Arnelle was photographed exclusively for MODELS.com by Daniel Jaramillo, with styling by Sachiko Earlene Clyde, hair by Ledora Francis & makeup by Maki Ryoke. Thanks to Rachel & Danielle.

interview

Name:
Arnelle Slot (@_arnelle)

Pronouns:
she/her

Agency:
Muse Management (New York)

Age:
28

Height:
5’9″

Place of Origin:
Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Ethnic Origin:
1/2 Dutch, 1/2 Surinamese

Birthsign:
Leo


Did you always want to be a model? Tell us about how you were discovered.
Becoming a model wasn’t something I set out to do, but it happened naturally, and I’ve really enjoyed the journey. Years ago, I was discovered on Instagram by my agent. They invited me over for a conversation and from there the ball started rolling.

Most memorable modeling experience so far?
Walking my first show in Paris for Chanel a few years ago was unforgettable. I could hardly believe I got to be part of such an iconic house. As someone with my body type, being embraced by them felt amazing! It validated something my agents and I have always believed: you don’t have to fit the traditional mold to have a place in this industry. I still hope the fashion world will continue to become more inclusive.

One song you have on repeat, and why?
Right now, it would be “Yes It Is” or “Mutt” by Leon Thomas ft. Freddie Gibbs. But to be honest, the whole album is on repeat. It’s an R&B project I’ve been eagerly anticipating, and it’s so well crafted… It’s easily the R&B album of the year in my eyes.

What other passions do you have aside from modeling?
Outside of modeling, I’m really passionate about music and travel. I love exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and finding inspiration in the world around me. Music is how I navigate the world. It’s like a map for my emotions, memories, and experiences. I literally can’t live without it. I used to DJ and will pick that back up in 2025, which I’m very excited about!

What is something you’ve always wanted to do/try?
I’ve always wanted to do volunteer work in an animal rescue center or national park. As a child, I wanted to become a vet, until I figured out it involved working with needles, which I’m terrified of. So that was off the table… but the urge to help and love for animals has always remained.

What’s one thing people may be surprised to find out about you?
I can be a bit of a hermit, and I’m definitely a geek. I have a lot of interests (history, anime, and design, to name a few) and love diving deep into them. I’ve picked up a lot of random facts along the way, though I wouldn’t call myself an expert in anything. Maybe because people see me as an extrovert, this side of me can surprise them.

What change would you like to see in the world?
I’d like to see more compassion and empathy in the world. It feels like many people today are stuck in their own bubbles, driven by ego and fueled by the environment around them. But if we made an effort to understand and consider others and act accordingly, it could transform the way we connect with one another – and that shift could eventually ripple out into larger changes, even at a policy level.