California Fashion Spotlight is a refined celebration of the models shaping the visual identity of California fashion. Curated as a collaborative feature rather than a ranking, this edition brings together distinctive faces, personal style, creative presence, and emerging influence from across the state. Each model represents a different expression of California fashion—confident, individual, and evolving—making this a collection of names worth knowing and watching.
Pasqua Ruggiero
San Diego, California
Alternative • Fantasy • Editorial
Pasqua Ruggiero approaches modeling as a creative art form rather than something confined to traditional fashion. Inspired by a close friend involved in experimental and alternative modeling, she found her own lane through fantasy concepts, alternative imagery, and musician portraiture—often putting an unconventional spin on familiar ideas. In just about a year and a half, Pasqua has built an impressive body of work with roughly 50 publications, including a front cover, back covers, and multiple editorials, while also becoming an admin for a San Diego group-shoot organization. In September 2026, she is preparing to walk in Paris Fashion Week, marking another major step in her journey. Looking ahead, Pasqua hopes to merge modeling with her talents as an electric violin and viola player while continuing to show that success does not require fitting a traditional mold.
RØ3
Sacramento, California
Fashion Designer • Streetwear • Faith-Based Fashion
Fashion became a form of confidence and self-expression for RØ3 long before it became a business. Growing up moving often and sometimes going to school with holes in his shoes shaped the meaning clothing carried for him, while his friend Andy helped deepen his interest in fashion. After giving his life to God, that creativity developed into Centered Through Christ, where faith meets art, music, and West Coast streetwear. RØ3 blends vintage and futuristic influences, distressed textures, and refined details, creating pieces he wants people to appreciate visually before discovering the deeper message behind them. Today, he is proudest of building the brand from the ground up—developing garments, samples, colorways, and concepts while watching an idea become something people genuinely want to wear.
REGINAE’ DIAVIAN
San Diego, California
Runway • Editorial • Swimwear • Commercial
Reginae’ Diavian has been passionate about modeling since she was young, but at 17 she made the decision to seriously chase it, attending casting calls across Northern and Southern California before landing her first fashion show in Sacramento. Driven by a refusal to live with “what ifs” or let her environment define her future, she has built a versatile portfolio spanning grungy editorials, couture runway, swimwear, brand work, and commercial modeling. Swimwear remains her favorite for its chic, playful energy. This year, she has also expanded into acting with two short films while continuing to connect with new productions and brands. Balancing college, career, modeling, and life has strengthened her resilience, and Reginae’ hopes to one day walk for Fenty and Victoria’s Secret while remaining unapologetically herself, hardworking, and true to her heart.
https://www.instagram.com/vr.naae?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
DEMETRIUS REED-TELLEZ
Sacramento • Oakland • San Francisco, California
Fashion • Runway • Editorial
Classic, expressive, and refined, Demetrius Reed-Tellez brings a strong sense of character to the runway. He entered modeling after his friend Thomas invited him to walk in the Fantasia show at the San Francisco Fashion Festival in December 2025, and he has been pursuing new opportunities ever since. Representing Latinos in fashion is an important part of what motivates him, along with the support he has received from creatives and people around him. His favorite projects include Sacramento Fashion Week 2026, where he worked with Anita Ivayo, Gkeb Shine, and LiBush Designs, and the Miami Swim Week Whimsical Fashion Show with Andrea of Revolution A. Demetrius hopes to model across the world, build genuine creative connections, and be remembered for his kindness, professionalism, and authenticity.
https://www.instagram.com/dangerous.demetrius?igsi=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Jenni N. (Dodo)
Southern California — Inland Empire / Los Angeles / Orange County / San Diego
Fantasy • Editorial • Boudoir
Jenni blends fantasy, editorial, and boudoir modeling with a strong focus on creativity and personal expression. She began with boudoir, drawn to the confidence and empowerment it gave her, before expanding into more imaginative and conceptual shoots. Jenni is also intentional about her boundaries, choosing to shoot boudoir only with female photographers because her comfort will always come before a project. She hopes her work helps challenge outdated ideas of what a model should look like and encourages others to pursue modeling without feeling pressured to fit one standard. Among her proudest accomplishments are earning magazine covers through the strength of the work itself, along with memorable editorial collaborations with Matina and fantasy shoots with Michelle.
