Interviewing model Ayse Top

          Ambassador of Saint Tropez

1.What inspired you to become model and what you love the most about this work ?

I never planned to become a model , it just happened with the start of winning my titel as ms Netherlands universe where I did represent Netherlands during ms universe competition between 88 countries!

I’ve always been fascinated by the power of visual storytelling. Modeling became a way for me to express emotion and identity without saying a word. It started as a creative outlet, but quickly became a platform , one that allows me to represent not just beauty, but also purpose.

What I love most is the transformation , how a simple garment, setting, or gesture can evoke something powerful. And of course, working with passionate creatives from all over the world inspires me every day.

2. Can you tell us about your latest campaign or photoshoot? What was it like working with the team?

My most recent campaign was shot for Boudoir , this pictures will be used for Vogue Magazine and billboards in Puerto Rico, this brand is a luxury ethical fashion brand that blends tradition with modernity a theme close to my heart. The energy on set was magical. The team was diverse, intentional, and incredibly collaborative. It wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about telling a story of heritage, femininity, and resilience. A story about strong women . 

It reminded me how important it is to work with people who align with your values.

3. How do you prepare for a photoshoot or runway show? What’s your routine like?

Preparation is a ritual for me. I start by centering myself mentally and physically. I meditate, drink lots of water, and focus on my breathing. Fitness is important, but so is emotional presence.

I also research the concept of the shoot or the designer’s vision for the runway. Understanding the narrative behind the clothes or campaign allows me to embody the look in a more meaningful way. Modeling isn’t just posing , it’s performing.

4. What advice would you give to young girls who want to start a career in modeling?

Know your worth before anyone else tries to define it for you. This industry can be both beautiful and brutal you must be grounded in who you are. Don’t chase validation; chase growth.

Also, build a strong support system. Learn the business side, too. And always, always protect your energy. Your uniqueness is your power ,never dilute it to fit someone else’s standard.

5. How do you balance your personal life with the demands of being a model?

It’s taken time, but I’ve learned to prioritize peace. I carve out time for solitude, nature, writing the things that nourish my soul. I say “no” more often now, and I don’t feel guilty for it.

Balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about staying in alignment with your values. When I’m grounded in who I am outside of the spotlight, I show up stronger in the spotlight.

6. What do you think is the most challenging part of being a model, and how do you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges is the constant pressure to meet external standards of beauty, success, relevance. It’s easy to lose yourself if you’re not intentional.

I overcome it by staying rooted in purpose. Modeling, for me, is not the goal , it’s the vehicle. I remind myself often: I’m not here just to be seen. I’m here to say something. Whether it’s through my walk, my words, or my presence , I want it to mean something.

7. Can you tell us about a memorable experience you’ve had in your career so far?

One moment that deeply stays with me is being invited as a jury member at an international film festival .Sitting alongside legendary filmmakers and watching stories from every corner of the world — some in languages I didn’t even speak — reminded me how universal storytelling truly is. One short film, made by a first-time director from a small village, moved the entire jury to tears. It reminded me that talent doesn’t ask for permission , it simply speaks. That experience re-energized my own work as an actress and storyteller.

8. How do you stay motivated and inspired in your work?

I stay inspired by staying connected to people, to real stories, and to my own sense of curiosity. I read constantly, I travel, I observe. Even small moments , a stranger’s laugh, a line of poetry, a silent scene in a film can spark something.

Also, I surround myself with people who are grounded and creative. That combination keeps me humble and hungry. And whenever I lose clarity, I return to the question: Why did I begin? The answer always brings me home.

9. What do you think is the most important thing for models to consider when working with clients or brands?

Authenticity and alignment. It’s not just about fitting into a brand’s image ,it’s about asking: Does this align with who I am and what I stand for?

Professionalism is key, of course being punctual, prepared, and respectful but equally important is protecting your personal brand and boundaries. Clients notice when you bring presence, not just beauty.

10. Can you tell us about your favorite project or campaign you’ve worked on, and why it stands out to you?

One of my favorite projects was a campaign for a slow fashion brand that collaborated with artisans from war-affected regions. It was more than just a shoot it was a statement. I spent time with the women behind the embroidery, heard their stories, and carried that emotion into the lens.

That campaign reminded me that fashion, when done with intention, can be a tool for healing and empowerment. It felt personal, powerful, and necessary.

11. How do you think the modeling industry has changed in recent years, and what opportunities or challenges do you see for models today?

The industry has become more inclusive in terms of body types, backgrounds, and narratives. Social media has democratized exposure, which is both a gift and a challenge. On one hand, you can build your own platform. On the other, there’s more pressure than ever to be “always on.”

Models today have the opportunity to be more than faces ,they can be voices, activists, entrepreneurs. But that also means cultivating depth. Beauty may open doors, but substance keeps you in the room.

12. What do you like to do in your free time? Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of modeling?

Absolutely. I write ,it’s my sanctuary. Whether it’s poetry, essays, or scripts, writing helps me process the world. I also love film in all its forms ,I’m constantly watching cinema from different cultures.

And when I’m not working, I find peace in simplicity: long walks, deep conversations, or escaping to nature. Stillness is my secret superpower in a very noisy world.