Paloma Cruz: made around the world

Paloma is very focused on education: she is getting a degree in Business Economics at Harvard University and also working as a teaching assistant there. It has always been her dream to pursue modeling and go against the preconceived notion of a woman having to choose between beauty and intellect. She wants to be a role model for women and empower them to achieve their goals.

What character traits show your Spanish, French and Italian blood, and in what way are you a true American?

I attribute my social nature to my Spanish Blood. I am a lively person and enjoy conversing and meeting new people. My French side examplifies itself in my attention to detail and appreciation for the aesthetic. My Italian blood shows through in my love for food and my ability to take risks. However, I am a true American in the sense that I have adopted a fast-paced consumer focused lifestyle and am very competitive.

You is getting a degree in Business Economics. How are you planning to apply this education in the future? Do you have an idea for your own business and in what area?

I always had an interest in business and wanted to learn about markets at the micro and macro level. While at the University of Chicago I double majored in International Studies and East Asian languages and civilization with a minor in linguistics. From studying international relations I became curious as to why some countries develop faster than others. I then went to law school and graduated with a focus on International Law. I learned about the rule of law, labor, tax, and health policy through the lens of comparative law. This led me to my next question of why economic markets are the driving forces of social progress. I wanted to learn more about markets and realized I needed an economics background. I recently completed my graduate coursework and received a certificate in Business Economics from Harvard University. I hope to find outlet to channel my passion for language, law, and economics. Ideally I would like to run an organization that improves people’s access to higher education.

Why is modeling attractive to you?

I enjoy modeling because it allows me to express myself. I appreciate that each photo tells a story. Through modeling I have had the opportunity to travel, make great friends, and have new experiences.

What shooting do you remember most vividly?

On this shoot I actually slipped and fell into a pond wearing an evening gown and did my best to carryon and continue posing. The set director started to through bait in the pond so that the fish would circle around me and that was how the photo was created.

What are your favorite designers and clothing brands?

My favorite creative director is Olivier Rousteing for Balmain. I like his combinations of classic Parisian silhouettes such as broad shouldered tweed blazer with a modern flair of pop culture piercing through via a gold chain. Other brands that I appreciate are Jacquemus, Gucci, David Koma, and Cult Gaia.

What piece of clothing do you find the most versatile?

I find a leather jacket the most versatile. Depending on the color, a leather jacket can function as a statement piece. A collared leather jacket can enhance a look by making it a bit edgier. A drape front collarless leather jacket also has the ability to soften an outfit.

What is this the best outfit for summer 2021 for you?

The best outfit for myself this summer is a midi slip dress with a matching face mask paired with a wraparound leather sandal.

Are there things that you will never wear?

I will not wear mohair because I am allergic. I choose to not wear large houndstooth prints because I do not think it is figure flattering.

Model: PALOMA CRUZ / @chic.paloma

Photographer: OLLY VENTO / @ollyvento

Make-up & Hair: JULIANA BURDIUGOVA / @mymakeupmiami

PR: LSA PUBLICATIONS / @leo.alderman / @lsapublications

Clothing Stylist: PALOMA CRUZ / @stylechic.paloma

Clothing – CULT GAIA, shoes – BOTTEGA VENETA, earrings – SAINT LAURENT