https://www.instagram.com/dodo_b_jenhttps://kavyar.com/ehec2ukqm6zuhttps://www.modelmanagement.com/model/jennifer-navarro-4/
Southern California
Runway • Print • Editorial
Khemal, known as 2Smoovve, seemed to find his way into modeling long before he officially claimed the title. From elementary school through graduate school, his image regularly became the cover shot for newspapers, brochures, and publications, with people constantly telling him he should model. That changed after a birthday photoshoot, when a designer waiting in the studio told him, “That’s about to change.” Today, 2Smoovve describes his style as “CrazySexyCool” with a touch of what he calls “Flamboyant Suave”—bold, textured, smooth, and expressive. Inspired by Naomi Campbell and Tyson Beckford, runway has become his favorite space, leading him to walk New York and Los Angeles Fashion Week. His next goal is international fashion, while ultimately being remembered as a force who proved you never have to reduce yourself to one box.
https://www.instagram.com/2smoovve?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
ALEXIS DANNAE
Sacramento, California
Alexis Dannae began modeling professionally five years ago after encouragement from her boyfriend and photographer Rikee Banks gave her the confidence to take the idea seriously. When a San Francisco agency began looking for plus-size models, she submitted her photos, was invited to meet almost immediately, booked her first job two weeks later, and has remained signed ever since. Much of Alexis’ work is in fit modeling, where she works behind the scenes with designers, along with print projects that support clothing brands. Career highlights include working with companies such as Old Navy and Levi’s—brands she grew up wearing, making those opportunities especially meaningful. Inspired by the support of her loved ones and models like Ashley Graham and Tabria Majors, Alexis hopes to expand further into print, collaborate with more California creatives and brands, and be remembered for her genuine heart, perseverance, and the way she consistently shows up for others.
www.alexisdannae.com
https://linktr.ee/alexisdannae
https://www.rikeebanks.com
KENYON [KEN-YAHN]
Sacramento, California
Streetwear • Commercial • Fashion
Kenyon’s interest in modeling started at 16, after people around him kept suggesting he give it a try. His first shoot with a friend in Los Angeles gave that interest somewhere to go, while seeing major modeling campaigns and advertisements made him realize he could seriously pursue the same kind of work. His style is rooted in streetwear and commercial fashion, with an urban edge that reflects his personality. Some of his favorite accomplishments include being cast in Ariel Mei’s Blue Print Fashion Show and working on clothing shoots with Sacramento-based designers, including VillageXGS. As he continues growing, Kenyon wants to sharpen his skills, gain more experience, collaborate with more creatives, and be remembered for the unique streetwear style that feels distinctly his own.
https://kenyonedwards88.wixsite.com/kenyonsportfolio
Ariel Brownlee
San Diego, California
Editorial • Artistic • Fashion
Ariel Brownlee stepped into modeling during a personal rebirth in her mid-30s, finally choosing to pursue a dream she had carried for years. What began with one pool photoshoot meetup quickly grew into a year of TFP shoots, creative collaborations, and new opportunities across San Diego. Her style leans vintage, romantic, and artistic, with a love for emotionally raw imagery that feels cinematic and tells a story beyond the clothes. Among her most meaningful experiences was working with Mesa College’s Fashion Department and designer Josh Jimenez for a presentation at the San Diego History Center. Today, Ariel defines success less by a single cover and more by creating meaningful work with exceptional people while being remembered as kind, funny, genuine, and fully herself.
