T
he Emerald Coast is known for it’s crystal
clear waters and sugar white sand beaches,
but did you know it’s also where a super
model grew up? Robert “Bobby” Kressin
grew up in a military family, constantly moving before
they decided to call the Emerald Coast home. “We sunk
our roots deep in the sand and quickly became a part
of the community,” said Bobby. “We always lived on
or near a beach but this place was special. The bubble
that sealed the area was filled with charm, impeccable
beaches, and people that are kind and genuine.” Right
after graduating from Niceville High School, Bobby
was extended the opportunity to work at Manhattan’s
most prestigious photography studio and gallery. Not
knowing a soul in New York City and never having
visited, Bobby made the bold move and began the
grueling climb in the art scene. While working, many
photographers asked him to model and Bobby’s answer
was always, no way! “I didn’t see myself as a model,
until one day I was given the prospect to model in
Milano, Italy,” said Bobby. “Needless to say, I took
the offer, not realizing the gate that I had just opened
and the path that I had cleared for me upon saying,
‘Yea, sure’.” Part of
being a model is having
a personal style, and
Bobby says his is on the
border of classic and
not trying; “I pretty
much throw clothes on
and hope for the best.
Luckily I own a bunch of
clothes from the brands I
work with and they keep
me looking fresh. Know
who you are and own it.”
He’s constantly changing
up his look by cutting
off his hair, growing
massive beards, and then
shaving it all off again.
Bobby advises new
models to not take
themselves too seriously
and not get frustrated
when you don’t book
every job. A
month after
arriving in
Milan he had
not booked a
job. Just when
he was giving
up hope, Bobby
decided to crash
a casting for
the legendary Prada. Taking a leap of faith paid off…
he booked the job and has been working on and off with
the fashion house ever since. The door was swung open
wide for Bobby and his career as a model took off. His
favorite part about being a model is the ability to live
all around the world. He doesn’t just travel; he becomes
fully emerged in a city for months at a time. “I learn
languages, develop a taste for my favorite restaurants,
and gain some really remarkable relationships with
people. I guess you can say I’m like a cat. I have many
lives, mine are just all over the place, and I love it!”
described Bobby. His favorite part about being a model
is also the hardest part; traveling takes him away from
the family he loves. His parents and two of his sisters
still live in Niceville and he adores coming back to visit
whenever the opportunity arises.
Becoming a successful model doesn’t happen without
perseverance. Bobby offers the following sage advice
to those looking to pursue this passion, “The fashion
industry prides itself for diversity and uniqueness.
Don’t try to be something you are not. Everyone is
unique whether it is because of his or her style, looks,
or personality. Don’t try to be like the other models.
Lastly, be more than a model. Be educated. Be creative.
Be kind. Discover many hobbies and have a plan for
your future.”
story by
Courtney Murray
| photos by
Xxxx
Fashion & Style Profile Robert “Bobby” Kressin
The Journey from Sandy Shores
to the Runway
photo by
Getty Images
photo by
Manuel Scrima
photo by
Kamera Addikt
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