Deborah Von:Confidence doesn’t come before the decision. It grows because of it.

You made the bold decision to leave a successful corporate career to pursue modeling full-time. What led you to that turning point, and how did it feel to commit fully to fashion?

For many years, I balanced modeling alongside my corporate career, but there came a point when I realized fashion wasn't simply an interest—it was where I felt most inspired and fulfilled. I wanted to dedicate my energy to building something that genuinely reflected who I am. Once I found the courage to truly pursue my dream, it felt both exciting and liberating. It meant choosing growth over comfort and trusting that discipline and consistency would help me build the career I envisioned.

Many people dream of a change like yours but hesitate to take it. What gave you the confidence to trust this path, and what has surprised you most since?

I don't think confidence comes before the decision—it grows because of it. I accepted that there were no guarantees, but I also knew I would regret not giving myself the opportunity to pursue something I truly loved. It can be scary at times, but it's also deeply rewarding.

What has surprised me most is how generous and supportive the fashion community can be. Every collaboration has taught me something new, and I've been fortunate to have incredible encouragement from my family, friends, and creative partners throughout this journey.

Your work is grounded in timeless elegance, discipline, and refined aesthetics. How would you describe the personal brand you're building, and what do you want people to feel when they see your imagery?

I'm building a brand centered on quiet confidence, sophistication, and authenticity. Rather than following trends, I'm interested in creating imagery that feels timeless and emotionally connected.

When someone sees my work, I hope they feel inspired to stay true to themselves instead of believing they need to follow trends to feel accepted. I truly believe authenticity is what brings lasting confidence and happiness.

Discipline and consistency clearly shape your approach. How do the habits from your corporate years influence the way you work in fashion today?

My corporate career taught me professionalism, organization, and accountability—qualities that are just as important in fashion as they are in business.

I approach every shoot, fitting, and runway with preparation and respect for everyone involved. Being reliable, humble, communicating clearly, and consistently delivering my best work are values I carried with me from the corporate world.

You specialize across runway, editorial, swimwear, and luxury campaigns. How do you adapt your presence and mindset as you move between these different worlds?

Each discipline tells a different story.

Runway is about movement, confidence, and embodying the designer's vision. Editorial work allows for more emotion and character. Swimwear emphasizes body awareness and strength, while luxury campaigns often require subtlety and sophistication. I enjoy adapting because it allows me to explore different sides of visual storytelling while remaining true to my overall aesthetic. I see them as different expressions of the same person.

Copacabana Dreams carries a strong sense of place and identity. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind it and what you set out to capture?

Copacabana Dreams was inspired by the timeless glamour of the Carnival Ball at the iconic Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro.

We wanted to honor Brazilian Carnival by celebrating its elegance, craftsmanship, and atmosphere. The editorial combines couture, architecture, and Brazilian culture to create a story that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to my heritage.

Your connection to Brazil seems central to your storytelling. How does your heritage shape the imagery you create and the projects you choose?

Brazil has given me an appreciation for beauty, culture, creativity, and human connection.

Even when working internationally, I naturally gravitate toward projects that celebrate craftsmanship, vibrant culture, and meaningful storytelling. I love showing another side of Brazil—one that reflects elegance, sophistication, and artistic expression.

You enjoy work that brings together fashion, travel, architecture, and culture. What draws you to that combination, and how do these elements strengthen an editorial's identity?

I've always believed that fashion becomes even more powerful when it's placed within a meaningful environment.

Architecture, hotels, cities, and cultural landmarks add context and emotion to an editorial. They create a sense of place that allows the viewer to experience more than clothing—they experience a story and become part of its narrative.

Miami Swim Week and luxury swimwear campaigns have been recent highlights. What have those experiences taught you about runway presence and performing on a major stage?

They taught me that runway is as much about presence as it is about walking.

Preparation, confidence, and staying calm under pressure make all the difference.

Every show has helped me refine my movement, understand my body better, and develop the ability to communicate confidence through subtle details rather than exaggerated performance.

You value collaborating with designers and photographers who share a sophisticated creative vision. What makes a collaboration truly work for you?

Trust, communication, and a shared creative vision. The strongest collaborations happen when everyone is working toward the same story rather than focusing on individual recognition. I enjoy working with people who value creativity, professionalism, and mutual respect.

Building a long-term career takes patience and authenticity. How do you stay true to yourself while navigating an industry that moves quickly?

I remind myself that comparison isn't a productive way to measure progress. Every career develops differently, and I've learned to focus on building something sustainable rather than chasing immediate validation. Staying connected to my values and choosing opportunities that genuinely align with my vision has helped me remain authentic.

Looking ahead, what are your goals in runway, luxury campaigns, and international publications, and where do you hope to see your career in the coming years?

My goal is to continue expanding internationally through runway, editorials, luxury campaigns, and publications while building a recognizable and lasting personal brand. I'd love to collaborate with fashion houses, luxury hospitality, beauty, and travel brands that value storytelling capable of inspiring people and creating a positive impact. More than anything, I hope my career reflects consistency, professionalism, and a genuine passion for creating beautiful work.

Photographer: Djan Skwara @Djan Skwara Fotografia @djanskwarafotografia

Model: Deborah Von @deborahvonj