Conversations with Taylan Kelly

Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylan Kelly.

Hi Taylan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I have always had an affinity for fashion. For as long as I can remember, I have always admired style. I received a scholarship for FABRIC Tempe while in high school and my long goal is to create a brand of clothing that reflects my vision that people can enjoy. I started modeling about a year ago and signed with 2 agencies, The Young Agency, and Deborah Maddox Agency. I most recently finished filming a documentary “ Models On The Move, Journey To Teen Fashion Week.” It was an amazing experience, and I’m grateful to Ms.Young for casting me and giving me the opportunity to share my story on screen.

I have been cast in a TikTok video, The Arizona Wedding Show, The Polo Party, a Phoenix Fashion Week production, and some other awesome roles, it’s been a very exciting journey so far, and I’m ready for what comes next in my career. I was always a smaller kid when I was younger, and unfortunately, experienced some bullying, I never let that define me or change who I am as a person. Instead, it propelled me to always strive to be kind, stay humble, and be the very best version of myself every day I step out into this world. As my mom always says, I was born in fashion.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Most people think that in order to be a model you have to be extremely tall, at first, that is what I thought too. I started posting content locally for a few Designer Fragrance brands and having my photos taken around town. My mom, who was a makeup artist many years ago, but who was previously still in the fashion industry sent submissions to agencies and I wasn’t even aware, she said she could see something “very special” in the work I was posting, she says “the camera loves you”.

I’m grateful to her for always believing in me. There are several different categories for modeling and print has no height limit. Although I thought that I may have some challenges initially, it’s been a smooth road for me. The message is to always follow your dreams.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a Shop Manager for Hugo Boss, what is great about my job is that I have the opportunity to style clients and help them look and feel their best. I’m known for my eclectic style and how I can put outfits together and pull off looks that are unique.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Covid-19 changed pretty much everyone, what I learned from it is an even higher level of appreciation for life in general.

Some people very close to me have struggled with mental health and the pandemic accentuated that, I have an even deeper appreciation and empathy for those who are struggling every day to handle it and thrive.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Taylan_Kelly

Image Credits
Bruce Talbot, Dante La Bella, CNS Photo, and Dillion Photography