https://www.instagram.com/arielxore?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==https://kavyar.com/?r=1544709https://youtube.com/@rain2roseshealing?si=2FohG_NOlJhNJ8FQ
CALVIN SCROGGINS
San Diego, California
Editorial • Runway • Fashion
Calvin Scroggins began modeling in 2019 after being introduced to the industry through his cousin, photographer Kelli Boyd. What pushed him to take the work more seriously was seeing a lack of genuine diversity within fashion editorial modeling and wanting to be part of changing that. His style blends edgy and traditional influences, allowing him to show versatility across different concepts and settings. One of his proudest moments so far was participating in a Juneteenth runway show in June 2025. As his career continues to grow, Calvin hopes to eventually coach models through an agency and be remembered not only for the work he created, but for the experience of collaborating with him and the way he made people feel throughout the process.
https://www.instagram.com/nivlacbckwrds?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
ANALICIA CASTELLANO
Sacramento • Bay Area, California
Runway • Editorial • Alternative Fashion
Analicia Castellano first stepped into modeling at eight years old, later taking a break during high school to focus on sports before returning after graduation. That time away made her realize how much she missed the creativity of becoming part of someone else’s vision. Her look naturally leans serious and mysterious, especially on the runway, where her signature straight-faced presence has become part of her style, though she can easily shift into something elegant or more playful when the concept calls for it. Recently, she has especially enjoyed alternative, darker shoots and elegant fashion work. A standout moment was modeling and presenting an award at the Greater Sacramento Urban Music Awards while wearing The Queens Chair by Francis Wright. After returning to modeling casually, the opportunities she has earned as a free agent have inspired her to explore agency representation and see how far the journey can take her.
https://www.instagram.com/ana.nana.bc?igsi=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D
SHAUN P.
Sacramento, California
Modeling • Wardrobe Styling • Casting • Talent Coordination
Shaun P. has built a multifaceted career in fashion through modeling, styling, casting, and talent coordination, with experience spanning Sacramento, the Bay Area, Los Angeles, New York, and cities across the country. His first modeling opportunity came through Sacramento’s Freestyle Clothing Exchange, where he appeared in website, store, and print advertising. Drawn to the way clothing can express culture, personality, and emotion, Shaun’s style blends high fashion, streetwear, old-money refinement, punk influences, Y2K nostalgia, and polished vintage. Inspired by designers including Alexander McQueen, Giorgio Armani, Rick Owens, and Rei Kawakubo, he approaches fashion as both art and self-expression. His goal is to continue evolving creatively while inspiring others to embrace individuality, confidence, and authenticity.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaunup_fashion
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@shaunp_fashion
Website: shaunpfashion.weebly.com
DEVYN RENEE GRAVES
San Diego, California
Commercial • Editorial • Runway
Devyn Renee Graves began modeling in 2023 after an early scouting experience turned out to be a scam, but instead of letting that stop her, she moved into freelance modeling and began attending every open casting she could find. Always comfortable in front of the camera, Devyn wanted to see whether her love for taking photos could become something professional, and she found support from other creatives who helped show her the ropes. She considers herself primarily a commercial model and especially enjoys photoshoots, particularly creative and whimsical concepts where an idea can be fully brought to life. She has also walked in The LA Fashion Show and hopes to continue exploring more runway opportunities. Above all, Devyn wants people to remember that she brought a sense of fun to every project she was part of.
https://devyngraves.portfoliobox.net
AMIR CLEMONS
Oakland, California
Commercial • Streetwear • Runway
Amir Clemons brings a polished edge to modeling, blending the confidence of sophisticated streetwear with the authenticity of his own background. Originally from Newark, New Jersey, raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, and now based in Oakland, his first professional shoot with Alanlux Studios showed him what he could become in front of the camera. Since then, modeling has become a space where confidence, discipline, and self-expression meet. One of his biggest accomplishments has been working on a Google campaign featuring upcoming phones, tablets, and laptops, along with walking in a fashion show at The Bank at Amador. Also an actor, recording artist, and published author, Amir wants to keep evolving as a multi-faceted creative while being remembered for his authenticity, bold presence, and ability to leave an impression wherever he goes.
