Edgy. Taboo. Risqué. Daring.
These are some of the words that would be used when describing tattooed, inked, pierced or “alternative” models.
In an industry that values a certain look for various brands, no other artistic and creative realm has changed and evolved as much as modeling.
By itself, modeling has grown from the petite and hourglass-like looks of yesterday to more curvier and full-figured plus-sized models of today. However, for some strange reason, inked and alternative models are not gaining that same type of acceptance.
In what seems to be a new sub-culture within the modeling world alongside boudoir, inked and alternative models are beginning to become more mainstream.
Perhaps there is just a forbidden and socially-unacceptable notion of a woman’s body being “pure” and “clean’ of ink and markings of any kind, but there is no denying the raw sexiness of a inked and pierced woman.
Look no further than social media platforms such as Instagram and under the hashtag of #InkedModels and you will see sexy women such as Rainna Nguyen, Alesandra and LeCherry Spinelli
While not as well-known as the models above, Atlanta-born fashion and alternative model Nikki Marie is quietly blazing her own path.
While she has not modeled for any brands yet, the self-professed metal-head and die-hard fan of her hometown Atlanta Falcons has been featured on notable music scene websites such as Rock Confidental.
Below is my Q and A with the 5’5 dark-haired Southern belle with curves to kill, easy on the eyes is sassy, opinionated and has no filter when it comes to her love of metal and her hometown Falcons and their chances of going to Super Bowl LI
Name: Nikki Marie
Age: 29
Height: 5’5
Birthplace: Atlanta, GA
Residence: Kingsport, TN
Measurements: 36-27-34
Robert D. Cobb: What kind of model do you consider yourself?
Nikki Marie: “Fashion and Alternative”
Robert D. Cobb: What brands have you modeled for?
Nikki Marie: “Which one do you enjoy modeling for the most? I haven’t modeled for any brands yet, I’ve been at this for a year but I’ve had a few features for sites involved in the music scene”
Robert D. Cobb: Where has been your favorite place to shoot?
Nikki Marie: “My most favorite place to shoot is off location, outdoors going on adventures finding off the wall places and never before seen spots.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is the most exciting aspect of modeling?
Nikki Marie: “I would have to say it’s very freeing and empowering, I’ve also met some amazing people in the industry and created some awesome friendships.”
Robert D. Cobb: With winter here and spring right around the corner, what fashion and style tips and trends do you have for looking good when the temperature drops?
Nikki Marie: “Try to shoot in studio as much as possible! Lol no just kidding. Put outfits together that layer uniquely, with eccentric coats you can always wear something sexy under that way you can peel the layers off for a moment , then get warm again. Also pocket and hand warmers those are a must.”
Robert D. Cobb: Within the industry, who is your inspiration?
Nikki Marie: “My inspiration have to be the older alternative models who have become known for who they are because of the creative style and unique way of presenting themselves.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is your secret to staying in shape?
Nikki Marie: “Never deprive yourself, if you want something have it in moderation. If you force yourself to do or not do things it’s almost guaranteed you’ll relapse back to your old ways. keep yourself happy and get plenty of rest and treat yourself.
Always remember you’re beautiful, there is no “right” body type just an improvement of yourself.”
Robert D. Cobb: Outside of modeling, what are your hobbies?
Nikki Marie: “Music and working at my “civilian” job, my life pretty much is modeling, any chance I may get I also love concerts. I’m just so good at my modeling hobby, who needs more”
Robert D. Cobb: What kind of music do you like and are involved in?
Nikki Marie: “I’m a huge music fan, post and NU Metal. Yay awesome!”
Robert D. Cobb: So, you’re a metal head, huh?
Nikki Marie: “LOL, yes!”
Robert D. Cobb: What are some of your favorite bands, singers, etc?
Nikki Marie: “Parkway Drive, In This Moment and Killswitch Engage”
Robert D. Cobb: Nice groups, I like Avenged Sevenfold and Disturbed myself!
Nikki Marie: “Those are good ones! I’ve seen Avenged (Sevenfold) live four times, but I don’t like them so much these days as they went mainstream. Disturbed is AMAZING live too. They put on a great show!”
Sports question: Who are your favorite teams and clubs?
Nikki Marie: “Atlanta Falcons and Georgia Bulldogs, well because home is where my heart is. Rise Up!”
Robert D. Cobb: With your beloved Atlanta Falcons sixty minutes from Super Bowl LI is Matty Ice (Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan) a legit NFL MVP candidate?
Nikki Marie: “Yes, he is a very valuable player, he set an NFL record in one game and threw to 13 different receivers in one game”
Robert D. Cobb: How do you like Atlanta’s chances of going to Super Bowl LI?
Nikki Marie: “I feel their it’s a great chance, great special teams, great defense, great offense, great quarterback!”
Robert D. Cobb: Who is your favorite player?
Nikki Marie: “My favorite player is (Atlanta Falcons wide receiver) Julio Jones, top receiver in the NFL!”
Robert D. Cobb: You plan on going to a game at that swanky new Mercedes Benz Stadium next year?
Nikki Marie: “I’d love to if I visit Atlanta during the season.”
Robert D. Cobb: As a Browns fan, you’re welcome for WR Taylor Gabriel, what are your thoughts on him and what he brings to the Falcons?
Nikki Marie: “He’s been hurt, so I don’t feel he will have any impact due to his injuries… he is just as good as (Atlanta Falcons WR) Julio Jones, but I’m not sure what he’ll bring forth due to his injuries”
Robert D. Cobb: What are your favorite cities to travel to?
Nikki Marie: “Asheville, NC, Knoxville, TN, and Atlanta”
Robert D. Cobb: What advice would you give to women aspiring to get into modeling?
Nikki Marie: “To love yourself no matter what size, look, or color you are. Find a genre that you’re most interested in and perfect it. Don’t be a flake!
If you’re known for being reliable it will get you really far!
And never compare yourself to anyone, everyone is different, and on different levels of success, be patient you will get there! Xoxo”
Special thanks to Nikki Marie for her time and assistance during the Q and A interview process. All images are the property of their owners and are used with permission. Follow Nikki Marie on Facebook here and on Instagram @captured_dynamism