Scarlett Leithold

Writer Jenny Heyside @theblondera
Photographer Tracy Kahn @tracykahn

Born and raised in Los Angeles, 19-year-old Scarlett Leithold is making waves in the modeling and social media world with her endless legs, witty Tweets, and sunny West Coast charm. Scouted at the airport when she was only 14, the young model was signed within a year, and then quickly became internationally known as the face of Brandy Melville. Since then she has posed for SURFING’s 2016 Swimsuit Issue, styled pieces in collaboration with Are You Am I, and graced our Winter 2016 cover! We thought it was about time to get to know her a little bit better and finally learn the secret behind the perfect Instagram aesthetic.

JH: How did you get discovered?

SL: I was stopped in an airport with my family when I was 14. The agent had me come meet with the rest of the agency, and a year later I decided I wanted to give modeling a try and signed with them!

JH: Are there any models that you look up to?

SL: I admire Victoria’s Secret Angels because of how much self-discipline and hard work they go through to maintain their bodies and careers. Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, and Rosie Huntington-Whitely are my favorites.

JH: You have over 1.6 million followers and such a great engagement rate. What’s your secret to a successful Instagram?

SL: I don’t know what the secret to a successful Instagram is, but I think people follow you when they’re interested in your life! I try to post a variety of photos and not be too repetitive, as well as keeping it organic, natural, and being myself. I don’t really have a planned out feed. I pretty much just post what I like, and try not to post too much of the same thing.

JH: Which Instagram accounts do you love?

SL: @Shitmodelmgmt @overheardla and more like that… I love funny accounts!

JH: Describe your personal style in 3 words.

SL: Easy, comfortable, versatile.

JH: What’s one item in your closet you would never throw away?

SL: A plain black body suit. It’s my go-to under jeans when I want something easy.

JH: Who are your favorite fashion designers?

SL: Right now I love Vetements, Celine, and Tommy Hilfiger.

JH: What do you like to wear both on and off-camera?

SL: Boy clothes! I’ve shot in men’s wear a couple of times and it looks really cool and high fashion. Offcamera, I love wearing men’s jackets, hoodies, t-shirts and even sweats.

JH: What are your favorite places to shop in your city of LA?

SL: I’m more of an online shopper. I like seeing clothes on someone without having to try them on. Every now and then I’ll go shopping at the Third Street Promenade, Beverly Center, or Rodeo Drive if I feel like splurging.

JH: What’s your beauty regimen like?

SL: My beauty routine is all about moisture. I moisturize constantly, usually after I wash my face with a gentle cleanser, before bed and when I wake up. I also try to use simple products like aloe, jojoba oil, and other natural moisturizers.

JH: Do you have any beauty secrets?

SL: I put Vaseline on my eyelashes at night. It makes your lashes grow like crazy and they don’t get brittle after wearing mascara all day.

JH: What is your favorite way to stay fit?

SL: I love taking exercise classes because it pushes me harder than disciplining myself at the gym. I love hot yoga and barre classes.

JH: How do you treat yourself ?

SL: I love to treat myself by ordering in Thai food and watching movies in bed!

JH: What are your goals for your modeling career?

SL: There are a few brands specifically that I aspire to work for, but my goal for my modeling career is to work as hard as I can and see how far it takes me. I want to start walking in more shows, shooting more editorials and large campaigns.

JH: What would be your advice for someone who wants to start modeling?

SL: My advice is to work hard and take care of yourself! Health, happiness, and confidence are the most attractive traits to have and they will get you far.