Her former roommate, photographer Matthew Atanian, shared insight into her early difficulties, explaining that Melania was often considered "stiff" in her photos, which hindered her success in the industry. He pointed out that Melania’s inability to move fluidly made her stand out less compared to other models. Despite these challenges, Melania remained committed to her craft. Atanian mentioned that she followed a disciplined lifestyle, sticking to a strict diet and exercise regimen to maintain her figure.
Others in the industry were less than impressed with her early work. Former actress Quinn Cummings criticized Melania's early photos, describing them as amateurish and lacking the qualities that would attract top agencies. However, Melania’s passion for fashion was unwavering. Her mother, Amalija Knavs, a children's clothing designer, deeply influenced her interest in the fashion world.
Melania's fortunes changed after meeting Donald Trump in 1998. By the early 2000s, her modeling career had flourished. She appeared on the covers of major magazines like GQ and worked with legendary photographers such as Patrick Demarchelier and Helmut Newton. Her relationship with Trump further boosted her profile, culminating in a high-profile wedding in 2005 and her eventual role as First Lady.
Melania Trump's journey from a struggling model to a prominent public figure highlights the challenges and perseverance needed to succeed in the competitive fashion industry. Her story also shows how personal connections and reinvention can play a crucial role in achieving success.
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