Today we’d like to introduce you to Slade Bone
Slade, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My modeling journey began in high school, long before I ever set foot on a runway/ behind a photographer’s camera. I’ve always been passionate about photography, and taking pictures of myself & with hometown best friends became a creative outlet. I would post my photos on Instagram, not thinking much of it, until Amiya Siler, a former classmate and an upperclassman, reached out to me. Amiya had graduated a year before me and was the president of a modeling club called “Infinite Appeal” at Georgia State University. Even though I wasn’t a student there, she saw potential in me and invited me to join the club after I graduated in 2020.
Being a part of Infinite Appeal was a turning point for me. It was there that I learned the fundamentals of modeling—how to pose, walk, and carry myself confidently. I had my first headshots taken, participated in my first fashion show, and met local designers and models who would later become an essential part of my network. Atlanta’s vibrant fashion scene became my training ground.
As I built connections, opportunities started coming my way. In 2023, I achieved a major milestone: walking in New York Fashion Week. That same year, I won a billboard campaign that was displayed across Atlanta. Those experiences gave me the confidence to take bigger risks.
One of the biggest risks I took was in late 2024 when I decided to take off work at my day job as a server to attend an indie fashion casting call in Atlanta. I was nervous, but while waiting in line, I was scouted by a talent agency called Atelier041. That moment changed everything. Before the year ended, they flew me to Miami for fashion shows, to Michigan to officially sign with the agency, and to New York in February for NYFW 2025.
This journey has been nothing short of transformative. From taking photos as a hobby to now walking in various fashion shows & shoots across the nation, I’ve learned that every step, no matter how small, can lead to something incredible. And I owe so much to the people who believed in me along the way—like my family, hometown best friends, infinite appeal, Atlanta fashion district, & my agency, & many more
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my modeling journey has been my height. At 5’9”, I fall below the industry’s long-standing standard of 6’0” or taller for male models. While the fashion world is becoming more inclusive in many areas, height remains a significant barrier, especially for men. I knew from the start that I would hear more “no’s” than “yes’s,” and that the odds were stacked against me.
On top of that, financial struggles early on made it difficult to invest in essentials like professional photos and travel for opportunities. But instead of letting these obstacles discourage me, I focused on identifying my strengths and perfecting my craft. I worked relentlessly on my poses, walk, and overall presence to make sure my talent and passion outshined my height.
Overcoming these challenges has been about persistence and resilience. Every “no” I received pushed me to work harder, and every “yes” reminded me that I could beat the odds. My journey is proof that with dedication, you can break through even the toughest barriers.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a fashion model, my role is to bring designer brands to life, whether it’s on the runway, in front of a camera, or in a commercial campaign. I’m often described as a “walking mannequin,” showcasing clothing and designs in a way that highlights their beauty and craftsmanship. What I’m most recognized for are my facial features, my body, and my ability to adapt and embody the vision of each designer or creative team I work with.
At 5’9”, I’ve had to think strategically about how to stand out in an industry where height is often a focal point. For me, fitness plays a huge role—it’s not just about looking good but about creating a physique that enhances the designs I wear. I’ve also learned to embrace and highlight the unique features I was born with, turning them into assets that set me apart from others.
I specialize in photography, print, and commercial shoots, which allow me to connect directly with an audience, but I also love walking the runway when I get the opportunity. There’s something electric about embodying a designer’s vision in motion.
What truly sets me apart, though, is my stubbornness when it comes to my career. I take immense pride in every project I’ve worked on, using that as fuel to push forward and create new opportunities. Manifesting a long and successful career is about more than just dreaming; it’s about staying relentless, perfecting my craft, and taking pride in every step of the journey.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories is tied to my mom’s love for photography. It was more than a hobby for her—it was a way to capture moments and turn them into something special. She and my dad would dress me up and stage little photoshoots, whether that meant heading outside or draping an old blanket over the porch bench to create the perfect setup. Those photos would end up all over our house and hallways, proudly displayed for every guest to see.
As I grew older, that love for capturing moments stayed with me. In high school, my best friends and I would make an event out of shopping sprees, then use our hometown of Hampton, GA, as a backdrop for fun, & freestyle photoshoots. It was a way to express ourselves and find beauty in our everyday surroundings. Looking back, those experiences feel like the foundation for the creative side of my modeling career today.
Contact Info:
- Website: bookings@atelier041.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sladebone
Image Credits
-Atelier041
-Infinite Appeal
