Passion for Fashion: Interview with Model Alicia Morris
By Lea Byrnes Art
When pursuing any creative career, having a passion for what you do is ultimately the key to success. For fashion model Alicia Morris, passion has always been the driving force of her flourishing career. “I started modeling in middle school and fell in love with it!” she shares. “My first fashion event was a charity runway show with Rue 21 when I was about 12 years old. I found my love for fashion and the runway!” Alicia is from Arizona and has years of experience in editorial, swimwear, runway, lifestyle, and commercial modeling. She has walked in numerous runway shows and was selected as Miss Arizona Petite in 2022. Alicia describes herself as optimistic, outgoing, and determined, which is evident in the quality of her work.
Photo by Vibrant Portrait Studio, Hair & Makeup by Nicole’s Glam Studio
Throughout her career, Alicia has been allowed the opportunity to partner with a mix of several different brands, designers, and photographers. She has been featured in many different fashion shows, including Phoenix Swim Week, Vegas Fashion Week, the 50 Shades of Pink Fashion Show, the Metro Gala, Lagos Phoenix Fashion Week, and more. Las Vegas Swim Week 2023 was the latest time she hit the runway, where she modeled for various swim and accessory brands. “I have always loved modeling and enjoy working with other creatives to pursue my passion for the fashion industry,” Alicia says. “I truly enjoy the industry as well as all the amazing people I have gotten to meet!”
For Alicia, the best part about being a model is getting the opportunity to work alongside other like-minded creatives. She shares a glimpse of this as she mentions, “I have made some lifelong friends in the fashion industry. A lot of the people I have worked with have become like family to me and I enjoy being able to pursue my passion alongside them.” Alicia says that the support that she can give and receive is the best part of this community. Being a team player is a big part of her genuine character. “Whether it’s at a fashion show or a shoot, it is so much fun to cheer on others and have others cheer me on,” she describes.
Photography by @ferrata_iv
Alicia has worked with a variety of Arizona-based photographers including A. Eye Photography, Anthony Copeland Photography, JNDESIGN4U Photography, Rodrigo Photography, and Onward Photos, to simply name a few. When it comes to carefully selecting her favorite color palette for photoshoots, Alicia mentions, “I love working with all different types of colors! Wearing red or black are my favorite colors to shoot in. I love working with contrasting colors as well as I feel it draws more attention and captivates the viewers.” Alicia’s modeling style is bold and vibrant, giving prominence to striking poses and bright colors. She can convey a sense of sensuality as well as elegance and grace in her work. When asked about her craft, Alicia answers, “Art can convey many emotions and messages. It is a captivating way to give people a message through colors, posing, and facial expressions.”
Photo by Vibrant Portrait Studio, Hair & Makeup by Nicole’s Glam Studio
In terms of any upcoming modeling plans, Alicia speaks on the fact that we can expect to see lots of new and exciting projects that she is working on. “I am currently doing quite a bit of work with brands and organizations,” Alicia shared with us, “...and I have some more runway shows that I will be walking in coming up! Two of the organizations that I’ve been working closely with are the Mahalia Project and Let’s Do This Fashion Show. Some amazing things are coming up that you don’t want to miss!” The Mahalia Project is a powerful Phoenix-based initiative focused on social justice/fundraiser events that combat exploitation in our world. Through creativity and artistic expression, this collective is making an impact in the community and empowering artists’ voices to fight against injustice. This year, Alicia has been featured in photoshoots for the Mahalia Project that help support their cause.
In addition to modeling, Alicia also has a passion for fitness. “I am currently finishing college to get my Personal Training Certification,” she tells us. “I love going to the gym and I am also a college cheerleader. Fitness has always been a huge part of my life, and I am so excited to start a career in the fitness industry.” Alicia’s passion for fitness has grown over the years alongside her passion for modeling. About her advice for other aspiring artists or models, Alicia shares, “Confidence is one of the most important things to have as an artist/creative. Having confidence in yourself and your skin is vital!” Alicia’s confidence is palpable through her modeling and serves as an inspiration to young models like herself. With a passion and drive like hers, there is no doubt that the future will continue to be bright for Alicia Morris!
