Up Close with Olga Tavarez of REMODELED
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She is the cool cloth for his hot temper, the keen eye that sharpens his big-picture vision, and the Vice President of his global, multi-national network of modeling & talent agencies – most importantly, she is Paul Fisher’s support system and co-star on the CW’s new docu-series show Remodeled, premiering January 17th. But it is her poise, beauty and laser sharp eye for what is hot in the modeling industry that makes Olga Tavarez one of the most sought-after and admired names in the modeling industry.
Olga is renowned not just for her innate talent and ability to spot a potential star (and her gift to help make that model into a star), but also for her personality. She is no-nonsense and direct, but also by all accounts, one of the kindest people in the industry. Olga’s contacts are at the highest level of the modeling industry; there isn’t an editor in the business that isn’t on her speed dial.
How did you get started working in the fashion/modeling industry?
I was sort of around it since I was a baby, because my mom was a pattern-maker for major designers in NYC. I met a lot of industry people as a teenager, going to fashion shows with my mom, and that eventually led me to a job with DNA Models. I've been an agent ever since.
Have you ever considered doing anything else?
Yes - I've always wanted to be a filmmaker. I actually went to film school. I still would love to do it as a hobby if I ever have the time!
What was your position at V Magazine?
Entertainment Contributing Editor.
What convinced you to leave your job and New York in order to join Paul Fisher at The Network Talent?
I was working at my own company by that time, doing entertainment editing and casting, and when I met with Paul, I loved the idea of doing something big and completely new. Helping agencies and creating wellness for models was The Network’s main objective; it offered this whole positive spin and the opportunity to be a part of something much bigger than myself.
This was the main reason I wanted to be a part of The Network. But also, I had always wanted to experience living in California. So, this was a perfect way to do finally do both.
How did you feel when you first found out you would be featured on the REMODELED television show?
I was horrified, and didn't want to do it at first. But I told myself it was a great opportunity. Now, I'm glad I faced my fear of being in front of the camera. I saw how much fun it actually can be. It was hard work, too - but totally worth it.
You see hundreds of new models each month, and only a select one or two (if that) who will ultimately be chosen as a New Face. What advice do you have for aspiring models?
I tell them to be realistic, because in this business you must have a thick skin in order to go through it. If you're not the correct height or measurements, then don't take it personally and try to just be real with yourself about how far you can go. But if you do have the right measurements and height, all it takes is one person to believe in you, whether it's an agent who never gives up or a photographer.
Sometimes you just need to wait and see. It's not an exact science, so you should be grateful if you succeed, and take the rejection with a grain a salt; let it roll off.
Who are your fashion icons?
Mia Farrow, Kate Moss, David Bowie, Ali McGraw, Patti Smith, Faye Dunaway in Network and in Bonnie and Clyde. I also loved Ellen Burstyn in the Exorcist.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Watching movies and relaxing, either on the beach or at home. I'm very chill. I love to dine out as well.
Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully, with a family and still working, doing the things I love. Being inspired and never bored.
Olga is renowned not just for her innate talent and ability to spot a potential star (and her gift to help make that model into a star), but also for her personality. She is no-nonsense and direct, but also by all accounts, one of the kindest people in the industry. Olga’s contacts are at the highest level of the modeling industry; there isn’t an editor in the business that isn’t on her speed dial.
How did you get started working in the fashion/modeling industry?
I was sort of around it since I was a baby, because my mom was a pattern-maker for major designers in NYC. I met a lot of industry people as a teenager, going to fashion shows with my mom, and that eventually led me to a job with DNA Models. I've been an agent ever since.
Have you ever considered doing anything else?
Yes - I've always wanted to be a filmmaker. I actually went to film school. I still would love to do it as a hobby if I ever have the time!
What was your position at V Magazine?
Entertainment Contributing Editor.
What convinced you to leave your job and New York in order to join Paul Fisher at The Network Talent?
I was working at my own company by that time, doing entertainment editing and casting, and when I met with Paul, I loved the idea of doing something big and completely new. Helping agencies and creating wellness for models was The Network’s main objective; it offered this whole positive spin and the opportunity to be a part of something much bigger than myself.
This was the main reason I wanted to be a part of The Network. But also, I had always wanted to experience living in California. So, this was a perfect way to do finally do both.
How did you feel when you first found out you would be featured on the REMODELED television show?
I was horrified, and didn't want to do it at first. But I told myself it was a great opportunity. Now, I'm glad I faced my fear of being in front of the camera. I saw how much fun it actually can be. It was hard work, too - but totally worth it.
You see hundreds of new models each month, and only a select one or two (if that) who will ultimately be chosen as a New Face. What advice do you have for aspiring models?
I tell them to be realistic, because in this business you must have a thick skin in order to go through it. If you're not the correct height or measurements, then don't take it personally and try to just be real with yourself about how far you can go. But if you do have the right measurements and height, all it takes is one person to believe in you, whether it's an agent who never gives up or a photographer.
Sometimes you just need to wait and see. It's not an exact science, so you should be grateful if you succeed, and take the rejection with a grain a salt; let it roll off.
Who are your fashion icons?
Mia Farrow, Kate Moss, David Bowie, Ali McGraw, Patti Smith, Faye Dunaway in Network and in Bonnie and Clyde. I also loved Ellen Burstyn in the Exorcist.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Watching movies and relaxing, either on the beach or at home. I'm very chill. I love to dine out as well.
Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully, with a family and still working, doing the things I love. Being inspired and never bored.
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