What It Takes to Build a Modeling Career Today

Model: Daniela Belle. Photographer: Tom Marvel.

Based in New York, Daniela Belle is steadily shaping her career in one of the world’s most dynamic fashion markets. The fast pace, constant pressure, and endless opportunities of the city have changed the way she sees modeling. For Daniela, it is not just a passion, but a serious path built on discipline, clear direction, and a defined lifestyle. In conversation with Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam, she shares more about her journey, her working habits, and how she stays balanced in the industry.

Dress: RVNG.

HBZVN: When you first started modeling, what was that moment like for you? Do you remember the first shoot or runway that made you feel, “Yes, this is really happening?

DANIELA BELLE: Since I started so young, modeling originally felt more like a hobby than a career. I’ll never forget the pure shock and joy of seeing my face on a website for the first time after my first ecommerce job. But the true ‘this is really happening’ moment was my debut on the Paris runway as a Givenchy exclusive. Looking back, I think I was almost too young to fully grasp the gravity of that moment, which was probably a blessing for my nerves.

But hitting that runway changed everything. It was the moment I stopped seeing modeling as a side project and realized I was living out a dream on the world’s biggest stage.

Dress: RVNG. Earrings and rings: Fourteen August.

HBZVN: Modeling often means long days, castings, and traveling. What are some small habits or routines that help you stay calm and positive during busy periods?

DANIELA BELLE: I always remind myself that I once dreamed of being this busy. In an industry this unpredictable, gratitude is what keeps me going. Over the years, I’ve learned that rejection is really just redirection. As long as I’m giving my best, I trust that what’s meant for me will find me. To stay sane, I make sure my life doesn’t only revolve around modeling. I’m a full-time student, I love to read, I enjoy sports, and I prioritize time with my loved ones. Having those pillars outside of the industry keeps me grounded. And honestly? If I’m ever spiraling or nervous, watching the first ten minutes of Shrek or Legally Blonde is my ultimate mental reset.

HBZVN: Off duty, when you are not in front of the camera, how would you describe your personal style?

DANIELA BELLE: To be honest, I don’t think I have one set ‘look.’ Because my job is to be a chameleon and wear everyone else’s vision, my off-duty style is really an extension of my mood. I always prioritize comfort, so I might feel classy and polished one day, and completely tomboyish the next. I’m definitely not the ‘brooding’ or nonchalant type. I like my clothes to reflect my actual energy, which is warm, bright, and easygoing. For me, style isn’t about a uniform, it’s about whatever makes me feel most like myself that morning.

HBZVN: Many readers are curious about the practical side of modeling. Could you share your measurements and explain how important proportions and sizing are when working with designers and stylists?

DANIELA BELLE: My measurements are 34-25-35. In this industry, sizing is a practical reality. It often helps define your lane, whether that’s commercial, high fashion, or curve. In high fashion specifically, it’s very ‘fit-to-walk’. You have to fit the designer’s sample size to be in the show. Because of my bust, I’ve found that fitting those specific samples can sometimes be a challenge, even after working with so many incredible stylists and designers. Lately, I’ve been really embracing the commercial side of the industry, which offers a bit more flexibility and longevity. That said, I still have so much love for the artistry of high fashion and truly cherish every opportunity I get to step back into that world..

Dress: RVNG. Rings: Fourteen August.

HBZVN: Fashion is becoming more connected across cultures. Have you ever worked with Vietnamese designers, or is there a style from Vietnam that you find interesting? And also a Philippine designer?

While I haven’t had the opportunity to work with a Vietnamese designer just yet, I’ve been following the scene with a lot of interest. There is a sharp, structural elegance coming out of Vietnam right now that I’d love to experience firsthand. I’m definitely manifesting a collaboration there soon!

My connection to Southeast Asian fashion is deeply personal, as I’m half-Filipino. I’ve been lucky enough to work closely with Vogue Philippines. They really feel like family to me. One of my proudest moments was attending their ‘Vogue Threads’ event at the Palais Galliera in Paris, which showcased the incredible craftsmanship of Filipino designers on a world stage.

Whether it’s through traditional textiles or modern silhouettes, I’m so inspired by how Southeast Asian creatives are bringing our heritage into the global fashion conversation

Dress: RVNG. Rings and cuff: Avermore.

HBZVN: After everything you have experienced in modeling so far, what still makes you smile or feel excited when you step onto a set or runway?

DANIELA BELLE: For me, it’s always the people. Every set or backstage is a melting pot of different backgrounds, cultures, and life stories. Seeing a team of talented individuals so passionate and happy to bring a creative vision to life is what fills me with energy. That feeling honestly never gets old. There is so much to learn from every person you collaborate with, from the photographers to the stylists and the production crew. That’s a big part of why I love working in New York – it’s a city built on people from all walks of life, and that collective ambition is incredibly inspiring.

