MODEL SPOTLIGHT SERIES Devin Graham, Owning the Camera, On His Own Terms
Photographed by: Gato Rivero @gatoriverop
In this exclusive edition of our Model Spotlight Series, Lifestyle Plus Magazine New York sits down with rising talent Devin Graham, a model with the vision, voice, and vulnerability that mark the next generation of icons. From his cinematic inspirations to his grounding self-care rituals, Devin lets us into his world both on and off set.
Q&A with Devin Graham
Tell us how you got into modeling. Was it always part of the plan?
It all started almost by chance—but it never felt like an accident. For as long as I can remember, strangers would stop me and ask if I was a model or say I should be one. Eventually, I got tired of just hearing it. I wanted to stop wondering "what if" and actually go for it and I did.
Have you had your breakthrough moment yet?
Honestly, I don’t think I’ve had that moment just yet between us, I’m still waiting for it. But I will say that working with Adidas was a dream come true. Out of all the brands I’ve worked with so far, that one really meant something.
How would you describe your personal style?
For me, style isn’t about chasing trends it’s about telling a story. I take inspiration from a lot of places: old cinema, the understated elegance of ‘90s menswear, and the quiet confidence of people who dress for themselves, not for approval. My influences go beyond people they’re moods, textures, and moments in time.
What’s something people misunderstand about modeling?
People often think modeling is just about looking good in front of a camera, but it’s so much more than that. It’s discipline showing up at your best, no matter how you’re feeling. It’s storytelling bringing meaning to a glance or a pose. And it’s resilience handling rejection, long hours, and constant growth. The final image might look effortless, but the work behind it is anything but.
When do you feel most powerful?
I feel most powerful the moment I know I’ve booked a gig and especially when I walk onto set. There’s something electric about soaking in the energy of the space and then stepping in front of the camera to work my magic. That’s when I come alive.
What brands are on your dream collaboration list?
Definitely Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Dior, Hermès, and Brioni. Those are the ones I see myself walking for, representing, and evolving with creatively.
What’s your self-care routine?
My self-care starts the night before with at least seven hours of sleep to reduce puffiness. Then I either get a workout or walk in. After a shower, I start my routine: brush my teeth, cleanse my face, apply an eye mask, and finish with a toner and hydrating moisturizer. Simple but effective.
What’s been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
The biggest challenge has been learning to separate my identity from constant outside opinions. In this industry, you're evaluated endlessly—your face, your body, your energy. Early on, I took it all personally. But I’ve learned that if you let that define you, you lose your individuality. I overcame it by focusing on my craft, staying grounded in who I am beyond modeling, and remembering that authenticity is everything.
How do you stay grounded off-camera?
I remind myself that the version of me off-camera is just as important. I stay grounded by spending time with people who know me beyond the lens, keeping routines that have nothing to do with fashion, and disconnecting when I need to. Trends fade, edits age—but your values, your energy, your integrity—those never go out of style.
Where do you see your career going next?
I see my path moving toward projects where fashion meets storytelling—campaigns and collaborations that speak to something deeper. I want to work with creatives and brands that care about emotional impact as much as aesthetics. In the end, my goal is to be more than a model—I want to be an icon. A star. Someone who redefines what it means to be a top male model and storyteller.
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