MACI CHRISTIAN HOPKINS
Bay Area, California
Runway • Editorial • Fit Modeling • Promotional
Versatility comes naturally to Maci Christian Hopkins, a Bay Area-based model whose love for the camera began at a young age and became a serious pursuit after graduation. Now signed with STARS Management, Maci has built experience across editorials, fit modeling, runway shows, and promotional events, bringing a style she describes as spontaneous, versatile, and unpredictable. Runway is where she feels most inspired, and walking shows in both Los Angeles and New York City stands among her proudest accomplishments. As she continues developing her career, Maci is focused on challenging herself creatively, building toward full-time modeling, and ultimately earning the recognition she has set her sights on: Model of the Year.
https://www.instagram.com/sumslayage?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
GEOVANNI GILL
Los Angeles, California
Editorial • Conceptual • Fashion
Movement is at the foundation of Geovanni Gill’s modeling style. Based in Los Angeles, he entered the industry through dance, where body awareness and physical expression translated naturally in front of the camera. What made him take modeling seriously was its ability to tell stories through fashion, turning an image into something with a larger narrative behind it. His aesthetic leans futuristic, modern, and eclectic, with a preference for concept-driven shoots over straightforward posing. Some of his most rewarding projects have been passion collaborations with local photographers, built on creative chemistry rather than a paycheck. Geovanni hopes to continue working with artists who push boundaries and create images that stay with people not only for how they look, but for the stories they tell.
https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/1014122-2846948 IMDb IMDb.me/GeovanniGill Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reel/CmxXFBhPz1X/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA https://vimeo.com/964775829
STEPHANIE
Davis • San Francisco, California
Editorial • Fashion • Runway
Producer/Creative Director/Editor Simone Oguntala Photography Vince @clearlyvince Photography Assist Zhen hui @znwu MUA Chelsea @bychelseamari Shoot Assist AJ @fatesfashionbyaj Lucy @lucymallorystyling Jason @kid.jason.13 Addison @addisonogu 
Wardrobe/Styling: Bryan George Calloway @fashionstylingwithslim Photography/Editing: Hernandez Arturo @goldenbay_photography
Stephanie is based in Davis and works primarily within the San Francisco modeling market. Her journey began after friends and even strangers encouraged her to consider modeling during her final year of college. Just before starting graduate school, she took her first digitals, submitted them after moving to California, and was signed later that year. What started as a side endeavor became something more meaningful once she experienced runway and editorial work firsthand and began to appreciate modeling as a form of artistry and expression. Her aesthetic has leaned heavily toward editorial and art-driven work, including a memorable shoot directed by designer Simone Oguntala. As her look evolves, Stephanie hopes to open the door to more opportunities, including major fashion campaigns, NYFW, and Paris Fashion Week, while always being remembered as professional, open, and personable.
https://stephanieatampugre.wixsite.com/my-site
MYLES DAVIS
Sacramento, California
Lifestyle • Streetwear • Runway
Myles Davis began modeling in 2019, just before the pandemic, and continued building momentum as opportunities returned, including signing with a management company and being cast for a production in Los Angeles. His work is rooted in lifestyle modeling, with a look that moves comfortably between casual and streetwear, along with interests in health, wellness, and runway. Recent highlights include walking in both San Francisco and Sacramento Fashion Week, experiences that felt especially meaningful because they allowed him to model within his home region of Northern California. Myles has also worked with brands including La Croix and Trumer Pils. Looking ahead, he plans to keep growing in modeling while expanding further into acting, and hopes people remember the positive energy he brought to every set and project.
AVERAII DIRKS
San Francisco, California
Runway • Performance • Creative Direction • Coaching
Averaii Dirks brings together fashion, performance, leadership, and advocacy through a career that extends well beyond the runway. Based in San Francisco, she is a model, actress, dancer, runway coach, and creative entrepreneur with roots in ballroom and fashion. Her experience spans runway, creative direction, public speaking, and community leadership, including participation in international spaces such as the World Pride Conference and Model United Nations. As a runway coach, Averaii helps emerging talent strengthen their confidence, presence, and individuality while continuing to advance her own career in fashion and entertainment, with New York Fashion Week among the opportunities she hopes to pursue. Through every part of her work, she aims to use creativity and her voice to inspire others, create opportunities, and make an impact both on and beyond the runway.
