Joan Smalls, 24, first appeared on the international catwalk 13 seasons ago, and since then she’s walked for Givenchy, Dolce & Gabbana, Balmain, Alexander Wang and more. Born in Puerto Rico and based in New York, she’s also the face of Estée Lauder makeup and skincare – and she’s got some sizzling tips for you.
What are the most standout moments of your modelling career to date?
“I had to fight to get to the top and be the best but I learnt that with time (and hard work!) you can watch your dreams come to life. Working with [photographer] Steven Meisel was one of my goals, and when I achieved it, I was over the moon.”
Who are your favourite designers?
“Alexander Wang, Givenchy and Rag & Bone.”
What qualities do you need to become a supermodel?
“Positive energy, a professional attitude and a strong, developed personality of your own.”
How do you stay in shape?
“I have a trainer that I see at least twice 
a week and I go to the gym three times 
a week on top of that.”
What’s your daily 
skincare ritual?
“I keep my skin hydrated by constantly applying moisturiser and using SPF 15 every day, whatever the weather.”
What do you find beautiful in a woman?
“Being attractive has a lot more to do with internal beauty than the exact set of your features. It’s in the happiness you exude and how you interact with and behave towards other people.”
How much importance 
do you place on makeup?
“I love makeup because it’s an expression of individuality! With the right application, you can accentuate different areas of your face, whether it’s your eyes, mouth or cheeks – that really appeals to me.”
What makes you feel especially sexy?
“When I go out at night I always line 
the inside of my eye with black eyeliner – it creates a stunning smouldering look. 
I also love using shimmer on my eyes 
and cheekbones.”
Which product do you use religiously?
“I religiously apply Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum 30ml (R585) morning and night – it’s a miracle worker!”
What would you like to achieve in the future?
“I want to inspire girls in the 
developing world who are fighting for the right to have a career, and I want to do that by being a successful businesswoman myself. I’d also love to have a foundation that helps care for impoverished children.”
