Photography by Phelan Mark
Cali Tyler
~ Model ~
by Rodney Wayne Branche
Copa Style Magazine Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
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Copa: Where are you from?
Cali: I’m a proud Washingtonian, born and raised. I grew up near The Wharf in Southwest DC. Copa: Which schools have you attended?
Cali: I graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. I then attended a vocational school, Graham Webb Academy in Arlington, Virginia studying cosmetology. Copa: At what time did you get interested in the Fashion industry?
Cali: At what time did you get interested in the Fashion industry? When I was younger, Style network often showcased extensive coverage of Mercedes-Benz fashion week. I knew all the designers and could recognize their clothing before knowing the brand. Unlike my peers, my mom wasn’t young and hip so I never wore anything trendy just basic and functional. I was probably around 12 when I began altering my clothing using what I had to create new designs to fit my tall frame since most of my pants were high water. I was gifted a new sewing machine for Christmas and stayed up all night designing and constructing clothing. |
Copa: When did you decide to become a model and when was your first Model call?
Cali: I dabbled a bit in High School attending practice for shows that never came to fruition. I modeled in hair shows at school and a few trade shows only from submitted pictures. My first audition in 2017 was unfortunately a scam, which the producer conned models into funding the show. I was discouraged but used that experience as a lesson. |
Copa: Who are 3 of your favorite models and why?
Cali: Tyra Banks is a major inspiration and I love her entrepreneurial mindset. After seeing her on Fresh Prince, I was in awe of seeing someone I could identify with on TV. I'm a huge Agyness Deyn fan. Who doesn’t love her platinum pixie and fun style! Yasmeen Ghauri is effortlessly striking and captivating.
Cali: Tyra Banks is a major inspiration and I love her entrepreneurial mindset. After seeing her on Fresh Prince, I was in awe of seeing someone I could identify with on TV. I'm a huge Agyness Deyn fan. Who doesn’t love her platinum pixie and fun style! Yasmeen Ghauri is effortlessly striking and captivating.
Tyra Banks
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Agyness Deyn
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Yasmeen Ghauri
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Copa: What's the most important thing you have learned about modeling in Washington, DC?
Cali: As a model you are your own brand. Modeling is a business and you’re selling yourself! It’s extremely important to be comfortable and confident in yourself and your talent. You’ll face a lot of criticism and rejection, if you aren’t mentally prepared you’ll feel defeated. Clients have an idea of what they want before you walk in the door, remain humble and don’t take it personal!
Cali: As a model you are your own brand. Modeling is a business and you’re selling yourself! It’s extremely important to be comfortable and confident in yourself and your talent. You’ll face a lot of criticism and rejection, if you aren’t mentally prepared you’ll feel defeated. Clients have an idea of what they want before you walk in the door, remain humble and don’t take it personal!
Copa: If you had your choice of 3 designers to walk for who would they be?
Cali: LaQuan Smith, Rihanna, Virgil, and Abloh. Copa: What does the future hold for Cali and her wide world of fashion?
Cali: I plan to do great things that will most importantly inspire our youth and positively impact the world. |
Copa: What is your philosophy on FASHION and style?
Cali: Less is more! It’s not what you wear it’s how you wear it! I always opt for classic styles adding in one or two statement pieces. Copa: Who are your best 3 DMV Photographers?
Cali: Se7en Captures, a young female photographer with a great vision! Phelan Marc always gets the best angle! Reggie Bell is a great artist and professional! 
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~Copa!