Model Behavior: Selita Ebanks

“I was born in New York, raised in the Cayman Islands, and went to high school on Staten Island,” says the truly international supermodel. We love that, even as a wee tot, Selita had the fashion sense to pair her flouncy frock with a skinny leather belt.

Selita tells us that moisturizer is her friend during Fashion Week. “When I’m between shows, I use moisturizer to both remove and set my makeup…it keeps me looking dewy,” she says, shown here backstage at the 2009 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. “I also like a quick spritz of Evian to keep me fresh.”

“I really admire women who experiment with beauty,” says Ebanks, going for bold glamour here with a wash a plum/violet eyeshadow. “Never be afraid to transform. Beyonce always nails it!”

Selita usually favors a clean, fresh makeup look. In my makeup bag right now, I have Victoria’s Secret High Definition Mascara, Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder, dental floss and hand sanitizer." Smart girl.

“My hair is always under a lot of stress, so I do as little with it as possible,” says Selita, seen here with her soft, flowing waves. “I love a deep conditioner while relaxing at home, and for extra shine I always rinse with cold water.”

To keep her warm, cinnamon-y complexion healthy, Selita depends on serious hydration. “I drink loads of water—always with a slice of lemon—and I moisturize with organic shea butter,” she says. “I also like to dry brush my body before a steamy shower to get my blood circulating and to slough off dry skin.”

A little over a year ago, Ebanks chopped off her signature, waist-length locks. “I was bored with my Barbie appearance,” she says. "As women, we’re fortunate to be able to experiment with color, length, texture and products, so why not do it?

For Selita, looking irresistible is a good thing—but smelling fabulous is even better! Right now I’m obsessed with Escada Incredible Me, she says. “It’s divine! Very sophisticated and flirty.”

The Victoria’s Secret Angel is known for her fierce runway walk and beyond-sexy photo shoots. “My favorite shoot of all time was in 2005,” she says. “It was the holiday shoot for Victoria’s Secret, shot by Transformers director Michael Bay. Very exciting!”

“My advice to aspiring models is to remember this is a career,” says Selita, flashing her dazzling smile. “Do your homework, think business, and never be afraid to accept criticism.”