By David Shin
The next time you open Vogue or GQ, you may recognize a familiar face. Once TCNJ’s first ever Campus Cutie and a recent graduate of TCNJ’s Class of 2014, Kacey Carrig now graces the runway from New York to Milan. Carrig began his modeling career after he became a finalist in the Vman Model Search. It was through this competition that Ford Models discovered him and signed him to their agency. Known to be one of the most prestigious agencies in the world, legendary models such as Twiggy, Christie Brinkley and Janice Dickinson have walked through the doors of Ford.
Balancing college and a blossoming modeling career takes a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication. It also requires the help of a nurturing team of individuals who have one’s best interest at heart. In an industry of superficiality and self-interest, Carrig describes his relationship with the agency and his agent as genuine and supportive.
“I am truly grateful that the people who are out getting me jobs and fighting for me are the same people I know will answer my phone call in the middle night to answer or help with anything going on in my life.” They understood school was a priority and accommodated his needs while he was pulled in countless directions at once.
The attentive approach of Carrig’s team of agents played an integral role in the success of his career. Whether it’s walking in fashion shows or landing an international editorial campaign, he shared that “working with Ford has opened doors and has given me countless opportunities and experiences that I never could’ve imagined possible.”
It is undeniable that the camera gravitates towards Carrig’s immaculate jawline and glistening smile. This past fall he graced the runway at New York Fashion Week walking for Parke & Ronen. Doing runway is one of his favorite things in modeling. He compared the feeling to playing in a large sporting event describing it as getting the “same kind of butterflies.”
When Carrig isn’t walking the runway he’s modeling for international editorial campaigns for designers like Donatella Versace. Last year, he worked alongside one of the most iconic models in history, Kate Moss. Together they created a visual masterpiece that was seen by fashion connoisseurs everywhere. Versace enlisted Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott to direct and photograph this campaign. Some of their other major fashion clients include labels such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Givenchy, just to name a few. Collaborating with artists of this caliber was surreal for Carrig. As someone from a small town in New Jersey, this was an unbelievable opportunity that could never be forgotten.
Aside from all the glitz and glamour of the fashion world, Kacey Carrig holds remains humble. Carrig is one supermodel that appreciates all the blessings he has received. As he continues on his journey, our original Campus Cutie looks forward to the future. When asked about his next endeavour, he expressed his hopes of breaking into the acting world.
Best of luck, Kacey!