Gone are the days when models had to dress like a blank canvas to attend events. A new generation of models is embracing personal style and expressing their individuality through fashion choices – whether it’s jeans, t-shirts or statement dresses. Each month, Eskume delves deep into the fashion wardrobes of the hottest models of the moment to see what they’re wearing during castings. This is not buying second-hand clothes!
This month, meet Gavi Kay Stormer, a model from Sitka, Alaska. After being discovered by parent company MMG last year, Stormer signed in January and promptly moved to New York City. Stormer, who is Nakota Sioux, celebrated her first New York Fashion Week this season in a special way — by walking for local designer Kayla Lookhorse. Since then, the model has continued to sizzle on the catwalk, walking for the Miami Swim Show earlier this month and also for a large Indigenous exhibit at the Getty and Autry Museums.
Below, Stromer discusses the story of her discovery, her favorite items so far, and the must-have items in her wardrobe. (Hint: she has an amazing jewelry collection.)
Eskum: What is the story of your discovery?
Gavi K Stormer: MMG discovered me through Instagram in December 2023 and signed me in January. But applying to agencies over the years helped me find the right person.
What has been your favourite job so far?
My favorite job was walking for Kayla Lookhorse during New York Fashion Week. That’s really special to me; walking for local designers is a very powerful and beautiful experience. As a Nakota Sioux who grew up in the Tlingit culture in Alaska, I’m honored to be able to showcase the beauty of Native heritage in any way I can.
How would you describe your personal style?
My style is all over the place, but one thing I keep in all of my outfits is thrifty and vintage chic. I think sustainability is so important and frugal fashion is a simple and universal way to achieve that. Sometimes, I’ll wear a trendy outfit and something fun, but other times I’ll wear a cozy sweatshirt. I do both!
What is your ideal casting look?
My perfect casting look would be straight leg jeans and black boots or heels with a tight black tank top or bra. To add a little bit of myself, I chose these jeans that I had customized! As a 6’1″ woman, pants can sometimes be tricky, so I started saving on pants and extending their length by sewing pieces together. I also love to wear engraved metal earrings made by Tlingit artist Jennifer Younger from my hometown of Sitka, Alaska to represent my home, as well as engraved crow bracelets made by Jean Chilton, another Alaska Native artist.
