Chel Sgro is not only stunning but she is very talented. We loved having her on set to see her work in front of the camera. Meet Chel from Dorothy Combs Models who rocked our 2021 Johnathan Kayne for Sydney's Closet Collection and more.
Background Information
Hometown: Springfield, IL
Agency: Dorothy Combs Models
Shoot Date: June 2020
Shoot Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Stats
Height: 173cm - 5' 8"
Bust: 113cm - 44.5"
Bra Size: 38G, 40DDD
Waist: 93cm - 36.5"
Hips: 123cm - 48.5"
Hair: Blonde
Eyes: Green
What inspired you to start modeling?
It’s funny, I didn’t really get inspired to start modeling, it kind of found me. I had been doing Brand ambassadoring for a little while on my social media platforms and after performing CurvyCon in New York City and doing a few freelance modeling gigs, I was connected with a modeling agency. I do love it though.
Must-have fashion accessory?
Lately, I have been super into layering necklaces and hoop earrings!
What's the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?
The first thing I do when I wake up in the morning as I check my phone. Most of the things that I do can be done from my phone. So, I lay in bed and I check my emails, respond to emails, check my texts, respond to texts, check all my social media platforms, respond to notifications, post on social media platforms, and then I make coffee.
What was the first CD you ever bought?
The first CD I ever bought was Now 2. My favorite song from the CD was The Boy is Mine by Brandy and Monica.
Celebrity crush?
I have so many but if I have to choose one right now it would probably be Jason Momoa!
Where has been your favorite place to shoot?
Probably in Malibu four a good American shoot with Khloe Kardashian!
What's your current fashion trend obsession?
I really love matching sets and monochromatic outfits!
Do you have any advice for designers in the plus-size industry when it comes to look, feel, and fit?
I do! I think stretch is very important in the plus size world. it’s not one-size-fits-all for us and everybody has different places where they need a little extra give or take. Also, support and structure are very important as well because if the fabric is too thin it’s going to show every lump and bump and if there’s no structure then we end up looking bigger than we are because it doesn’t flatter our curves!
Who inspires your modeling career?
For years I have looked up to models like Ashley Graham, Iskra Lawrence, Hunter McGrady, Tabria Majors, Latecia Thomas, among many others.
What advice would you give to women hoping to get into the industry?
Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. I would start by doing home photo shoots and getting comfortable in front of your camera. Practice in front of the mirror. Videotape yourself moving and watch it to learn from it. Post as much as you can and tag the brands in it, you never know what opportunities will come from that. Also, know that the industry is looking for all shapes, sizes, and heights right now so now is the time. Don’t tell yourself that you don’t have the look because you very well might.
What's the most exciting aspect of being a plus-size model?
The most exciting aspect of being a plus size model for me is the ability to keep the ball rolling in the right direction. As someone who grew up plus size with no options of clothing and no role models who looks like me… It is very exciting to be the change that the industry needs so badly.
What are some of your favorite modeling poses to flatter your curves?
Crossed legs, one elongated in front and a hand on the hip to accentuate the curve of my body.
Tell us a funny story from the shoot.
For one of the photos we got In-N-Out Burger and I was using it as a prop and I kept forgetting not to eat it. After I go to take a bite I’d realize that I had crumbs all over my lips and needed to either dust off or reapply.
What was your favorite part about the shoot?
My favorite part of the shoot was of course getting to wear the dresses and the jewelry and the exceptional make up artist and photographer who also did our hair. I don’t think I’ve ever been dolled up like that and it was very fun.
What was your favorite Johnathan Kayne for Sydney's Closet dress to model?
Spyder Pageant Jumpsuit
Anything else you want to share about the shoot?
It was just a really amazing team of people and I can’t wait until I get to do it again.
What did you love about working with Sydney's Closet?
I love Sydney‘s closet for a number of reasons. One is that they are a family run business and they work very hard to make their customers happy and to provide to an audience that isn’t being provided to. Another reason I love Sydney‘s closet is because the dresses are magnificent and the quality is unmatched. The third reason is that every dress I put on fit me like a glove and that is never happened before. A fourth reason is that they make a point of not only offering plus sizes but offering sizes that range higher than almost any other retailer. Finally, I love what Sydney‘s closet stands for and I love the people standing behind the company.
Describe your favorite gown from the shoot and why you feel that way.
Probably the untamed party dress because it fit my personality!