Karlie Kloss likes to think of herself as just another average American teenager (she's 16) who loves ballet, baking and spending time with her sisters. But just three short years after being discovered at a charity fashion show at her local mall, the St. Louis, Missouri native has zoomed to modeling's top tier. The current face of Marc Jacobs's new fragrance, Lola, Kloss landed the Spring 2009 Dolce & Gabbana and Fall 2009 Chloe ad campaigns and starred in W's "100% Fashion" portfolio shot by Craig McDean. Fresh off the Valentino, Gaultier, Givenchy and Armani Prive couture runways, she gamely answered a few of our questions.How do you balance school and modeling?
My school in St. Louis is great. They basically created a program where I can do online classes and independent studies when I'm traveling. But then I still get to go home and take classes in a normal school environment. It's nice to just be a kid and hang out with your friends at lunch.
How were the couture shows?
The shows were gorgeous. Everything was so elaborate and detailed. It's incredible to see these pieces that have had hours and hours of handmade work. Valentino was my favorite.
Kloss in the Valentino and Gaultier couture shows.Do you still get nervous before a show?
Absolutely! Before my first show this season I was like, "Dang, it's been a couple of months since I've been out on the runway." I had the worst case of butterflies.
How do you prepare?
I try to get a good night's sleep and eat a really wholesome dinner the night before. I just try to be in my best condition.
What is it like being the face of Marc Jacobs's new fragrance?I didn't believe it, to be honest. I was shocked. I was like, "No, you're kidding me. Me? Marc Jacobs knows my name?!" I was convinced that they accidentally drew my name out of hat or something.
What would you be doing if you weren't modeling?
I love kids, so two things that I have thought about are being a pediatrician or a kindergarten teacher. I still have to decide, but maybe I'll do both at some point. But one thing at a time, I've got a lot to do before then.
Where are you off to next?
I'm going back home to St. Louis—I'm going to stay in bed for like three days straight. Plus, we'll have to have a big make-up Fourth of July barbeque because I missed it.
"The Skinny" will appear every Tuesday on the Editors' Blog. Check back next week for the next installment.
Photo (top): Tommy Ton for Jak & Jil.
