Bethany Nagy graces the digital weekly cover of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. Photographer: Tom Marvel. Trench, dress, and glasses, Versace.
Bethany Nagy is an inspiring figure in the fashion industry, known for defying age-related norms by starting her modeling career at 25, a time many considered too late. Over the years, her career flourished, marked by iconic moments such as opening shows for prestigious brands like YSL and Balmain. In this interview, Nagy reflects on her journey, discusses the importance of age representation, and shares valuable insights on mental health, personal style, and embracing the evolving fashion world.
Full look, Saint Laurent.
Harper’s Bazaar (HBZVN): You started your modeling career at what was considered a “retirement age” in the industry. What have been the key factors that have contributed to your longevity and success in modeling?
BETHANY NAGY: I was 25 and attending graduate school when I began modeling, in 1995, and was told that most models retire at that age and that I’d likely only work for about two years, at most. I feel quite fortunate that as I moved through the beginning of my career, there appeared to be a consumer demand for models in their 20’s and 30’s.
My hot take about the more recent surge in demand for models 40+ is a mixture of consumer demand and demand from within the fashion and beauty industries for a wider range of age representation.
On the personal side of the equation, longevity and success stem from being represented by incredible agencies, working with an endless count of talented creative teams, staying disciplined about diet and exercise and always finding opportunities to learn something new on every job.
Full look, Balmain. Hat, Binata Millinery.
HBZVN: Reflecting on your journey from starting at 25 to becoming a prominent figure in fashion, what has been the most rewarding part of your career, and what are you most proud of?
BETHANY NAGY: The most rewarding parts of my career have been the friendships made and the places traveled— the cultural exchange inherent in those two things has provided a depth to life and understanding of the world I could have never predicted. Honestly, I am most proud of the fact that at my core, I have not changed much from when I first began my career and I don’t take any level or indication of success for granted.
Full look, Balmain.
HBZVN: What keeps you inspired and motivated, especially during challenging times in your career?
BETHANY NAGY: Creative expression that comes from within and that which is found in all forms of art and nature inspires and motivate me. In addition, family and friends have been a constant source of inspiration, love and support through all the ups and downs of work and life and I can only hope I have provided them the same.
Blazer, Marc Jacobs. Shoes, Balmain. Necklace, Pluma.
HBZVN: You have a history of walking THE PARIS SHOWS FOR YSL and last season opened for Balmain. How do you feel about opening such a prestigious event, and what does this opportunity mean to you at this stage of your career?
BETHANY NAGY: Being chosen for those experiences was wholly unexpected and the feelings of humble gratitude and exhilaration I felt in all of those moments have stayed with me to this very day. I will never forget how I felt, nor will I forget those that helped make them happen.
Top & coat, Givenchy. Ring, Pluma. Boots, vintage.
HBZVN: How would you describe your personal fashion style, and how has it evolved over the years with your experiences in the fashion industry?
BETHANY NAGY: In all honesty, I think most of the people who know me would label me as having a “pragmatic” fashion style, LOL (read easy to pack and lots of black). Comfort and simplicity rule my general fashion staples but dang, I sure do enjoy stepping out in more daring looks when given the opportunity.
Top & coat, Givenchy. Ring, Pluma. Boots, vintage.
HBZVN: The fashion industry can be quite demanding. How do you practice mindfulness and take care of your mental health amidst a busy schedule? Are there particular exercises or dietary practices that you follow to stay in shape?
BETHANY NAGY: It took me a long time to acknowledge that taking time for oneself in this industry was a key to longevity in it. Taking time to be deep in nature has always been my primary source of mindfulness and meditation. Swimming and hiking are my primary forms of exercise, at this age, and I absolutely swear by them both to keep my mind and body in shape. My diet primarily consists of a variety of healthy foods but somehow I can never eat enough quinoa and broccoli to satisfy my cravings of them, haha.
Blazer dress, Alexander McQueen.
HBZVN: As a high-fashion model, what is your personal philosophy regarding fashion and modeling? How do you view the role of a model in the fashion industry?
BETHANY NAGY: Can’t say that I have a philosophy, per se. I view my role as a model on set as providing the client with opportunities to bring their vision to life no matter the product.
Trench & bodysuit, Proenza Schouler. Shoes, Aera.
HBZVN: You’ve been a vocal advocate against ageism in the fashion industry. How do you perceive the changes in the industry regarding diversity and inclusion of older models over the past few years?
BETHANY NAGY: I perceive the changes in the industry regarding diversity in all forms as a better representation of the world as a whole. My belief is that those changes could only be made by the changes we have seen in leadership roles within the industry coupled with consumer demand.
Trench, top & pants, Jason Wu Collection. Shoes, Saint Laurent. Hat, Binata Millinery.
HBZVN: As a seasoned model, do you engage in mentoring younger models or advocating for changes within the industry? If so, what advice do you give them?
BETHANY NAGY: Advice and wisdom passes equally between younger and older models. I have learned so much from my time working with younger models the past few years and admire and respect how they approach their work and their personal lives. The advice I share is to savor all the incredible experiences this industry can provide, make sure you’re putting money aside for your future, stay true to yourself and take good care of your mental and physical health.
Trench, top & pants, Jason Wu Collection. Shoes, Saint Laurent. Hat, Binata Millinery.
HBZVN: Your favorite💄?
BETHANY NAGY: Any fabulous siren red always elevates my look.
HBZVN: Favorite perfume?
BETHANY NAGY: I have several timeless favorites, but I love a feminine mixture of floral and citrus. It reminds me of my Mom when she would go to special events when I was young, and the scent instantly brings back those cherished memories.
Dress, Jean Paul Gaultier. Shoes, Dear Frances.
HBZVN: And your favorite 👠?
BETHANY NAGY: I have a pair of Prada stilettos that have brought me luck over the years.
HBZVN: Finally, your favorite 👜?
BETHANY NAGY: I love vintage designer bags. I have a fabulous YSL bag that I bought in Paris after my first show, and I hope to invest in a Balmain bag this season.
Dress, Alaia. Shoes, Manolo Blahnik.
HBZVN: Thank you for taking the time to speak with our readers. We wish you continued happiness, health, and success in both your life and career.
Talent: Bethany Nagy @bethanynagy_model C/o lori@iconicfocus.com.
Producer/Photographer: Tom Marvel @tommarvelphotography.
Creative Director: Cannon @thecannonmediagroup at Ray Brown @raybrownpro.
Lighting Director: Pierre Bonnet @pierrebonnet.
Director of Video: James Webber @james_weber.
Digital Tech: Olivia Wohlers @wohliviaa.
Photographer Assistants: John Ruiz Ossa @johnruizphoto, Michele Swain @mswain696.
Grip: George Santos @gspepe.
Hair: Linh Nguyen @linhhair at SEE Management @seemanagement.
Makeup: Mark Williamson @markwilliamson45 at Artist Management @artistmanagementmiami.
Video Assistant: Andre Hemmit Jr @vndrethe.ii.
Fashion Team: Winnie Noan @winnie_noan | Maksim Mizgirev @lu3alo | Kayla Guerrero @kaylabreanne_ | Dazani @dazaniprice | Charlotte Van Ingen @charvaningen.
Digital Artist: Marilynn Hawkridge www.retouchingbymarilynn.com.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
