The Graduates
Hiandra Martinez
At first meeting, Hiandra Martinez comes off as sheepishly shy but a crack of her mischievous smile reveals a chip in that analysis. Peel back the layers and a more carefree demeanor unveils itself displaying a thrillseeker that keeps friends and family close. Since her exclusive debut for Anthony Vaccarello’s first show for Saint Laurent two years ago, the Dominican star has been traveling the world while stacking up a portfolio of luxury clients like Chanel, Fendi, Tom Ford, and Moschino. Her presence stands as a testament to the rise of the Dominican Republic, joining a steadily growing list of top talent that is currently dominating the industry, appearances unchanged with fierce walks to boot. Guess that’s why she keeps checking off milestones – Meisel muse, Vogue cover, first Dominican to do a Saint Laurent campaign? Check, check and check.
Visit her Models.com page and click or tap the heart icon to favorite Hiandra and keep track of her work.
Photography by Sebastian Kim for Models.com
Styling Andrew Mukamal
Hair Hiro + Mari
Makeup Kristi Matamoros
Manicure Sarah Nguyen
Editor Stephan Moskovic
Text & interview by Irene Ojo-Felix
Top image: Jacket and crop top – Alexander Wang
The Graduates, since its conception in 2013, has become a Models.com mainstay featuring the foremost models of the moment. More specifically, when a Hot Lister moves up in rank to Top 50 through their own accomplishments it’s deserving of recognition, each a worthy addition to this ongoing series.
I am from the Dominican Republic. I was born in the south of the country in an area called Peralta, but I spent a few years in Spain when I was young.
How did you first get into modeling?
I entered the world of modeling when my mother agent (Ossygeno Models) held a contest in the Dominican Republic.
Were you nervous for your first runway season? Describe it.
In my first season, everything moved very fast. I was rushing around the world and my nerves were running really high as this was all so new to me. I didn’t really understand English at that time so when I would go to meet the casting directors, my legs would shake and I would just try to focus on understanding the process.
Without a doubt, the shoot that made my career take off was the Saint Laurent campaign where I got to wear my braids in.
What do you miss most about home when you’re flying around the world?
I definitely miss my family the most. Just being able to get up and see them, eat together, or have a simple conversation while we have a coffee.
What has been a few of your accomplishments that you are most proud of?
I would love to be a psychologist in the future or be a great businesswoman and start my own brand of skin care.
She’s gorgeous, and she looks like Alice keys