Hayley Hasselhoff

You grew up in a family a lot related to the show-business world. How much –and in which way- do you think this has helped you and in which way has this been a limit?
I am very grateful that at a very young age I was introduced to the love of arts and encouraged that if you work hard enough no dream is too far to reach. I grew up on the set of Baywatch and got to see the family aspect of being on set surrounded by people who do what they love. Growing up with a family who is in the industry you may be able to have doors open a bit quicker, but they will shut twice as hard and fast if you don’t come prepared with passion, hard-work, love and your own approach at what you do.
When and why did you approach the world of fashion?
Fashion has always been a way for me to express myself and has given me confidence at times when I plus-size. I started working as a plus size model when I was 14 years old. I fell in love with it from day one as it was a form of acting – becoming the ideal women to represent the brand and what they stood for. Starting in the industry so young allowed me to see that beauty comes in all different shapes and sizes.

Being a curvy model are you aware of being an example for other women?
I am aware of being an example for other women. In my journey I try to stay as connected to who I am and my morals. Trying to always be a guiding light of positivity and love. I can only hope that my journey inspires another to find her own. I say this because I want her to find what speaks to her and what doesn’t. She is just as inspiring and strong as the next woman and I want her to find her voice.

In general, what do you like and what do you dislike about your job, what are the ups and downs?
I’ll start by saying the ups of my job really have always overpowered any downs of my job. To be able to work with so many inspiring people, create in different fields that I am passionate about and to travel the world doing so is a true gift. The hardest part of the job is missing important moments in my family’s lives. Any time that I have off, I try to get home and spend it with my loved ones to make up for missed time.
A style trick you’ve learned in these years?
My number one styling tip is having the right fitted undergarments. It is so important to get the right fitted bra, it helps with posture and you’ll see an instant difference on how a garment fits you. I also encourage shapewear for all sizes. I don’t use shapewear to slim my figure, yet to give a smooth surface for the garment to lie on. You’ll see a big difference on how an embellished dress lies on the figure with the right undergarments underneath.
What is one must-have piece in your wardrobe?
A good tailored suit. A two-piece suit is what I feel sexiest in and is good for day to night.
You are on vacation in Italy, what do you like about it the most?
The people in Italy are always so kind and full of life. The one thing I love the most is the appreciation for a meal and how the meal becomes the event. I love that when you are in Italy you can sit for hours for dinner having a great conversation over a homemade recipe and beautiful wine.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future are always to push myself to continue to be better and learn as much as I can about myself in the process. I am currently gearing up for another trip to the U.K. to shoot with three different plus brands. I hope to continue my path as a plus size model and be the best version of myself for every brand I work with.

This interview has been edited and condensed.
Photographer: Raffaele Grosso
Hair & Makeup: Giovanna Fucciolo
Location: Villa Cora
Special thanks to Hayley Hasselhoff