Lornalitz Baez, also known as Lola, is a Latin American curve fashion model represented by TRUE Model Management. She is also an actress, television personality, businesswoman and entrepreneur.
She became interested in pursuing a career in modeling at age 12, competing in several beauty pageants throughout her adolescence, one of them being Miss Puerto Rico national day beauty pageant, finishing first runner up. Lornalitz began her modeling career at age 17 when she was named the top-three finalist as the face of Jennifer Lopez clothing line. This was an incredible feat considering there were over 1300 models auditioning. Soon after her career sky rocketed, gracing the pages of Vibe magazine, Complex Magazine, Urban Latino Magazine, EGO magazine (Puerto Rico) and Salon Sense. She was also the spokes model - featured in store billboard model for Enyce, Pelle (Europe), G-Unit, Avlon hair (Brazil) and Seagram's Gin. She walked in Mercedes Benz fashion week (NYC) for fashion designers Roca wear, Baby Phat, Azzure, DaDa and Lady Enyce. In Puerto Rico she graced the runway for designer Juan Colon during PR High Fashion week.
In 2008, Lornalitz was chosen as the first full figure model on NUVOtv hit show "Model Latina season 4". A modeling reality television show that gives Latinas of all heights shapes and sizes a chance to win a huge modeling contract. Lornalitz's story, ambition and personality certainly shined through as she was offered by NUVOtv to appear on her own reality show called "Curvy Girls". Since then, she has continued to model print campaigns for top brand companies such as Torrid, Nordstrom Rack, Kmart, Ashley Stewart, NYDJ, Fashion to Figure, Ross, just to name a few. She was featured in Volup2 UK magazine, Slink Magazine, Cover model of Skorch Magazine and Daily Venus Diva. She was featured in the May 2015 issue of Latina Magazine and is currently a Style contributor for Latina Magazine.
Marie Claire and Cosmo for Latina recently ran an online feature on Lornalitz as one of the gorgeous Latina models changing the industry. When interviewed by 'The Nikki Gomez Show' on her move to Los Angeles from New York City, she stated, "I've always loved L.A. and dreamt of living here but one important factor which made my move so easy was having the opportunity to model for the Top Full Figured Clothing Brand 'Torrid'. It's been a dream come true to model for them a little over 2 years now, and I am so thankful. I Love Torrid."
Broadwayworld.com Fashion had the opportunity to interview Lornalitz Baez about her modeling career.
What was your first modeling experience?
My first modeling experience was a test photo shoot at age 12; I had braces, hair in bun and a late 90's trendy outfit. Ha ha! It is quite funny to look at those images now but it shows I've come a long way.
What has inspired your modeling career?
From age five, I remember taking pictures, posing, looking at fashion magazines and runway shows while imagining myself on the cover and catwalk. The passion for modeling has always been inside of me. My parents saw my enthusiasm and supported me all along. My deep passion has inspired me to pursue a successful career in fashion modeling.
Who are some of your mentors in the business?
Alexandra Boos, a former full-figured Supermodel, is the one whom I am happy to call my mentor. She has over a decade of experience in the field of modeling and acting. With her expertise and knowledge, Alexandra guides me in the right direction, offers advice and has become a well-respected friend.
Tell us about one of your favorite modeling experiences.
I have had so many amazing modeling experiences, but one in particular from my early career stands out in my mind. I was chosen to be the Spokesmodel of Seagram's Gin. My manager at the time, called me to tell me the representatives loved my look, would like to place me as the cover model and book me again to be the face of Seagram's. This meant I had a life-sized standing-image of me all across National Liquor stores, as well as being the cover model on their calendar. This was a pretty big deal back then for my family and close friends; especially since I was young.
What are some of your favorite fashion trends?
My favorite fashion trend at the moment is the slip dress. Its soft, silky material is comfortable to wear, weightless, and could be styled sexy or femininely chic. I also love the pantsuit trend. There is something about menswear inspired styles that I find so sexy.
What would you like to do in the future in your career?
I am currently acting and hosting. I want to continue modeling, as long they will have me. I also want to put my business degree to use. I have always imagined owning my own talent agency and my own restaurant. There are a few more ideas I have in mind as well!
What advice would you give others who wish to have a modeling career?
I receive countless social media messages asking for modeling advice and I always say that modeling is a business. In addition to being photogenic and having accurate measurements, you must be professional, positive, punctual, pleasant, and easy to work with. It is not all about the glitz and glamour: it is hard work and you have to be prepared. Most importantly, you must have unshakable confidence in yourself at all times. With faith, determination and preparation you can succeed in the modeling industry (this applies to any career goal.)
To learn more about Lornalitz Baez and to view her portfolio with TRUE Model Management, visit http://truemodel.net/gallery-detail.php?c1=curves&c2=curves_mainboard&modelid=432&catid=34.
You can also follow her on social media at the following links: IG @Lornalitz - Twitter @Lornalitz - FB www.facebook.com/LornalitzB
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lornalitz Baez
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