Time to get acquainted with American beauty and international model, VAN PHAN…
Sexy photo shoot, Van. When do you feel sexy?
I learned to feel comfortable in my own skin. Growing up in an area where not a lot of people looked like me, was difficult. I never felt like I fit in. When I took the leap to move to New York, I quickly realised my hometown was too small for me to grow in. Sometimes you have to put yourself in uncomfortable situations in order to grow. NYC has a place for everyone, and I immediately felt very comfortable being independent in the big city. I wouldn’t be where I am today, especially in the modelling industry.
Tell us a bit more about yourself.
I was born in Vietnam and came to America at the age of four. I had goals in becoming the first doctor in the family, but modelling was always my passion as a child, runway especially – the adrenaline rush is unmatched. After graduating college, I followed my calling to NYC to pursue modelling and found myself in the middle of the fashion capital navigating my way through the industry. Before I knew it, my modelling career took off – internationally, too! My advice is to take every opportunity you get because you never know how it can impact your life.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I’m actually a Neuroscience major and got into medical school. My degree will always be there and is a great fall-back option.
What is your best asset?
I’m very grateful to have been blessed with great Asian skin. Growing up, I never had any skin problems. Resilience is another characteristic to describe me being thrown into NYC right after college to pursue modelling. I had to find my own path and adapt to the industry as it’s constantly changing.
Got a hidden talent?
I’m a creative cook. I take family Vietnamese recipes and add my own twist. I can also visualise how to cook a dish by tasting it.
What have you learned about men over the years?
The best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Cooking!
What’s one thing men should always know about women?
What her love language is.
What do you look for in a man?
Masculinity – protecting and providing for me all while being my peace. Someone I can run home to, finding comfort in their arms no matter the situation.
What’s the weirdest thing someone has sent you via social media?
I’ve gotten enquiries if someone can fly me out to record some coloured slime being poured on me. What an odd request.
What is your motto in life?
“It’s okay, you’ll never see that stranger again. Just keep moving.”
Where would you like to be in five years?
I see myself on a billboard in Soho, NYC representing a major brand like Calvin Klein.
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects on the horizon you can share with us?
Yes! I’m super excited to be a part of Ibiza Swim Week this year, in June. I’m taking my runway experience international this year.
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: Van Phan
BORN: March 6
HOMETOWN: Shelby Township, Michigan USA
FIVE-WORD SELF DESCRIPTION: “Outgoing, fashion-forward, well-travelled, loving, ambitious.”
SNAPCHAT: vanny2000
TIKTOK: @van.vp
INSTAGRAM: @van_phann
Photography by JOSH HARDENBROOK
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