiful Wednesday, I realize now how the weather matched how bright and happy Ms. Dashae was as she graciously answered my questions as well as my prodding about some of the more “controversial” insights of her occupation. I have never met a real model before, so I was terrified I was going to fan girl her like I did when I first met her, briefly (I tend to fan girl people I admire).
(photo credit: Marie Killen)
What were some difficulties you faced?
My height *laughs* (psst she’s 4’’10 by the way guys. I towered over her in my heeled boots but she was way above me in confidence and attitude).
Do you face any dangers?
One definitely has to be careful. For most girls, they need to have to have good head on their shoulders to be in this industry. Check references, ask girls and boys who shot with the photographer, and don’t do anything if you get an uncomfortable feeling from it.
Do your folks help you out?
Not really. We’ve always been middle-class. I’ve had stuff, but I’ve never been spoiled. I’ve always known I had to work to get what I want.
What was high school like?
High school SUCKED. That’s as eloquent as I can put it. Basically, I had ugly-duckling syndrome. I had ugly glasses, so in ninth grade I decided to ditch them so I was basically blind for that year. I was awkward, I was the goth kid. You know in school there was always that one goth kid? That was me.
What is an “alternative model?”
The standard is tattoos, piercings, etc. They have that more edgy, gothic style.
I am the standard to the alternative.
(photo credit: Marie Killen)
Do you do fetish work?
Personally, I’m not interested in photographing it. I’ve done some work. I understand the lifestyle, and I think it’s awesome. It’s just not for me.
What’s the funnest thing about your job?
Probably meeting people. I meet all kinds of people. I meet artists, people who work for the government, senators, and a foot fetish artist. They are interesting experiences.
Is it hard to keep healthy?
Sometimes, when you’re traveling. You have to watch what you’re eating when you’re driving. Starbucks is dangerous for me, because I’m like HMMMM lemon cake.
How does your boyfriend feel about your modeling?
He loves it. Sometimes, he will see a picture and say something like “I love your boobs in this shot” and I’m just like that’s not what it’s all about. I want him to see the entire thing, not just one aspect of the photograph.
Who/What are your inspirations?
Definitely clothes, fashion, and style inspire me. Even if it’s nude work, because you can bring fashion into it.
Are you interested in Vogue/Seventeen/Cosmo?
I would love to, if the day would ever come. I have been on Italian Vogue’s website, but that’s been it.
Do you make a good living off modeling?
I do, this is my full-time plus more. I pay all my bills, I go out, I make a living. I can do everything I need to do.
Would you ever want to move? NYC, California, Europe?
Yeah. *laughs* I think the only place I really love is Philly because it’s close enough to NYC. I have a love/hate relationship with NYC.
It’s too busy
Too expensive
Can’t have a car
(photo credit: Joseph Berhosky)
Any regrets about the path you’ve chosen?
No, not at all. I think the only thing I might regret is not starting it sooner or not taking it seriously sooner.
So you cage dance on the side? How did you get that job?
The people asked me if I’d be interested in it and I said yes. I’ve been cage dancing for two years.
What are your aspirations or dreams for the future?
I definitely want to be internationally published one more time. I’ve been in a magazine that was published all over (Inked Girls Issue #1). I want that one more time. It looks good on a resume.
Would you mentor?
Definitely. I was looking for someone last year when I needed help. Now, I’ve gotten better at organizing my time.
Any advice for aspiring models?
Being humble is a big one. Make sure you take yourself seriously. Be safe, check references. Try to be self-sufficient. And by that, I mean be good with money and know how to do your own styling.
Keep a look out for the magnificently bright and gorgeous model Rachel Dashae everyone! Remember VCU students, she is looking for someone to mentor! Be sure to check out her Facebook fan page and her Tumblr!