Benita Kai: Stepping outside of one’s comfort zone can lead to growth and new opportunities.

Benita Kai models for a digital cover of HBZVN in September 2024. Dress, Autonomie. Jewelry: Azza Fahmy. Heels and tights: stylist’s wardrobe.

Benita’s career didn’t start in front of the camera. Instead, she began as a rhythmic gymnast, running her own studio where she shared her passion with others. “Modeling has never been my main focus,” she reveals. Despite this, her curious nature and openness to new opportunities led her to explore the world of fashion.

Dress, Herve Leger by “Etoile La boutique”. Jewelry, Azza Fahmy.

Through modeling, Benita Kai has had the chance to travel, meet new people, and experience things she never imagined. Yet, despite her success, she remains grounded and focused on her future endeavors. “I’m really excited about working on my own brand, which I can share with everyone soon,” she teases, pointing to exciting projects on the horizon.

Dress, Herve Leger by “Etoile La boutique”. Jewelry, Azza Fahmy.

One of Benita’s most memorable recent experiences was her photoshoot for Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. “I loved the team that was so passionate about bringing the idea to life,” she shares. The collaborative environment on set helped her feel confident, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable. Each image in the shoot embodies a different element of strength, style, and individuality.

Dress, Dima Ayad. Heels, Versace. Jewelry, Azza Fahmy.

The bold, striking looks seen in the photos push Benita outside her usual glamorous comfort zone, offering a new and unexpected portrayal of her character. “The style of the photoshoot is very unusual for me,” she admits. Known for her glam looks, this project took Benita Kai in a different direction, portraying a character that is strong, fearless, and even a little bizarre.

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Total look, Versace.

“The theme of the shoot is about finding beauty in imperfections,” Benita explains. Instead of focusing solely on traditional beauty, the shoot presents a figure who is powerful in her uniqueness. The bold outfits, striking makeup, and confident poses all contribute to this theme, challenging the viewer to see beyond the surface and appreciate a more nuanced form of beauty.

Dress, Marmar Halim.

The message Benita Kai hopes to share through her Harper’s Bazaar feature is clear: beauty is multifaceted, and strength can be found in embracing one’s imperfections. The boldness and confidence she exudes in these images serve as a reminder that stepping outside of one’s comfort zone can lead to growth and new opportunities.

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Dress, Marmar Halim.

Photographed by: Denis Campos @denisstudios.
Art Direction & Styling: Dani K @dani.kvr.
Model: Benita Kai @aetaraa.
Model Agency: Talent Model Management @talentmodelmgmt.
Makeup: Jean Kairouz @le.kairouz.
Hair Styling: Maggie Semaan @maggiesemaan.
Digital Retouching: Alena Iskra @retouch_iskra.
Photography Assistant: Juanfer Garcia @juanfenadof.
Styling Assistant: Azmi Aulia Putri @stylishly.me.
PR Agency: Identity Media Agency @identitymediaagency.

Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam