ON DUTY CITIZEN
MEGAN IRMINGER
1) What are some “big kid” activities you love to do that keeps you youthful?
Um, probably every activity I do! I am easily excitable and love to run around, being silly and making people laugh. I’m a huge advocate for dancing in the streets. Literally. Nothing like having some good jams in your headphones and having a mini dance break at every red light! -Umm.... notto mention your hilariously over the top punn-y Instagram captions. They seriously make me chuckle every time I see them. I think it's important to have a lighthearted attitude in life and you definitely exemplify that and more:)
2) Beyond modeling, what are some cool projects, hobbies or side hustles you’re working on?
I love to bake, and am currently perfecting my gluten free, vegan banana bread recipe (coming soon to a social media outlet near you!), I am currently doing an internship at a Public Relations Agency in NYC and having a lot of fun learning and working with the team there. I’m also dabbling with the idea of going to Grad School and getting my Masters in the near future. -Perhaps the best followup question would be... HOW DO YOU BALANCE ALL THAT WITH MODELING? I was always so inspired by you finishing school while balancing your busy modeling career... definitely a girlboss!
3) Part of what’s so great about being a model is having a following on social media. What are some important messages you try to pass on to your followers?
I don’t Facetune my photos (Ok I did once because there was a huge pimple on my chin, but that was the only time!). I think it’s important for girls to not feel the need to photoshop themselves. Women this day and age are constantly comparing themselves to these altered images on social media. You should feel confident to post you as you, because you are beautiful just the way you are! It’s really empowering to let go of how you think others will view you. -I couldn't agree more. Definitely guilty as charged for blotting away the occasional pimple or two (or three or four...) but I find I feel happiest and most proud (and get the most positive feedback) when I post photos that showcase the real me, sans editing. Modeling enough edits the way we look that I feel for social media it's a privilege we're able to showcase the real us, and I think more and more people are beginning to appreciate that!
4) You’re flying to a new city for a couple days of work. It’s a short trip- what are you packing?
Gym clothes, healthy snacks (peanut butter packets, mixed nuts, protein powder, freeze dried edamame), My current book I’m reading, my Sudoku book (yes I have a Sudoku book…), toiletries (moisturizer: Weleda skin food, face serum: Trilogy Rosehip oil, a Sephora sheet mask, eye cream, toothbrush & paste, makeup remover: Bioderma), and two outfits for work/play. I like to keep my travel necessities light, but I never go light on snacks. You never know what kind of food they will have on set, and I like to be prepared with healthy options. -Haha, it must be a model thing! Sometimes my bag has more snacks/food in it then they do clothes.
5) The fashion industry is quite wasteful, yet some companies and brands are trying to make a difference. Whether it’s a clean beauty brand or an ethical/sustainable company, do you have any favorites that stick out?
I am very into skincare, and I am obsessed with this black clay facial soap bar by Osmia Organics. It’s super cheap, and really draws out any of your skins impurities. I use it everyday, it helps keep my skin clear in all the hustle and bustle of the NYC streets!
6) What are some of your go-to self-care rituals?
I am very big on self care. I always bring a moisturizing sheet mask on the plane (I know I look absolutely insane, but I don’t mind looking crazy for 8 minutes for hydrated skin!), I am also a big fan of nightly retinol serum (I use Peter Roth) and always always always wearing eye cream. And I take my vitamins. I actually have a whole cabinet dedicated to them in my house! Some of my daily’s include: B-Complex, Spirulina, Oregano Oil, Turmeric, Folic Acid, Biotin, Flaxseed Oil, Omega 3, Magnesium, & Activated Charcoal.