HBZVN: What is always in your bag when you travel for work? Favorite lipstick? Favorite purse?

DANIELA BELLE: I never leave for work without the essentials: a bottle of water, snacks, earphones, my Kindle, and most importantly, blister tape for my feet. I definitely learned that last one the hard way! I’m never without a lip balm and my go-to lip color. I switch between L’Oréal in ‘Seine Sunset’ and a Filipino tinted lip balm from Sunnies Face in ‘Chai’. I actually stocked up on a whole supply during my last trip to the Philippines.

I keep everything in my favorite Puccini bag. It’s by a Polish designer and it’s the perfect ‘not too big, not too small’ size. It’s black leather, classy but casual, honestly, the perfect bag for navigating a busy day of castings.

Dress: RVNG. Shoes: Christian Louboutin. Rings and cuff: Avermore.

HBZVN: What’s your beauty regime (including brands)?

DANIELA BELLE: I wholeheartedly believe that less is more. Off-duty, I never wear makeup aside from a lip tint; I’d much rather focus on a minimal, effective skincare routine. My morning is all about protection. I start with a Cetaphil Micellar Cleanser, followed by Beauty of Joseon Retinal Eye Cream. If I’m feeling particularly puffy after a flight or a late shoot, I’ll add eye patches for a quick reset. I lock everything in with Avène Cleanance Hydra Moisturizer and never, ever skip my Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen. In the evening, I’m a big believer in the double-cleansing method to truly prep my skin. I use the Beauty of Joseon Cleansing Balm followed by my Cetaphil cleanser, then a richer Lipoactive moisturizer. To keep my skin clear during busy travel periods, I use Paula’s Choice Salicylic Acid twice a week. It’s a simple regime, but it keeps my skin resilient through all the changes of pace.

HBZVN: If you could relive one shoot or runway moment, which one would you choose and why?

DANIELA BELLE: Without a doubt, it would be my first project with Vogue Philippines in January 2023. I traveled there for two weeks to shoot the March cover and a major editorial for the September issue. It was my first time back in the Philippines since I was a baby. That trip gave me so much more than just a portfolio. It was a total immersion into my own culture. It was the first time I met my Filipino family, which was one of the most precious, life changing moments I’ve ever experienced. The project was very physically demanding, which taught me a lot about resilience and professionalism, but the Vogue Philippines team truly treated me like family. Establishing those priceless relationships while discovering my ‘other half’ was a profound honor. I left that shoot not just a better model, but with a much deeper understanding of who I am.

HBZVN: Is there a piece of clothing or accessory you have worn for work that you wished you could have kept?

DANIELA BELLE: I would have kept every single piece of Magda Butrym I’ve ever modeled. She’s a Polish designer who is rapidly making such a powerful mark on the global fashion stage. Her style is the perfect balance of strong, feminine tailoring and romantic details. Also, the gown I wore for the Dior Haute Joaillerie show. There is something about the craftsmanship of Dior that is just transcendent. It was a total ‘princess moment’.

Dress: Balenciaga. Shoes: Tom Ford. Earrings: Fourteen August. Rings: Paige Novick.

HBZVN: What are you listening to on the way to a shoot? Music (which artist’s), podcasts, audio books?

DANIELA BELLE: Taylor Swift is always my go-to to get me in the right headspace for a shoot. I love the versatility of her entire discography. I’ll switch from her high-energy synth-pop to her indie-folk storytelling. To be honest, I’ve never been a big fan of podcasts. I’m a dedicated reader and always prefer a physical book or my Kindle over an audiobook. But if my mom and I happen to be in the same timezone, she is my absolute favorite ‘podcast.’

HBZVN: A fashion trend you dislike and hope never comes back?

DANIELA BELLE: I know they are incredibly popular right now because of the comfort factor and I’m all for comfort, but I just can’t get behind Birkenstocks, especially paired with socks trend. I just can’t make them work.

Dress: Prabal Gurung. Earrings and cuff: Verdura.

HBZVN: If you could work with any designer or brand, who would it be?

DANIELA BELLE: A huge dream of mine is Dior Beauty. I’ve always been drawn to the artistry of beauty shoots. There’s something so precise and intimate about them. Since I personally believe in a ‘less-ismore’ routine, being the face of a brand that defines that kind of timeless, healthy elegance would such a meaningful moment for me Also, Victoria’s Secret is the ultimate goal. I’ve been following the ‚Fantasy’ of those shows for years, and I feel so comfortable and empowered working with lingerie brands. Honestly, becoming an ‘Angel’ would be my absolute ‘I made it’ moment—it’s that one iconic dream that still gives me butterflies every time I think about it.

