Update with Jax Native Whitney Thompson

Winner of America's Next Top Model (Cycle 10) Whitney Thompson explains her upbringing, personal activism for healthy body image, and steps for Jacksonville to attract young, creative, individuals.

Photo Credit: Whitney Thompson

Recently, I had the pleasure to interview fashion model, entrepreneur, and America’s Next Top Model winner Whitney Thompson.  The Atlantic Beach native describes herself as a family oriented “beach baby” at heart. She enjoys wearing Reef flip-flops, and sundresses.’

She confided that she gathers inspiration from 1950’s pin-up outfits.  

Gerald Joseph:

 “In what ways can Jacksonville create an environment to become an merging fashion hot-spot like Austin, Texas?”

Whitney:

“Jacksonville is such a big city and I think that’s a blessing because there’s something for everyone. The area most similar to Austin would be downtown and 5 points. The people are more fashion forward and open-minded. It’s great to catch a concert at Jack Rabbits and late night grub at Sweet Lou’s food truck but it is also nice to have areas all over town for people who don’t want to keep Jacksonville weird.”


Photo Credit: Whitney Thompson

As a model with a small waist and large bust Whitney has the perfect frame for fitted tops and pencil skirts. She thoroughly advocates healthier body types within the fashion industry and “real-world.”

In fact she sees the fashion industry heading towards: “A healthier industry and nothing makes me happier. When Tyra Banks modeled for Calvin Klein she was a size 6, now size 6 is considered plus size. However, recently there have been many changes all over the world with countries placing bans on unhealthy models, requiring healthy BMI’s and cutting down on unrealistic airbrushing.”


Whitney looking glam wearing high fashion labels.
Photo Credit: Whitney Thompson

Whitney has a candle and jewelry line Supermodel, and eventually hopes to release an upcoming Supermodel television series. Whether she’s flying around the globe or spending time in Los Angeles or New York. Whitney always cherishes her slower-paced down-to-earth hometown.

And this reporter has learned to cherish this very sweet, beaches girl.




Gerald Joseph