April Fagaragan's journey from a self-taught makeup artist in Hawaii to a recognized figure in high fashion is a story of resilience, creativity, and self-belief. Her rise to success underscores the power of embracing one’s uniqueness and challenging conventional beauty standards.
Early Life and Passion for Fashion
From a young age, April was captivated by the world of fashion. She and her younger brother would transform their living room into a makeshift runway, with April draped in old clothes, pretending to be one of the women in glossy fashion magazines. Recognizing her daughter’s passion, April’s mother enrolled her in modeling school at 13, where she learned the basics of skincare, makeup, and poise. Inspired by makeup gurus like Michelle Phan and Dulce Candy, she became self-taught, using YouTube as her classroom and her creativity as her guide. By 2018, her craft had evolved into a language she could share with the world.
Challenges in Hawaii and the Move to Los Angeles
Living in Hawaii posed challenges for April. The local modeling industry predominantly focused on swimwear and beach aesthetics, with agencies seeking a specific look that she did not fit. Undeterred, she collaborated with photographers, did her own makeup, and styled herself as if she were already working for top fashion magazines. This proactive approach allowed her to build a diverse portfolio. In 2020, seeking broader opportunities, April relocated to Los Angeles. There, she continued to network with designers, photographers, and other creatives, steadily carving out her place in the high-fashion scene.
Defining Moments and Embracing Individuality
A pivotal moment in April’s career came in 2019 at a fashion event in Los Angeles. Despite facing criticism for her tattoos, a designer recognized their artistic value and offered her a prominent position in a swimwear show. This experience reinforced April’s belief in authenticity and embracing one’s unique features. Encouragement from peers further solidified her confidence, leading her to fully commit to her modeling aspirations.
Philosophy and Advice to Aspiring Models
April advocates for self-belief and perseverance. She emphasizes the importance of manifesting one’s desires and not being deterred by negativity. Her mantra, “fake it till you make it,” reflects her approach of embodying aspirations until they become reality. She encourages aspiring models to view themselves as art and remain steadfast in their pursuits, regardless of external opinions.
Looking Ahead
As she continues to evolve in her career, April remains committed to challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting inclusivity in fashion. She aims to collaborate with like-minded creatives and inspire others to embrace their individuality. Her journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and the impact of viewing oneself as a unique work of art.
April Fagaragan’s story is a powerful reminder that true beauty lies in authenticity and that success is attainable when one dares to embrace their unique path. Follow her journey on Instagram: @ikokorou.
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