Meet Ashley Hart

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hart.  

Hi Ashley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Throughout high-school school my focus on sports and my academics. I just knew both were going to be my gateway into college. While working on my bachelor’s degree I had my first job working in retail, this is where I finally started coming into my own and figuring out my own style. I started buying heels, I didn’t wear them often but hey, it was a start. 

I noticed at work, school, or just through daily interactions I would get asked if I modeled and a few times I was approached by “scouts”. I would always say no and laugh and go about my day. In the back of my mind, I wanted to try it but was still very much shy and introverted. I decided before I started my graduate program, I was going to try it. So, that’s exactly what I did I started finding photographers to shoot with, had a couple of shots under my belt, and started posting pictures on social media. Other photographers around the city started messaging me about shooting and letting me know about different auditions for fashion shows. This is where it started, shortly after I fell in love with the runway and started feeling comfortable in front of the camera. 

Since I was finishing up my bachelor’s degree and a few months always from starting graduate school. I thought my time was running out because of the time commitment and stress of the program I was joining. I learned quickly that I had nothing to worry about. It actually made me better at time management and procrastinating less. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Whew, when it comes to the modeling industry it’s a world all of its own. Each market has what they like and then each “fashion season” that want may change. 

I remember being super excited because I got into invited to audition for NYFW for a popular show who were showcasing a collection of designers. I met some nice models while in line, noticing the variety of women and men. I was super nervous but had my portfolio ready. As soon as I entered, I did the walk they asked and was measured shortly after. I was then told my “hips” were too big and in order to walk in the show I would need to lose at least 3 inches. It literally felt like I was punched because I am pretty thin and at that time a size 0/2. I wasn’t going to lose any weight I had been the same size for the longest and wanted to actually gain some. I quickly brushed it off and went to my next show audition and then agency audition. I learned that year that the market in New York is very blunt and I received all no’s. No to signing me because two of the agencies I visited had a “black” model already and no to walking in various shows. 

I was grateful for the experience and knew this came with the territory. So, I said to myself I got it next year. I won’t focus on getting signed I will focus on just getting into NYFW independently and building up my portfolio. In this industry you cannot let a “no” stop you, because it might be a yes from the same people the following year. Or a yes from another director, brand, or market. 

This industry is full of obstacles and challenges and it’s ever-changing but I consistently work on my craft and remain true to myself. I encourage everyone to do the same along with working on improving your portfolio. We now have social media and we can showcase our work on there, so use that to your advantage! You don’t have to had a ton of followers, I don’t but you be surprised what I have booked from my small following! Keep going. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an editorial model, based in metro Detroit. I specialize in editorial, beauty, and runway! 

I really am amazed at with my modeling career, period. As a child I could only dream, I was shy and unsure of myself. So, I pride myself at just trying, then looking at how far I have come. I would say I am most proud of making 

vogue runway and my overall growth. 

I think what sets me apart is my work ethic, drive, and overall personality. When I want something, I go for it with all I can. I will try and make a way whether that’s flying in for castings or driving 11 hours for an opportunity I think I can land! Even simple things like dedicating time to search through social media and the internet finding various gigs, and introducing myself to various people via email. Instead of spending time scrolling, I will find myself working in a heartbeat! 

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
That’s a great question, I see myself modeling but with even more opportunities and expanding my brand. There are a few goals I have in mind; I won’t announce them just yet! Along with evolving even more in the modeling industry, I hope to book more commercial and acting opportunities! 

It’s been an interesting ride in this industry and I definitely see even more growth when it comes to inclusive practices. Especially in markets such as New York and I am excited to see even more. I am also excited to see people looking at Detroit and all the talent we have here. I see more designers and casting directors working in the city and booking local talent! 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleymonique88
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashley.monique.96

Image Credits
David Electronic
Jennifer IIene
Acacia Melia
Chelc Stowers
George Page
Ieisha Self