https://www.instagram.com/avaree2k?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
RAYSHAWN DUNAWAY
San Leandro, California
Runway • Fashion • Performance
Agency :
PMTM agency
Rayshawn Dunaway found modeling while looking for a place to perform his music, when a designer at an art and fashion venue saw something in him and invited him to model. What began unexpectedly quickly became another creative language, helping him strengthen both his stage presence and confidence as a performer. Rayshawn describes his style with the same feeling he brings to music and poetry: neo-soul finesse, a jazz spirit, and a natural flow that he compares to a Maxwell track. One of his standout moments came at Sacramento Fashion Week, where he helped celebrate designer James Head’s 40 years in fashion and surprised the audience with an unexpected dance routine on the runway. Rayshawn’s goals reach toward New York, Paris, and London Fashion Week, and he wants people to know that he takes his craft seriously, never takes an opportunity for granted, and believes presence can sell a look just as powerfully as convention.
__https://www.instagram.com/rayshawntheartiste?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
SAVANNAH SIMS
Sacramento, California
Beauty • Print • Runway • Editorial
Savannah Sims entered modeling through pageantry, earning titles including Miss Black Sacramento 2017 and Miss Global World Universal 2025 before expanding into print and runway through creative networking in Sacramento. What kept her pursuing modeling was how natural and enjoyable it felt, while also giving her space to explore her creative side. Savannah embraces the uniqueness of her look—especially the gap she proudly loves—and has worked across beauty campaigns, brand shoots, runway, editorial, fitness, and acting. Her accomplishments include multiple magazine publications, Sacramento and Los Angeles Fashion Week, and campaigns with Vive Cosmetics and Instabrow. Today, she approaches modeling with gratitude, continuing to sharpen her craft while staying ready for bigger opportunities whenever they arrive.
https://www.instagram.com/savvyy916?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
ALEXIS ORTIZ CUEVAS
San Jose, California
Runway • Fashion • Editorial
Alexis Ortiz Cuevas began modeling in 2024 after attending a casting in San Jose and being selected to walk his first runway. What made him want to continue was how much fun he had with the experience, especially meeting new people and connecting with different designers. Alexis describes his style as sexy, masculine, and sultry, bringing a confident presence to his work. One of his favorite accomplishments so far was being part of LA Fashion Week in 2025. As he continues building his career, Alexis hopes to earn more paid opportunities, work with bigger shows and high-profile brands, and proudly represent his Colombian roots while encouraging people to experience the beauty of his home country.
CYNTHIA JACKSON
Stockton, California
Runway • Commercial • Lifestyle • Print
A boutique runway show in Stockton gave Cynthia Jackson her first introduction to modeling, and the experience quickly grew into something she wanted to pursue more seriously. Based in California’s Central Valley, Cynthia has found confidence and creative freedom through fashion while developing a style she describes as versatile, elegant, and self-assured. She enjoys runway for the presence and personality it allows her to bring forward, while commercial and lifestyle work give her space to tell a story and connect with different audiences. Career highlights include walking in the NYFW Indie Fashion Show and participating in a commercial shoot. Cynthia hopes to continue expanding into runway, commercial, and print work with major brands and designers while being remembered for her professionalism, authenticity, positive energy, and willingness to take chances.
https://www.instagram.com/cent2.0?igsi=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D
JAMES WALKER II
Oakland • Los Angeles, California
Fashion • Commercial • Runway • Lifestyle
James Walker II first experienced modeling as a child in the Bay Area before returning to the industry as an adult in Los Angeles in 2023. What began as a part-time creative outlet alongside entrepreneurship and a corporate career became more serious after he walked in the GAP x Harlem’s Fashion Row runway show during All-Star Weekend in 2025. Since then, James has embraced everything from high fashion and streetwear to commercial acting, social content, and brand partnerships, working with names including Beautiful Bastard, Poshmark, Stella Rosa, Magnum VS, Shiner Spirits, Meco’s Wellness, and Rajawongse Clothier. His biggest goal is simple: keep enjoying the work, pursue opportunities that genuinely make him happy, and one day see himself on billboards in Times Square and across the Bay Area.
