Get to Know Freelance Model Kayla Hyde
Meet rising model Kayla Hyde, an up and coming freelance model based out of Los Angeles.
On the grind to make a name for herself, Kayla modeled for the brand YËKIM and walked in a professional runway fashion show for that brand, which is also featured in the 2018 season of love and Hip Hop Hollywood. In addition, she's also walked for the brand House of Mera sponsored by Maserati at the Belasco in downtown Los Angeles. She also walked at New York Fashion Week 2020 for Underrated Co., all achieved by that good, old-fashioned, self-motivated hustle!
Get to know Kayla below:
What's a freelance model?
Freelance typically as we all know. is a model that is not represented by a professional agency. I take all challenges as opportunities, and decided I'd be my own agency.
How did you decide to pursue modeling?
After so many ppl recommended I should try it, I made the choice to go for it...Plus I've always felt like I was a creative, so modeling would be the perfect avenue to be able to express myself.
Do you have any memorable photo shoot or runway stories you can share with us?
I've been blessed enough to have graced several runways and major photo shoots. From working with designers, to magazine placements. My top two experiences would have to be my New York fashion week experience and my YËKIM runway model experience. The reason my New York fashion week experience is one of my absolute favorites is because it was a personal goal I set for myself, and was able to achieve it with no professional management or backing. My other favorite experience being the YËKIM runway was because it was my very first runway placement as a model, again with no professional sponsorship or backing I had achieved it all on my own. Humbly speaking, I've been fortunate enough to achieve both of these things in a fairly short amount of time. But I acknowledge these are blessings and continue to move forward and be thankful for every opportunity.
Have you encountered any setbacks in the beauty/fashion industry?, If so, how did you handle it?
As in any other industry, I have experienced rejection, and self-doubt. I understand that it isn't a topic popularly brought about, but self doubt and rejection are common place and how you deal with them is extremely important. Using that as fuel was easier said than done. I have a personal relationship with God, I pray and understand that things work in time. I just continue to have faith in myself, take the losses as fuel to continue to work hard and push further.
Do you think black models are getting more opportunities in the industry these days?
Yes the model culture specifically has shown a significant change. Body conscious and loving your body movements are widely popular and generally accepted. No longer are the painfully petite models being placed, as much as healthier and fit women. Black girl magic is not just a saying, it's a movement and I am proud to be part of that melanin movement. As a collective, queens inspire queens and I am just proud to be a small part of that.
Who are some of you favorite designers/brands and why?
To be very honest, after giving it much thought I cannot pick just one or even a few designers or brands. Like I've stated before I am a creative, a fashion model with different moods for different seasons. There are several designers and brands that I like different things about at different times. I almost like it all if it's done well.
What are some of your favorite makeup brands and why?
One of my favorite make up brands is Fenti by Rihanna. More than just the make up brand I'm a fan of what she's doing for the culture in the idol she's setting for young black females. Because different brands offer different advantages, I like a good amount of make up brands.
What is some advice for aspiring models who want to get into the game?
Keep a never give up attitude, understand that rejection is just part of the process and with hard work and a strong faith you can achieve anything!