Model Talk: Interview With Christine Staub

Christine Staub is not your typical model (or high schooler, for that matter). Even though she walks runways, appears on magazine covers (who could forget the Daily she beautifully graced?), gets photographed by world-renown photographers, and collaborates with fashion's best (Hi, Tavi Gevinson), there is one major difference between her and other models: she's just 17 years old. But don't expect delusions of grandeur and Campbell-I'll-throw-my-cellphone-at-you-diva-tantrums from this budding starlet - an honors student and church-goer, Staub's down-to-earth and humble attitude (on top of her natural beauty) make her a rare combination that the modeling world so desperately needs. And just like any other teenager, she swoons over Leo Dicaprio and enjoys a good sale. Do I see a NYLON feature in the near future for her? Yes, yes I do. I was lucky enough to recently ask her a few questions, and if you don't fall in love with her by the end, you are a Dalek. Fact.

Name? Christine Nicole Staub
Age? 16
Agency? IMG Models

At what age did you realize you wanted to start modeling? When I was younger I always despised everyone who made an attempt to take a photograph of me - I was shy and beyond awkward. But then at the age of fourteen I was scouted by a few agencies and they opened my eyes to the modeling industry. Ever since I've been hooked.

Who are your favorite designers? My favorite designers are Tommy Hilfiger, Betsey Johnson, and many others but it would take me ages to list them all. The one designer I've met is Betsey Johnson, and she was crazy so of course I loved her.

What work are you most proud of? I'm most proud of the shows I have walked in. This is because in order to walk a fashion show, you must be confident in yourself and your body. And in today's world with all the media pressure to be perfect I am proud of myself because I love the skin I'm in and confident to flaunt my stuff on a runway.

That's lovely to hear! Has there been a favorite show that you walked? Yes! My favorite show I walked was during NY Fashion Week, for the designer Elene Cassis - the whole show itself was amazing. The clothes really impressed me and I was the show opener, so I had the runway all to myself which I was very happy about.

If you could walk any designer's show, which one would it be? Betsey Johnson. I am in love with her edgy yet completely adorable clothes, and her shows are always fun and energetic - like me.

Favorite food? Cereal

Favorite movie? The Ugly Truth

Favorite TV show? Pretty Little Liars

Celebrity crush? Leonardo Dicaprio

Favorite band or singer? One Republic, Eminem

Favorite color? Red

What are your favorite things to do when you're not modeling? When I'm not working I'm always in New York City or running for cross country and track. Having free time for me is a rare occurrence because of my hectic non stop schedule! What I accomplish in a day amazes me, and I'm so thankful I can run on no energy.

Tell me about your school. I recently transferred to small all girls school (450 total), which I love. My schooling experience there has been amazing so far - I'm very lucky to be a student at such a great school. And I don't miss school unless I absolutely have to! In February for Fashion Week I will have to miss school, but I go to school even when I'm sick because I cant stand missing work and falling behind! My favorite class is definitely English.

If you could give any advice to teenage girls who want to become models, what would it be? I would tell them that the modeling industry is rough, and people will indeed degrade you. But in order for you to stay strong, you must know that at the end of the day you should always love yourself.

What were some challenges you faced when you first became a model? Was there anything that surprised you or intrigued you about the industry? When I became a model I was very shy and timid, but that has all changed in the past couple years. In many ways I have evolved and become very independent. I have also learned how to eat healthy and stay in shape. What surprised me the most about modelling is the artistic aspect of modeling; many people don't realize that through every photograph a story is told.

Your mom has been a target of media scrutiny ever since starring in the Real Housewives of New Jersey. How do you respond to writers, columnists, and people who think negatively about your mom? The show portrayed my mom in the completely wrong way. So many scenes were edited to make it seem intense when it really wasn't. I do not approve of that show and all the negativity it has brought to my mom in the media. Ever since seeing how much editing is done, I no longer watch any television except the occasional sitcoms; never a reality show. If I could say anything to the media I would ask them if selling magazines is really worth writing the demeaning and completely false accusations about my mom. I know who my mom is and that is just simply not her, enough said.

What was it like being styled by Tavi for your Blackbook shoot? Tavi is a thirty year old designer stuck in a thirteen year old's body. She knew more about fashion then I even knew was attainable and she continues to amaze me.

Do you see yourself making a life out of modeling, or do you think it will only last for a few years? Modeling for me is something I have passion for, but school is also very important for me. I plan to continue modelling throughout my high school and college career.

Have you started thinking about college yet? I've thought about college since I was about ten years old, and I definitely want to go to a university! I want to get a degree and have an amazing career. I don't know what career path I will follow yet, but I'm sure it will be amazing.

You go, girl!