Bold, strong & true to herself: #ChromatBABE Paola Horber
Paola in the Strata Bodysuit
Get to know #ChromatBABE Paola Horber, an inspiring spirit from the Dominican Republic who slayed our SS18 Serenity runway show and shot the collection with photographer Anastasia Garcia.
-Are there any women in your life right now that give you strength?
Without a doubt my mother- she inspires me everyday to be better person, to not conform and to have faith beyond your circumstances.
-Who were some of your role models when you were growing up?
When I was 13 years old I saw the first Dominican women become Miss Universe. Amelia Vega inspired me when she demonstrated with confidence that a Dominican woman can excel in the world. Her personality and performance on the show moved me. It helped me believe that I could also become a model, be known internationally as many other Dominican women who have represented my country well.
-What has been your family's reaction to your accomplishments as a model?
They’ve always been happy for me, since the beginning they have been literally living the dream with me! In every achievement I make, they show me how proud they are and even when I don’t get selecting in castings they have always supported me.
Paola in the Strata Bodysuit
-You’re originally from the Dominican Republic. What inspired you to move to NYC, and how has being Dominican influenced your work?
Dominican Republic is an island with few modeling opportunities due to the low resources in the country. I’ve always being ambitious about what I want. After I won the best runway for the Elite Model Look contest; I did some modeling jobs with an agent, expecting an international contract and it did not happened. I decided to go freelance.
Afterwards, I did CARIBBEAN Fashion Week and there was a coach there who told me very intently that I should be modeling in New York. I decided to go by myself to get a modeling contract and move to NYC. Being a Dominican, I have been highlighted from other models, due to my charisma and persistence of a better future that my culture has taught me.
-What was your experience shooting Chromat with photographer Anastasia Garcia?
Pretty awesome! I felt very comfortable, loved her energy and being able to shoot with her was a great experience! In all her work she is embracing the woman to be unique and step away from parameters and stereotypes. She shows through her images the beauty of a woman to be themselves through her lens.
Backstage at SS18 photo by Phillip Banks
-What does being a #ChromatBABE mean to you?
It means a lot. The first time I saw Chromat at NYFW I was amazed and immediately felt identified. Instantly I wanted to be a part of the Chromat world! Now I am!!!
Being a #ChromatBABE is to be bold, strong, stay true to myself and to not give up through all the obstacles.
-What article of clothing or way of presenting makes you feel powerful?
Showing my legs automatically makes me feel powerful. My legs are my favorite attribute that I cherish of myself.
Paola in the Mica Ribbed Suit. Photo by Phillip Banks
-What's your favorite Chromat piece and why?
The Chromat Amelia Suit because is super modern! Love how it creates a beautiful silhouette over the body shape. It is mixes the elegant in the front but sexy and unexpected in the back!
-You’ve walked many runways- from Project Runway to the Chromat runway. What does it feel like to walk the runways? Do you get nervous?
Getting a bit nervous before the show is natural no matter how expert you are, anything can happen!
In my case, as soon as I take the first step on stage every fear goes away because I’m doing what I love.
Walking the runway is my favorite part of modeling. Being able to perform is such a wonderful feeling.
Victoria Gomez in the Strata Suit, Tea Benton, Paola in the Mica Ribbed Suit. Photo by Daniel Sims
-If you weren't in the fashion industry, what other profession could you see yourself in?
Apart from modeling, I’m a journalist and a professional dancer, so in one way or another I would be involved in arts and culture. If I weren’t in the fashion industry, I could see myself in the crowd. I love to be an inspiration to others and encourage young girls to find their inner confidence.
Victoria Gomez in the Strata Suit, Tea Benton, Paola in the Mica Ribbed Suit. Photo by Daniel Sims
-What advice would you give to your younger self at age 15?
Don’t get upset when people tell you that you aren’t capable, not enough, or they judge your physical self. Take those circumstances and let them make you stronger and rise above. Show them that you can do it!
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Photos by Anastasia Garcia
Models: Chloe Vero @ JAG and Paola Horber @ EMG
Accessories by Creepy Yeha + Melissa
Styled by Martin Tordby
Hair by Beth Shanefelter
Makeup by Fatima Thomas
Shop SS18 Serenity here.
