Living in My Skin: 8 People Reveal Why They Love Their Freckles, Moles, and More
This story: Fashion stylist, Tracey Nicholson. Hair: Tetsuya Yamakata. Makeup: Maki Ryoke. Manicure: Kayo Higuchi. Prop stylist: David de Quevedo.
1/8Pia Priewe
“My big sister always teased me about my moles when we were fighting. I still remember sitting in front of an old computer as a kid, Googling how to laser them away. I’m so glad my parents never let me do it. When I started modeling, I realized that you needed something special to stand out — so my moles are an asset.”
Céline jacket and skirt. Model’s own earrings.2/8Maeva Giani
“Today I feel OK with my freckles, but just two weeks ago I was still feeling vulnerable about them — the comments people make, the way they look at me. I remind myself that it’s a part of my story and I need to embrace it. It’s a question of loving yourself first. Plus, beauty standards are always evolving, and I’m a part of that. Even though it can seem tough to look different, it’ll be all right.”
3/8Manuela Sanchez
“As I’ve grown up, I’ve learned to appreciate when my skin is natural and without makeup. I ignore all negativity and discouraging thoughts. I don’t let it bother me. Beauty is all-encompassing — it’s most reflected in your actions.”
Eckhaus Latta shirt.4/8Mari Agory
“My scar came from an African killer bee sting. I got a lot of Nos at the beginning of my career because of it. So many people told me they couldn’t see me becoming a successful model unless I removed it. But my skin is a part of my story and who I am. Once you begin to embrace and love your imperfections, others will see the beauty and uniqueness in it, too.”
Valentino shirt.5/8Diandra Forrest
“I grew up in a predominantly black and Hispanic neighborhood. Both of my parents are black. There wasn’t anyone who looked like me around. I didn’t understand why I was so white. I knew I had albinism, but I couldn’t wrap my head around it. As I got older, I realized: This is who I am; I better get comfortable with it. From there, you can really blossom. Now I love my albinism. It’s beautiful.”
6/8Seashell Coker
“I started getting freckles when I was six or seven. Other kids used to ask me why I had ‘dots’ on my face. Nowadays I don’t really think about them. I’ve had them all my life — and ‘beautiful’ can mean so many things.”
7/8Marquis Crawford
“People look at you differently when you’re growing up with vitiligo. It’s almost like they’re looking down on you. I found that once I became comfortable with my vitiligo, people actually started to like it. I love it. It helps me stand apart. My skin can take me places. It’s what makes me me.”
8/8Tia Jonsson
“People will message me on Instagram: ‘You’re so brave.’ I appreciate these messages, but they imply that my skin is different. I love my skin. I’m lucky I’m growing up at a time when the fashion industry is celebrating uniqueness. Before, I probably wouldn’t have the opportunities I do now.”
