Today we’d like to introduce you to Chiara Charles.
Hi Chiara, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I go by “DopeCHI”. Many call me a jack of all trades, but what I love doing most is Modeling. I am a professional model based in New York City, experienced at runway, commercial and print modeling. I started back in 2014, however, I made it my profession around 2018. I started doing shoots and runway as favors for my friends and companies. From walking in underground fashion shows to NYFW, I’ve experienced the ups and downs of being a freelance model. I was freelance basically up until last week, I am now signed to Mute Models, a new agency started by Dez and Laquan. I’ve worked with some major people and companies such as Tom Ford, Hennessy, NYFW, CDFA, Meg Thee Stallion, Nipsey Hustle, Lil Uzi Vert, and much more.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been smooth, I’m not going to lie. There’s a lot of self-doubt you will get along the way. “Am I good enough, will I make it, is my content worth being paid for?” Blah blah blah but it’s easier to get over it when you’re working. My biggest issue was and still is, is downplaying myself and allowing businesses with money to take advantage of that. You have to worry about people lowballing you or not giving you back your content. My advice to both you and me is just say No more often.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Model: runway, commercial, music videos, print model coach: I created models and mimosas, a networking event for models and creatives to work and meet. Also, teach modeling to clients and schools content creator/influencer: create content for companies and individual artists to post, which includes: music video promo, product review, lifestyle videos, and even restaurant or hotel visits.
What sets me apart from the rest is that I work with the community also, what people don’t know is that I work with a nonprofit organization called Golden Thread Society. This organization is catered to work with schools around the NY area to help develop students into young adults. We focus on building leaders and creators, we ensure each student will learn how to themself a better boss for the future. My job is to bring fashion and art to students who are unfortunately unable to access those tools. I actually coach modeling for these students and help them find their passion for whichever creative field they want to be in as they progress in their lives.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something surprising, my aesthetic is to evolve and adapt to whatever character they put me in. I look at modeling as if it’s acting, being able to play different roles. Each gig isn’t the same therefore they may need a look, I am able to pull off different looks.
Also, I create rugs now. You can now place orders with me for rugs.
Pricing:
- Music videos 100 per hr
- Content creation: video $75
- Story post $50
Contact Info:
- Email: bookchiara@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/dope_chi
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/chiaracharles
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/dopechii
