Models in New York City know that Fashion Week is hotness.. and business. The transition comes easy for drama-eyed fashion and undies model Rafael Valentino, whose path to fame actually began with a career in politics. "My mother was first to suggest that I try modeling." The Washington, D.C. native explained during a conversation at Milk Studios. "The next day, a photographer was at my house taking the first headshots." Rafael posted his first pictures via social media, summoning professional attention amongst talent agents on the East Coast. By June 2011, Valentino was signed to RED Model Management and appeared almost immediately, walking the Spring 2012 runways of Richard Harris, Edwin D'Angelo, Libertine and Love Brigade. Rafael Valentino was also the only model named in Essence.com's feature EYE CANDY: PYT alongside entertainers Drake, Chris Brown and Trey Songz.
Above: Photographed by Cliff Watts (left) and Rafael Valentino modeling a skull-studded varsity jacket at Libertine FW 12/13 on Thursday. Runway photo via Style.com
Below: Quick makeup session and runway finale at LIbertine FW 2012-13 show at Milk Studios, NYC.
At 6'3" and Caribbean descent, Rafael's smoldering looks stood out during his second season on the Libertine runway. His extraordinary features were also photographed as the face of ENYCE's Spring/Summer 2012 ad campaign. In January, Valentino appeared as one of 8 metallic models for skater-inspired clothing Trukfit designed by super rapper Lil Wayne.
Contact: Rafael Valentino.com and via Twitter @ValentinoRafael
