interview

Name:
Tess McMillan

Agency:
Muse Management (New York)
Milk Management (London)

Age:
18

Height:
5’10”

Instagram:
@tess_mcmillan

Place of Origin:
Austin, TX

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

Birthsign:
Libra

How discovered:
By a photographer.

What was your first modeling job?
My first big job was for Barney’s department store. It being by first job since moving from Texas, I was a little nervous and the whole thing felt super glamorous to me.

Favorite things:
I absolutely love my dog Gus, and love hanging out with her. Other than Gus, I wouldn’t be able to live without my headphones, my favorite sneakers, or my Movie Pass!

What are you listening to at the moment?
Recently I’ve been listening to Monster by Kanye West on repeat, it’s such a bop. Other than that I loooove anything by Franck Ocean, Lana Del Rey, Kid Cudi, or anything off the Les Mis soundtrack.

Favorite movie, tv show:
My favorite movies of all time are Trainspotting, Arrival, and Good Time. TV-wise, I’m very into re-watching Parks and Rec episodes.

Favorite designer, fragrance or beauty product:
It’s a really close tie between Miu Miu and Celine for my favorite designer, they both always kill it. I love scented oils and my signature fragrance is this oil called “Egyptian Musk” that I always stock up on when I visit Texas because our local grocery store sells it in these adorable little bottles. I keep my beauty routine pretty simple, but I always like to wear a little makeup. One product I just can’t live without is YSL’s Le Teint Touche Éclat foundation, it’s really just amazing.

What were you doing before modeling?
I was a junior in high school in Texas when I was signed with my agency and moved to New York.

What would you be doing if you weren’t modeling?
If I weren’t modeling I would be acting, which is something I’m currently also pursuing on the side!

What’s something uncool that you love anyway?
I’m a prolific tube sock wearer and I love show tunes.

Favorite modeling experience so far?
I had the best time working on the Marc Jacob Shameless campaign. Such a fun experience.

What’s the best thing about your hometown/country?
Some Texas staples that I miss are Tex-Mex and good barbecue. The lack of queso has taken some getting used to. And breakfast tacos!

Which brand would you really love to model for?
I have really admired Petra Collins forever and I will die of happiness when I do get to work with her.

Currently you’re obsessed with/about:
Since moving to New York, I’ve been totally overwhelmed with all the amazing opportunities for acting, which is something I’ve always loved. I’ve really been obsessed with taking advantage of this and diving in.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
My 7th grade English teacher, who I adored, would always say, “You don’t get a gold star for not robbing the bank,” meaning you don’t get points for doing the bare minimum, which I have always thought was so true and so hysterical. It’s something I’ve always carried with me.