For the past decade, Models.com’s The Graduates series has been a visual check-in with the models of the moment who have consistently performed at the highest levels, going from the rising newcomers on the Hot List to the Top 50 recognizable muses throughout the world. Stars like Bella Hadid, Hoyeon, Vittoria Ceretti, Selena Forrest, and Sora Choi, to name a few, have all taken part of the milestone series that uniquely marks the shift in a model’s career. With major bookings in editorials, advertisements, lookbooks, and on the runway, these models have consistently locked down luxury clients in the most competitive markets while continuing to dominate on the global stage.
To commemorate our tenth year, we flew to Paris during the madness of fashion week to shoot all the top talent with photographer Mauricio Sierra. This year’s cast connects with the Models.com team to divulge how they got their starts, the key brands and creatives that have made their careers, and taking their place in the upper echelons.
In a year defined by rising stars, French model Ylang Messenguiral has established herself within a market that can be less than accommodating for a variety of sizes. Starting her journey just before the COVID-19 pandemic, she turned an unexpected moment into an extraordinary launchpad. “When COVID happened, I decided to just drop school and find something else to do,” she recalls. “Modeling came at the same moment, so I just thought, okay, this is a new door opening.” Despite the global pause, Ylang’s career accelerated, making her one of the current era’s rare success stories. From her memorable debut at Jacquemus’ open-air venue to her work with Calvin Klein, Etro, and Versace, the Top 50 model has built an impressive portfolio, proving that resilient focus can indeed be a catalyst for growth. Born on the outskirts of Paris with roots in Madagascar, Ylang embraced her multicultural identity sharing, “Madagascar is such a rich, diverse country in nature. It’s an island with influences from India, China, and Africa.” This background has helped shape her outlook on beauty and representation noting, however, that true body diversity remains an ongoing challenge. “We’re still a minority,” she observes candidly, adding, “The [show] spots we get are so low, but it’s changing. Big brands are starting to open their size categories. We’re here, and we’re still fighting for it.”
Viscose knit bralette – STYLIST’S OWN
“The spots we get are so low, but it’s changing. Big brands are starting to open their size categories. We’re here, and we’re still fighting for it.”
Left: Second skin top – NAMI | Right: Coat – HIGHLIGHT STUDIO, Shorts and loafers – STYLIST’S OWN
Not traditionally a runway model, Ylang has defied expectations by securing a spot on the Top 50—a milestone she considers a personal triumph. “Even for my agent, it was surprising. I’m not a show girl; I’m an editorial girl,” she says with a smile. “But people realized that covers and editorials are just as much a part of the industry. That’s been rewarding.” Her early editorial work with Self-Service quickly led her to shoots with industry photogs like Oliver Hadlee Pearch, Tyler Mitchell, and Larissa Hofmann. Behind the camera, Ylang has discovered a space where she truly shines bright. “I feel one hundred percent confident during editorial,” she says, appreciating the essential collaborative energy of each shoot. “I feel like everyone is sharing a little bit of themselves, and having the final print a few months later is one of the best feelings in this industry.” This focus has guided her rapid rise, with covers and campaigns that reflect both her authenticity and her adaptability. Outside of modeling, Ylang dedicates her down time to painting and drawing, a passion she pursued before her career took off. “Art allows me to clear my head,” she says, describing how she incorporates the creative practice for better mental clarity. Looking ahead, she envisions branching further into the industry, declaring “I see myself on the editorial and cover side,” she reflects, “but maybe also in a beauty or fragrance campaign—or even on the acting side of fashion.”
