Do you remember a time when models had an image of iconic levels? To most the answer is NO simply because today all a person needs is a professional photographer and a little Photoshop magic and all of a sudden everyone considers them a model. Well that may be a slight exaggeration but it is closer to the truth than anything else. On the contrary there are a handful of exceptions to that fact, one of them standing tall at 5’ 10”. Yes, Sessilee Lopez encompasses everything of a true model; she has the look, the body and that “WOW” factor. If that doesn’t make you a believer her personality will. She has the kindness of a saint, you know that sort of kindness that is genuine and sincere, not that “put-on” PR manufactured nonsense. Despite countless editorials, magazine covers (most notably covering 1 of 4 of the July 2008 all black Vogue Italia issues) and walking endless lengths of runways for the likes of Jean Paul Gaultier, Marc Jacobs, Givenchy, Karl Lagerfeld and many more, Sessilee still claims that, “…things are just starting to happen for me”. Ms. Lopez has a good head on her shoulders; she knows how to reach out to others whilst protecting herself, something important in her profession. Her generosity extends far, allowing this interview to take place right before she jet-setted off to London, literally. Sessilee keeps it real all whilst living her dream. What we see is an outstanding 2009 for Sessilee. The same goes for the years that follow. Current state of mind: VIVA LA LOPEZ!

CS: First, we want to thank you for taking time out of your hectic schedule to do this interview. Well it all started back in 2004 when you signed with IMG. Fast forward 5 years and you’re one of the most unique and successful fashion models in the industry. How have you grown from your experiences and do you think you’ve changed much?

Sessilee Lopez: Yes, I have grown up and matured a lot. I see my job as a career and something that I love doing. I now see it as an artform.

CS: When you first arrived on the scene a lot of people typecasted you as a cross between Grace Jones and Iman but with more emphasis on Grace Jones’ edge. Now, they seem to be softening your image and giving you more sexy and feminine looks. Did any of this affect your self-esteem?

SL: No, it did not affect my self esteem in a negative way. I am thankful for work. I don’t mind being casted as anyone as successful as Iman and Grace. WHAT, I’m looked at now as sexy? Oh yeah!

CS: As a model traveling is unavoidable, has it destroyed any of your personal relationships i.e. friendships?

SL: No, everyone in my life knows how dedicated I am to my job so they understand.

CS: Has all the traveling opened your mind to aspects of life that you may have been objective to?

SL: Yes, traveling gives you a new perspective on life and history. You have to know where you come from in order to know where you’re going.

CS: Awhile back you were interviewed stating you plan on becoming a teacher someday. What is it about teaching that has your interest?

SL: I just love children. I used to volunteer at the YMCA with my mom and enjoyed it. Besides, my mom was a teacher.

CS: Which brings us to this question, will you retire from modeling like Tyra Banks did, in other words, will you leave the industry before the industry leaves you?

SL: I hope to have longevity since things are just starting to happen for me.

CS: What is your definition of the word ‘Supermodel’? Do you think any of today’s models are on a level where they could match-up with Linda, Naomi, Christy, etc… if it were still the 90’s?

SL: Liya Kebede and Erin Wasson to me are today’s supermodels. A supermodel to me can successfully balance her fashion career with being in the public eye.

CS: Do you believe there will be a “Golden Age: Part Deux”?

SL: I sure hope so.

CS: Still on the topic of the Golden Age, how different do you think your career would be back then as opposed to now with the industry in its current state?

SL: The only thing I can say about that is that I would personally want to meet Yves Saint Laurent and hopefully would have work for him.

CS: What have been your top 5 jobs that you’ve booked thus far?

SL: 1. Vogue Italia with Steven Meisel
2. cK One
3. Harper’s with Peter Lindberg
4. Metal magazine cover
5. Latina magazine cover

CS: Has your professional life simmered into reality yet or is it all still a dream?

SL: Sometimes it is real and sometimes it is so unreal but I try to just go to work and get the job done. When I come home, I just turn back into Sess.

CS: You’ve taken a few partial-nude shots for a few editorials. Would you agree to do a fully nude pictorial?

SL: For the right photographer, the right magazine, etc… – yes.

CS: How did the Fall 2009/2010 shows go for you?

SL: Extremely well! Unfortunately, I missed Milan because I had a really big shoot that was an opportunity I just couldn’t miss.

CS: Topshop recently opened its doors in SoHo. Were you one in that massive crowd waiting to get some UK fashion?

SL: No, but I tried to go on a rainy day thinking there would be no lines, but there was!

CS: What trends have you rocked over the years or does Sessilee have a signature look?

SL: My signature look is the rocker-look but I am always working on evolving it. My sister, Kris is my stylist.

CS: What music artists have you been listening to lately?

SL: Ryan Leslie, Chrisette Michelle, and Corinne Bailey Rae.

CS: You, like the rest of us contemporary beings, are quite the social network enthusiast. Are there any effects, positive or negative, that Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, etc… have on society?

SL: I don’t know about society, except you get to know people a bit better. People want me to Tweet details about jobs that I am doing. I’m a bit superstitious so I don’t talk about jobs before they are public. I Tweet but without any details.

CS: You may or may not know but the trailer for Sacha Baron Cohen’s (Borat) new movie, Brüno, recently premiered. Did you hear about the incidents of him trespassing into the Spring 2009 shows in Milan?

SL: OMG! He was at one of my shows! The character Brüno is hilarious! I just love him and he has a good walk! LOL. I would love to go to his movie premiere with him (and his wife too).

CS: Switching topics, what is your take on the United States’ economic crisis? Do you think the acquired celeb status of President Obama has put this idea into people’s minds that he is some superhuman who can solve this problem in a few short months?

SL: I hope he can solve this problem soon. I think America needs a superhero they can put their faith in right now; and it’s not a bad thing to look at our president as this amazing man. How often in the past have we been able to do that? – You can probably count it on one hand. I love Obama and his family and I wish them all much success.

CS: It was an outstanding 2008 for you but 2009 is here. What upcoming work does Sessilee Lopez have in store for 2009; acting, campaigns, editorials, magazine covers? Come on give us a hint if not an exclusive.

SL: Yes, all of the above. Like I said earlier, I can’t talk about projects that aren’t out yet. I am excited to work.

CS: Well, thank you once again, it has been a pleasure. Before you go are there any parting messages you want to leave with your fans?

SL: Just that I love all of them for their support, especially the ones who think I am just so fierce – I hear them! Thanks so much. I work hard to give you a great photo every time.

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