https://linktr.ee/walkthroughtravel
LESLIE
San Diego, California
Editorial • Creative • Commercial
Leslie’s introduction to modeling came unexpectedly when a friend invited her to do a photoshoot, giving her the push to try something she had always considered but never had the courage to pursue. What began as a one-time experience quickly became something more as she discovered how much she enjoyed the creative collaboration between model and photographer. Her style is adaptable, but she is especially drawn to shoots that allow her to evolve, embody different characters, and help bring imaginative concepts to life. Leslie also values working with creatives who challenge traditional beauty standards. Some of her favorite experiences have included collaborating with clothing brands, while her biggest accomplishment has been simply stepping outside of her comfort zone. Moving forward, she hopes to keep growing, work with brands and photographers who share her vision, and inspire others to embrace self-love and take chances on themselves.
https://www.instagram.com/ad.leslie?igsi=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_sourc
ADOREREE TAGGART (A.T.DAKING)
Sacramento, California
Fashion • Lifestyle • Editorial
Adoreree Taggart, also known as A.T.DaKing, came to modeling through a genuine love of fashion, creativity, and self-expression. What began as an interest gradually became something more serious as modeling gave him a way to show confidence, personality, and individuality through visual storytelling. His style is versatile, authentic, and adaptable, with a preference for fashion and lifestyle projects that allow personality to come through rather than simply posing for the camera. Each shoot has also become a way for Adoreree to measure his own growth in confidence, professionalism, and preparation. Looking ahead, he wants to expand his portfolio, work with talented photographers, designers, brands, and creative teams, and continue challenging himself while showing others that there is no expiration date on pursuing a dream.
JAYDA IRENE
Oakland • Sacramento, California
Print • Editorial • Lifestyle • Commercial
Jayda Irene, born and raised in Oakland and now based in Sacramento, first stepped into modeling as a practice model for a neighbor expanding from maternity photography into working with models. As her skills progressed quickly, she began to see modeling as more than a creative experiment and became especially drawn to the idea of being a muse and helping bring art to life. Her work spans print, editorial, lifestyle, and commercial modeling, with previous runway experience as well. Some of her proudest moments so far include modeling for Fenty Beauty and KVD Beauty. Looking ahead, Jayda hopes to become the face of a worldwide beauty campaign, work with major global brands, and remind others that they do not have to limit themselves to just one dream or one path.
https://www.healingheelsofficial.com/transitions-showcase
SAPNA
Bay Area, California
Sapna’s connection to fashion and the arts began at a young age, but her modeling journey took shape after meeting photographers at an event who invited her to collaborate. As she became more involved in the industry, she recognized the lack of diversity and representation for brown Indian women, giving her work a deeper purpose beyond the camera. Sapna enjoys both commercial and editorial modeling, along with the energy and creativity of runway shows. Her accomplishments include being published in several fashion magazines and walking in both Los Angeles Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week. Through every shoot and runway opportunity, Sapna hopes to represent her community and contribute to a more inclusive vision of beauty within fashion.
https://www.instagram.com/sapna_diaries?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
ALADRIA BROWN
Sacramento, California
Beauty • Fashion • Editorial • Lifestyle
Storytelling is what first pulled Aladria Brown into modeling. Coming from acting and content creation, she discovered how much she enjoyed expressing emotion, personality, and ideas through photography. With each shoot, her confidence grew, and being published and invited back for new opportunities helped her see modeling as a career she could continue building. Aladria describes her style as bold, feminine, versatile, and expressive, with a love for beauty, fashion, editorial, and lifestyle work. Her accomplishments include features in CYNX Magazine and VoyageLA, along with a memorable shoot with the River Fox Train. Looking ahead, she hopes to work with major fashion, beauty, travel, and luxury brands while being remembered for believing in herself, continuing to evolve, and creating a lane of her own.
https://www.instagram.com/laythemuse?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
