Model: Hannah Lawson

Hannah Lawson

In an industry characterized by unrealistic body image expectations, Hannah Lawson is a breath of fresh air. Not only is she stunning, she’s a champion of body positivity and the perfect person to front the brand we’ve built. Authentic, dynamic, honest, and full of compelling personality, Hannah is everything Larroudé strives to be. Originally from San Diego, the model moved to NYC after accepting a full scholarship to Fordham, and lucky for us, she’s never looked back. Check her out in front of the lens, and her paintings, publications, musings, poetry, and more on @thehannahlawson.

How did you first begin your career in modeling?

A friend of mine actually sent in photos for me to a few agencies in LA when I was 18 and still in San Diego. I was signed with Wilhelmina LA during my first office visit with them. That contract led to me signing with their NY division 3 years later, and a slew of other agencies in Europe.

How has the industry changed during your career?

When I started in 2016, mid-sized modeling didn’t really have a market yet. I’m really happy to see that now there’s a fast growing market for “in-betweenies” like me to showcase their talents in the modeling world.

How has your own perspective shifted over time?

When I was younger, I always idealized the 1990s/early 2000s Kate Moss aesthetic and wanted to be a model who embodied that look. But now, I see more value in being myself, embracing my own body type, and growing my career for the person I am rather than someone conforming to fit a size requirement.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in life is that your outlook is entirely in your control. Emotions will come and go and life has its peaks and valleys, but how you view yourself and the world around you can be flush with joy and hope if you choose to see it.

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How do you approach the subject of body positivity?

Body positivity is acceptance for all. Often we make assumptions about people based on how they look but we forget the nuances of existence. Perhaps someone who struggles with their weight is battling depression. You never know what someone may be going through so it’s best to ditch the assumptions and instead face the ultimate truth: every body is deserving of love.

Who is an inspiration to you and why?

My biggest inspiration is my friend Tanasha. Not only does she have an incredible sense of humor, I admire her ruthless entrepreneurship as a black woman who owns her own luxury product line, as well as her poised emotional maturity. She always offers me the most sage counsel and I’m deeply grateful to call her my friend.

What is your favorite part of your self, physical or otherwise?

My favorite part of myself is my creativity. I use my creativity in so many ways: in painting, interior design, problem solving, writing. It’s fascinating to me that what we create becomes a kind of extension of who we are and how we’re received. 

How do you stay level-headed in this career?

Staying level-headed as a model becomes a piece of cake once you set your boundaries! The moment I decided I wouldn’t change for this job, it became quite simple. Never compromise who you are and every decision you make will be made with conviction, self-trust, and self-love at heart.

If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?

My advice to my younger self: keep doing what you’re doing. Everything, even the stuff that will look immediately like pain, has a purpose for your development later on. Hang in there.

Favorite Larroudé pair that you can’t stop/won’t stop wearing?

My favorite Larroudé pair is absolutely the ivory Kate boot. I turn so many heads in those!