HBZVN: Do you see modeling as a form of acting or storytelling? How do you get into character for a shoot?

DANIELA BELLE: I definitely see it as storytelling. As I’ve mentioned before, you have to be a chameleon, not just in how you look, but in the energy you bring to the set. Every project is its own unique world with a specific emotion to convey. Since I don’t have a formal acting background, I really rely on the 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. team to help me understand the narrative we’re building. I try to immerse myself in the overall vibe and vision, but it’s the constant feedback and energy from the team that truly help me ‘click’ into character. It’s a collective effort to bring that story to life

Dress: Prabal Gurung. Shoes: Sergio Rossi. Earrings and cuff: Verdura.

HBZVN: Do you feel as though modeling is a vulnerable art? If so, how do you get comfortable being vulnerable with all the different people you work with in the industry?

DANIELA BELLE: I think modeling is a delicate form of art, but I wouldn’t necessarily call it a ‘vulnerable’ one. To thrive in this industry, you actually need very thick skin. You’re dealing with constant travel, rejection, long, physically demanding work days and a level of physical proximity with strangers that you’d never allow in your daily life. It’s hard to stay vulnerable when everyone has an opinion on your look or your body. That said, there is a vulnerable side to the creative process. When you truly immerse yourself in the energy of a shoot and try to bring a story to life, you’re showing a part of yourself. I only feel comfortable opening up that way when I’m working with the right people, those who show their own vulnerability and passion for the project. In those moments, it stops being about ‘the job’ and starts being about a shared human connection.

HBZVN: What qualities do you think make a model stand out beyond just appearance?

DANIELA BELLE: Character is everything. Especially in a city like New York, where you are surrounded by millions of beautiful women, you have to ask yourself: what else do I bring to the table? To truly stand out, you need to be a hard worker and a true professional. For me, that means being humble, staying curious, and having interests outside of the industry. Whether it’s my studies or my personal discipline, being more than just my job is what gives me the resilience to stay grounded. At the end of the day, a beautiful face might get you in the door, but your personality and your work ethic are what keep you in the room.

Dress: Jason Wu Collection. Necklace: Verdura. Earrings: Suzanne Belperron.

HBZVN: Favorite city to work in?

DANIELA BELLE: New York City.

HBZVN: Which do you prefer, couture or casual?

DANIELA BELLE: In my daily life, I’m definitely a casual girl. But I have a deep, immense respect for the art of couture. Over the years I’ve seen the hundreds of hours of hand-stitching and the pure soul that goes into a single piece. It’s truly art. I love the fantasy of wearing it for a few hours on set, but I’m always happy to slip back into my favorite jeans at the end of the day.

HBZVN: What advice do you have for young aspiring models?

DANIELA BELLE: My biggest piece of advice is to put your education first. Even though I started very early, finishing school gave me a foundation that modeling never could. This industry is a master at trying to tear down your self-esteem, so you have to believe in yourself and love yourself first. Build a life and interests outside of fashion. Modeling doesn’t define your worth. What you know to be true about yourself can’t be taken away from you. Be a hard worker, stay humble but don’t be a pushover. Show deep respect for everyone on set, from the photographers to the production assistants while keeping your boundaries. But most importantly: have fun! This career has given me a life I only dreamed of as a child. Traveling the world, becoming independent, and meeting incredible people. It’s a gift, so enjoy the ride.

Dress: Isabel Yagerman. Shoes: Christian Louboutin. Cuff: Paige Novick.

Talent: Daniela Belle @_danielabelle @thelionsmgmt.
Photographer/Producer: Tom Marvel @tommarvelphotography.
Creative Director: Cannon @thecannonmediagroup @ateliermgmt.
Production: @winnie_noan.
Lighting Director: @1muratozdemir1.
Lighting Assistant: Angelos Rompolis.
Director of Video: @phadeevs.
Digital Tech:@wohliviaa.
Digital Artist: retouchingbymarilynn@gmail.com.
Hair: @linhhair | @seemanagement | @amika.
Makeup: @joannegair | @danessa_myricks.
Nails: @tipsxtara | @mtmorgantaylor.
Photographer Assistants: @michelewilhelminaphotography | @polymathicwallace.
Videographer Assistant: @igor.f.momot.
Grip: @gspepe.
Set Producer: @kathleentig.
Fashion Assistant: @s.tephaniewenger | @madisonwengu | @style.by.sabinakahn |
@sofiazinsmeyer | @jackumphrey | @mariorubinoo_ | @nataliarebaza_ | @xoxogoss1pgir1.
Marketing Director: @biljana.cvijetinovic.
Shot at: @un_nyc.
Special thanks to DeVon Jones at The Lions @thelionsmgmt.
Special thanks to Jason and everyone at The Untitled NYC

Harper’s Bazaar Việt Nam

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