IN CONVERSATION WITH AMELIA GRAY

words by MARIA MOTA

Daughter of Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin, Amelia made her runway debut in 2017, walking in shows for Dennis Baso, Dolce and Gabanna and The Blonds. Amelia has been featured in ads for Rick Owens, Birkenstock, Banana Republic, Steuwart Weitzman, Savage x Fenty and Levis.

Being involved in the fashion industry, how did your personal style develop during the years and how would you describe your current style?

I think that being involved in fashion has given me more comfort and the opportunity to enhance and grow my personal style, though I think I’ve always had the same style. I’ve always been the girl in sneakers. I wore converse to prom… I’ve always gravitated towards the mens section and loved to take that and put my own twist on things. I think being in this industry has heightened the importance of expressing myself through fashion. It has opened my eyes to this beautiful creative outlet of style. It sounds like such a minuscule thing… what we put on our bodies, but truly the creative outlet that it is for me is almost like a painter and a paintbrush.

You have been seen walking for Dolce and Gabanna, Dennis Baso and more and worked with big names such as Rick Owens, Savage x Fenty, Versace, etc. What is the most exciting thing while working with these major brands?

No matter what the brand may be, every brand has a different story that they tell through their clothes. I think that working for different brands has allowed me to appreciate all different styles, and the creativity that goes behind each brand. It’s so beautiful to work closely with designers whose passion truly shines through. I feel honored every time I get the opportunity to be involved in telling a brands story. 

Who or what are your major influences in your personal life and career?

My mom and my grandmother are the biggest influences on my life. They taught me how to follow my dreams… that anything is possible if enough work is put into something. My mom always taught me to be myself. To embrace me, never to conform. That has been the driving factor in my life and my career. 

You have expressed a close and dear relationship with your mom. Which qualities of hers do you see in yourself?

Her kindness and her work ethic. Now that I am an adult, I appreciate the work ethic that she instilled in me. It’s special. She is so inspiring. 

How did growing up watching both your parents build such successful careers impact your own dreams?

Growing up, I was lucky enough to see rejection and dreams coming true constantly. I grew up in a household where anything was possible. The sky has always been the limit. I feel so lucky to have been raised that way. 

Many struggle when it comes to mental stability and health. As someone who has experienced that feeling, what message do you want to spread to others dealing with their own body image issues and challenges?

I’m lucky enough to say that I no longer struggle with these things as often as I used to. I think that it all goes back to being unapologetically yourself… It may sound cliche, but once I embraced myself – without caring what others thought, it became easier for me to heal. My Dad always told me growing up, “what other people think of you is none of your business.” It took me until about now to fully grasp and apply that concept to my life, but once I did, I realized how important it truly is. 

Aligned with our latest issue themed Balance, can you tell us how do you maintain balance in your life?

I think I’m still figuring this one out… I love working. I thrive when I work. I am the most authentic version of myself when I am behind a camera. I can’t explain it. The energy flows differently. Right now I am at a place where balance isn’t what I’m searching for.. but Ill let you know! Ha

You are originally for LA and currently living in NY, how was that change for you?

The change was everything for me. It can be hard moving cities. I wasn’t ready the first time that I had originally tried. I was 18. Now, being 21, living in New York… I can’t imagine moving back to LA. New York has changed me. It has given me the inspiration I didn’t know I needed. It has opened my eyes to the importance creativity has on my life. I have gained a completely different sense of self and self-confidence. I owe everything to New York. 

Do you ever feel like you are losing a part of your youth being on the public eye and working in this industry from such a young age?

I think that this is a very complicated question. I say that because I don’t know any different life. I grew up differently since day 1. There were tough days in high school when I felt I couldn’t fully relate to my friends. Or, my friends couldn’t fully relate to me. But, at the end of the day… It was all worth it. I wouldn’t change it for the world. 

What are your go-to plans when you have free time?

I love me some pilates… I’ve gotten pretty spiritual this past year, so I read and write a lot. I like to stay as grounded and conscious as possible. I meditate, and I prioritize my alone time a lot. I also love to constantly get inspired. I see a lot of art on my free time, or create… I’m always really creating, whether for work or just for fun. 

What are your aspirations as a young model? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 

I like to tell people that I want to be a supermodel, and I want to prove to myself that I can be that. 

What can you tell us about new projects coming up?

You’ll have to wait and see!!!!!