The Altitude of Attitude: Kailey Joa-Johnson

The Altitude of Attitude: A Conversation with Kailey Joa-Johnson

From New York to Milan, fashion model Kailey Joa-Johnson has had a whirlwind year, walking the world’s most iconic runways and appearing in major projects. Fresh off a hectic international fashion week schedule, she has established herself as a recognizable force with a reputation for professionalism and grace. ShutterSpire Magazine’s Tommy Butler sat down with Kailey to discuss her recent triumphs, future ambitions, and the powerful mindset that fuels her ascent in the demanding world of high fashion.

ShutterSpire Magazine: You've had an incredibly busy year, including a standout performance at New York Fashion Week where I photographed you wearing So Like You Fashions couture. What other big projects were you a part of this year?

Kailey Joa-Johnson: Some other big projects I was a part of this year included filming for an HGTV house-hunting show. I was in the B-roll segments, where people are just enjoying the beach or walking the boardwalk. I was also in the filming of Pharrell William's movie. It hasn't yet aired, but I was so excited to be a part of it and to be on set with Halle Bailey.

ShutterSpire Magazine: That’s amazing. Right after New York Fashion Week, you headed straight to Milan. That must have been a very hectic schedule. How did you manage through that chaos?

Kailey Joa-Johnson: Honestly, I love the chaos. The chaos keeps me motivated and driven. Going from New York Fashion Week straight into Milan Fashion Week—I loved it. I wouldn't change anything about it. I love being busy.

ShutterSpire Magazine: How was Milan?

Kailey Joa-Johnson: Milan was such an unforgettable trip, and I loved every single minute of it. Getting to know the culture of Italy was amazing. The people there are so sweet and welcoming. I worked with the amazing designer Siren Couture. She really takes care of her models; it’s more than a business relationship, she’s like family. Every time I work with her, it's such a pleasure. Her designs are incredible, with beautiful big wings and beautifully crocheted bathing suits with gems. It makes the designs so exotic and unforgettable.

ShutterSpire Magazine: So this was the same designer you walked for in Miami? That work was mind-blowing.

Kailey Joa-Johnson: Yes, I worked with her in Miami. Thank you so much!

ShutterSpire Magazine: What are your favorite styles to wear on the runway?

Kailey Joa-Johnson: I actually don't have a favorite, because each of the styles I've modeled so far—streetwear, more elegant wear with long dresses, or bathing suits—gives me an opportunity to showcase a different side of myself. When I'm modeling streetwear, I’ll walk with more swag and oomph. With the bathing suit designs, like the ones with beautiful carnival wings, it allows me to showcase more of my lively side, smiling and bringing more energy. And with the more elegant long dresses, that allows me to be more graceful with my walk, whether it's moving my arms or my hands a certain way.

I was even going to walk for a designer whose style was more gothic and dark, and I was so excited because I've never modeled anything like it. Unfortunately, I didn't get to, but I can't wait to see what other designs I'm going to be modeling next.

ShutterSpire Magazine: It seems like you have built quite the brand for yourself. People in New York recognized you and know you. They love your attitude and how you carry yourself professionally. What goals do you have for your brand in the year to come?

Kailey Joa-Johnson: My goal is to push myself even harder than I did this year. I'm going to look for more agencies so that I can model for the bigger brands. One of my top goals is, God willing, to become a Victoria’s Secret model and to also model for couture brands like Dior, Prada, Giorgio Armani, and many more.

ShutterSpire Magazine: So what's the strategy? How are you going to break into those top-tier brands?

Kailey Joa-Johnson: I'm going to keep posting my reels and continue growing and exploring different types of modeling. I plan to get advice on different poses and just keep learning new things to push myself. I'll also be getting in contact with certain agencies so I can grow my career further.

ShutterSpire Magazine: They say your attitude determines your altitude, and that's a characteristic I really admire about you professionally. You’re always gracious, you don't posture yourself as better than others, and that combination of talent and poise is why I sought you out with the invitation to shoot this editorial...

Kailey Joa-Johnson: Oh, thank you. The way I see it is that we all start from somewhere. That's why anytime models or photographers come up to me seeking advice, I'm always open to giving it to them, because I was in their same place when I first started. I didn't know much, and I needed somebody to help me. I always want someone to remember me in a positive way.

It doesn't matter how talented or beautiful you are. If you don't have a good attitude or treat people with respect, you won't succeed in this industry, or any industry. People want to work with someone they feel comfortable with.

ShutterSpire Magazine: One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that the real currency in any professional transaction is trust. Having a good attitude establishes that trust and creates a place of safety where art can flow. That’s why our shoot on Broadway was such a success. We made magic happen in a very tight timeframe because you brought all of the good attitude and experience.

Kailey Joa-Johnson: So did you! And you brought all the creative ideas, I loved it.

ShutterSpire Magazine: Pure magic! Given the experiences you've had this year, what is the biggest lesson you've learned?

Kailey Joa-Johnson: The biggest lesson that I have learned is never take no for an answer. Early on, someone told me that they didn't see me as a "New York model." A few months later, I was in New York Fashion Week. That always stayed with me. At the beginning, I did feel down and questioned if I should keep going with my modeling career. I was actually about to quit.

I prayed and asked for a sign whether I should keep going or just leave it. There was this sports-themed editorial shoot I really wanted to do, and for it, I needed a specific black basketball with white lines. The very next day, I went to an Aldi's grocery store, and out of all places, I found that exact basketball. I took it as a sign to keep going. A few months later, I was in New York Fashion Week, and I've just kept working towards it.

ShutterSpire Magazine: I'm baffled that somebody would speak such negativity over your life like that, but I'm incredibly proud of you for not listening to them. The only people who know what you can do are you and God who planted this dream in your heart. You knew what was in you, and you did it anyway in spite of the negativity. So proud of you for listening to that inner voice and believing in yourself.

Kailey Joa-Johnson: Thank you so much. Modeling and staying in this industry is really my passion, so I'm going to keep working towards my goals. That's my plan for 2026 and beyond.

LINKS

Kailey Joa-Johnson @kaileyjoaj on Instagram

So Like You Fashions @solikeyoufashions on Instagram