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Home · News

Model Behavior: Sessilee Lopez

23-year old Sessilee Lopez was a star from the second she stepped onto her first runway in 2004. But it wasn't until year, when she landed the cover Italian Vogue's "The Black Issue," that the Florida-native suddenly became famous famous. She, along with Arlenis Sosa, Jourdan Dunn and Chanel Iman, Lopez suddenly became part of a black model elite, landing the most in-demand runway shows, editorials and campaigns. With her strong brows, killer cheekbones and sultry, curving smile, Lopez is one of fashion's most lauded beauties--but in September, it was her new, bobbed hairdo that stole the spotlight. Here, the sepia-skinned goddess chats with us about her hair regimen, what's in her makeup bag, and her favorite model. Bet you can't guess who it is.
By · December 18, 2009October 29, 2020
01
Trick of the Trade

“I’ve learned so many great hair and makeup tips backstage at shows,” says Lopez, seen here working the catwalk at the 2008 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. “The best makeup tip, though, is to always do your eyes first. That way, you can really play with eyeshadow and liner without worrying about messing up the rest of your look.”

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02
Model Must-Haves

Lopez jet-sets all over the world, but always keeps her tried-and-true beauty faves in her handbag. “I always have CK One ($12.99) with me…it leaves me feeling fresh and sophisticated,” she says. “Also, I always have MAC Mineralize Skinfinish ($27) in my purse, which looks so natural and is perfect for touch-ups. I use chapstick for day, but at night I always carry a MAC Lustreglass lip gloss ($14).”

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03
Short Cut

In September, Sessilee flaunted her new bob haircut at the launch party for Anna Sui’s Target collection. “I was feeling adventurous!” she says. “I think long hair is so youthful and classic, but it’s fun to change your look one in awhile.”

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04
Buzz Worthy

Four years ago, Lopez rocked a short natural that made fashion headlines. “[Short hair] makes me feel more sophisticated,” she says, seen here working the runway at Miss Sixty’s Spring 2007 show. “Plus, it’s easy to manage and fits my face well.”

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05
The Mane Event

From flatiron overkill to backstage back-combing, Fashion Week is hell on Lopez’s locks. “My hair does go through a lot,” she says. “I’m always careful with how I treat it on my off-days. It’s worth it to splurge on moisturizing hair care products.” Try Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturizing Conditioner ($24).

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06
Saving Face

Sessilee’s impeccable complexion is no accident—the supermodel is diligent about her skin regimen. “It’s all about exfoliating a few times a week and moisturizing daily,” she says. “Also, I wash my face with Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentrate ($14). I’m a little OCD when it comes to keeping my skin healthy!”

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07
Amazing Face

Here, Sessilee Lopez rocks Gharani Strok’s Spring/Summer 2006 runway with a chic, short ‘do, strong brows, and a nude lip. "I’m such a fortunate girl," she says. “Because of modeling, I’ve been to so many countries all over the world…all before my twenty-first birthday!”

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08
Beauty Icon

Sessilee is rapidly becoming one of fashion’s greatest muses, but even she her own beauty idols. “I’ve always admired Tyra Banks, not only for her natural beauty, but also for the way she carries herself,” says Lopez. “She is my model inspiration.”

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09
Support System

Sessilee started modeling at 17, and credits her mom with helping her keep a good head on her shoulders. “It’s so important to have a good support system,” she says. “My mom has always been one hundred percent behind me, and I don’t think I’d be where I am today with her advice and encouragement.”

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10
Game Changer

“I’m still building as a model, but the biggest moment of my career so far was shooting ‘The Black Issue’ for Italian Vogue,” says Lopez, seen here on Tuleh’s Spring 2010 runway. “Working with a tremendously talented photographer like Stephen Meisel, and being featured on the cover with Naomi and Liya truly changed my career.”

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