Lizzie Swanson Walks For Valentino Cruise 2018
Lizzie Swanson represented the USA at the Elite Model Look World Final 2016 in Lisbon. Landing a place in the Top 15, she won a global model contract with Elite. Less than a year later, she has walked in her first high fashion runway show, for Valentino Cruise 2018 in New York. This follows an appearance modelling at the Met Gala 2017, fashion’s most prestigious red carpet event. We caught up with her to talk all about it.
Tell us about what it felt like to find out that you were in the show!
Vong at Elite Paris first told me about the show, and then Darren at The Society emailed me the Friday before the show saying that I had a request casting the next day. On Monday, Nico at The Society emailed me saying I have the Valentino fitting that day, so I drove to New York City and tried on the clothes for the show and walked in front of the crew. Darren called me about 30 minutes after the fitting to tell me that I would be walking in the show the next day! It was an indescribable feeling of joy!
How was the show?
The show was so amazing! The collection was stunning and I didn't feel nervous walking because of all the previous practice I had from Elite Model Look! It was amazing to be surrounded by such talented people. It was so exciting to walk and to be included in such a beautiful show. I was so happy!
What was it like backstage? Anything good to eat?
Call time was 5 a.m. It was very busy, all the girls had to get hair and makeup done in a short amount of time! Pat McGrath was the head of the makeup team, it was a dream come true to work with her. Backstage, it a time to be together and enjoy the moment. I was hanging out with girls from The Society such as Johanna Defant, who is an absolute sweetheart! I got to chat with Yasmin Wijnaldum and Faretta and well as Irina Djuranovic, who is such a sweet and supportive person. There was a mini buffet of muffins, fruits, and yummy yogurt parfaits. Oh, and lots and lots of coffee and water!
You also worked at the Met Gala! So cool. What was that like?
The Met Gala was incredible! I was so lucky to have been chosen to go to it. The other models and I got the chance to line the inside of the Met and greet the incoming guests. After that, one other model and I were asked to stand at the entrance of the dinner and greet people who were entering. I had the chance to talk to many of the guests, including models, actors, and spokespeople whom I have adored since childhood! Working with the stylist Sara Moonves and the hair stylist Julien D'ys was an absolute dream come true. It couldn't have been more magical!
Did you see any famous people up close when you worked at the Met Gala?
Yes! I told Karlie Kloss that I was accepted into the same program at New York University that she is in and she gave me tons of advice and words of encouragement. Before leaving she replied "I'll see you in class!" and gave me a big hug. It was unreal! At first I thought I would be starstruck by all of the amazing people, and I was, but I soon began to feel more confident and proud that I was at such a prestigious event as them. They were so approachable and kind and started conversations with me, and it made me realize that they are all down to earth humans as well.
You are signed to Elite Paris as your mother agent – how does that feel?
I could not be more happy! Everyone there is so supportive and they are truly amazing people. From Iris to Vong to Jasper to Monika to Evane and to all of the amazing people, I feel truly blessed to have such an incredible second family. They are some of the best people I know and I couldn't feel more fortunate.
What are you excited about doing next?
Right now, I am finishing my senior year of high school, and I got accepted to my top choice of college, The Gallatin School of Individualized Study at New York University! I may take time off from school in the future depending on my work, but I will definitely be able to continue my studies one day. I am still doing more castings, I am going to Paris at the end of June and will hopefully be doing some Couture shows! Coming up in the Fall, I am planning on doing the fashion weeks. So far, everything has been so great, I’m really excited!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
To enjoy every moment, stay true to who you are, and be grateful!
