Work Hard & Embrace Your Weirdness: Interview with Gabi Gonzalez
By Jan Crystal
If you are in the fashion industry in Arizona, chances are you’ve either worked with or heard of Gabi Gonzalez. At a young age, Gabi has become a serious force in the modeling world that extends beyond Arizona, yet, her love for her friends, family and animals keep her grounded.
From New York Times Square billboard appearances to countless Arizona fashion shows, Gabi got her first taste of modeling by being featured for Quinceañera Magazine. “My journey began when I needed to learn how to walk in heels and a dress for my quince.” With determination and help from her support system, Gabi successfully built a modeling career and now enjoys being in pageants, as well.
Modeling is a tough industry and Gabi has had to face challenges. “Me being 5’6” is hard sometimes when some opportunities need you to be tall, but it’s something I am working towards overcoming.” Gabi continued to work hard and never lost sight of her love for modeling. “As an artist, I love to wear clothes from designers and learn about the story behind each outfit,” says Gabi. She also has tips for fellow models who also may look different than the industry standard, “Find a way to lengthen your body. Practice angles that make your legs look long. Invest in a stylist that can point you in the right direction to learning the kind of clothes that compliment your body type.”
Gabi Gonzalez, Photo by KBR
Gabi’s photos are stunning, which is largely due to her fearlessness and ability to take risks in photoshoots. She has fun at each photoshoot and runway and isn’t afraid of taking risks. “It's super important to take risks, as it makes for more dynamic shots. Always remember your angles and lighting is very important too.” says Gabi.
Fearlessness and determination are not the only qualities that make a great model. Gabi, a big anime fan, also refers to herself as a geek. “I am weird as a person, but that is what people like about me and I believe everyone should like you for who you are a person, no matter the flaws.”
Gabi also describes herself as sympathetic and silly, qualities that have helped her be expressive as an artist and support those who are going through tough times. “If anyone I know is feeling down, I take the time to listen to their every word and sometimes being there is enough.” The modeling industry can be extremely cut-throat and harsh, which is why we admire her compassion. “Finding friends in the modeling industry is kind of hard in my experience. Lots of models are only out for themselves. I always try to include new faces, give tips and make them feel more comfortable. It's nice to have a buddy to go to castings with, though.”
Gabi Gonzalez, Photo by KBR
Gabi not only has an incredible range as a model, but has a big heart. She participates in pageant community outreach projects and has become a vet assistant. Though she loves modeling, she has a realistic viewpoint on the business. “You can only model for so long. The industry is obsessed with youth. You have to have a backup plan. Also, there aren't a lot of opportunities for paid jobs here in Arizona, so you need a career to fall back on.” Luckily, she has turned her love for animals into a budding career. Both aspiring and veteran models can learn from this accomplished, young talent.
Her advice to others is to take chances as you never know when something could lead to an amazing opportunity. Fans can expect much more from Gabi, “I have a lot of exciting events coming up: Phoenix Swim Week, Las Vegas Swim Week, Denver Latin Fashion Week, Oahu Fashion Week and Paris in December!”
Gabi is an inspiration for models who might get discouraged on the journey. “It takes time for success to happen and there are no shortcuts to get there.” says Gabi. She proves that by being your authentic self, being kind to others and taking risks, you can live your dreams. As Gabi Gonzalez has said, “hard work does pay off in the end.”
In an industry often dominated by rigid standards and fierce competition, Gabi Gonzalez stands out not just for her iconic modeling but for her unwavering authenticity and compassion. As she continues to shine on runways and inspire others with her fearlessness, Gabi remains a role model for other creatives, proving that success is about embracing who you are, supporting others, and always daring to dream big. With exciting events on her horizon, the fashion world eagerly anticipates the next chapter of Gabi Gonzalez’s extraordinary journey.
Edited by KBR on July 26, 2024
