Model Aleece Wilson Walked for Rihanna, Marc Jacobs, and Kanye West In Her First Major Season

The 22-year-old Aleece Wilson hit the ground—er, runway—running this February for her first major fashion week since being signed to Elite Toronto in late 2013. Originally from Ontario, she knew she had to find a way to get to the province’s capital in order to be discovered, so she booked a one-way train ticket at the age of 18, with $20 in her pocket. She was signed the same day. One look at the red-haired, freckled beauty, of course, and you’ll understand why.

Wilson’s first major show could not have been more appropriate given her current base in New York. She walked for two of the city’s biggest names: Alexander Wang, who showed in Harlem, and Marc Jacobs, who took his runway literally to the streets. Plus, she walked for the music industry’s two biggest fashion players: Kanye West and his Yeezy Season 5 show, followed by Rihanna’s Fenty x Puma extravaganza in Paris, France.

Not bad for a first timer.

When she isn’t modeling and running around to castings, Wilson is catching up on Riverdale and, like Gigi Hadid (who once revealed that she wanted to study criminal psychology), is an aspiring homicide detective.

What was it like being at New York Fashion Week? You had such an amazing season. What were some of your favorite moments?

Being at New York Fashion Week was absolutely amazing! It was such a huge change compared to me walking in Toronto Fashion Week. My favorite moments would definitely have to be getting on this bus Alexander Wang rented to take us to rehearsal for his show. We had no idea where we were going and it was just so suspenseful for me because I had read an article earlier about possible locations he was going to choose for the show. He ended up picking the location I loved the most, and the architecture was so cool. It tied so perfectly with our looks.

What was the most challenging part about this season and how did you surmount it?

Castings and constantly being on the move! It was kind of overwhelming because everything was go, go, go! But I just made sure I took time to breathe and relax so I wouldn’t get too stressed out .

Did you interact with Rihanna, Kanye West, or Marc Jacobs at all?

I interacted with Marc Jacobs a bit. He’s very sweet and kind! He had thanked me for walking for him and that meant a lot to me, that he didn’t just leave after the show without saying goodbye or anything to the models. He’s super professional and very hands-on. He made it feel like it wasn’t a job, but rather like we were all friends hanging out!

The Fall 2017 piece you wore on the runway that you’d love to steal for real life:

My Fenty x Puma look. I really need that oversized crewneck sweater and the ski mask so I can face the cold Canadian winds!

How would you describe your personal style?

Spontaneous, cool, street.

Beauty and style icons:

Slick Woods. I don’t need to say anything more! Just look at her!

What you’re wearing right this minute:

Thrasher and pieces I found at thrift stores. I’m not too fashionable.

Beauty products you use every single day:

Bioderma water, Rodial Snake Moisturizer, Dior mascara, NYC Expert creamy caramel lipstick, E.L.F. highlighter.

Beauty secret weapon:

Dior Addict Lip Sugar scrub! It exfoliates your lips and gives them a nice natural tint.

Exercise regime:

Run 30 minutes; walk 30 minutes; 20 minutes of cardio.

Hair routine and specific products you use:

Wash with Cream of Nature shampoo and conditioner; blow dry; straighten; add argan oil. I also use Softee Hair Food as well and Africa’s Best herbal oils .

Best advice from the pros:

SAVE YOUR MONEY GIRL.

Hidden talent:

I can pick up stuff with my feet .

TV shows you’re currently watching:

Riverdale!!!

Books you’ve read recently:

L: Change The WorLd, a manga novel.

If you weren’t modeling, what would you be doing?

Going back to school for police foundations.

Dream job?

Homicide detective!

Watch how to take a selfie like a supermodel, below.