Mode Around the Globe: Nadia Mejia
Nadia Mejia
@nadia_mejia
Photographed by SAM SPENCE
Location: www.thehouseofaia.com
@thehouseofaia
What’s the first thing you do each morning?
I call this part of my morning “the power hour,” where I do not touch my phone. I make myself a coffee, read my daily devotional, gua sha my face, and prepare for the day ahead!
What’s a song that’s currently on repeat in your playlist?
Primera Cita by Carin Leon. I am a hopeless romantic! He’s the Latino Chris Stapleton. Listen to it—you won’t be disappointed.
If you could swap lives with someone for a day, who would it be?
Definitely Dua Lipa! As an aspiring artist, she’s such a role model to me in her work ethic, fashion, and ability to connect with her audience. I’d love to live a day in her life to see what it takes to be at the top!
What’s a hobby or interest you have that might surprise people?
I’m a really good cook! Before I got scouted to be a model, I was signed up to go to culinary school. Although my career took a turn, I still practice my love for cooking five times a week at home. My husband eats really well.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
Everyone dressing more elegantly and sophisticatedly for everyday life.
If you could have dinner with three people, living or historical, who would they be?
Jesus, because well, He’s Jesus, my Nan who passed a few years ago, and the president of Ecuador to figure out how to bring peace to my beloved country!
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I traveled to the Amazon in Ecuador and visited all of the small communities, helping them rebuild schools, homes, and purify water. It was an incredible experience that I hope to do again.
What’s a fashion trend you’re loving right now?
Micro shorts!!!!!
How do you typically spend a lazy Sunday?
On Sundays, I have to go to the farmers market and stock up for the week. But after that, I love to lay back, make a killer snack plate, and binge-watch Grey’s Anatomy or The Great British Baking Show.
What’s one destination on your travel bucket list?
Switzerland!
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Pickles and dried mango. I crave them every second of the day!
What’s the most memorable compliment you’ve ever received?
“Because of you, I didn’t skip lunch today.” I advocate for the recovery of eating disorders based on my own personal journey with anorexia, and I’ll never forget speaking at a school. A young girl came up to me afterward and said those words. It’s the best compliment I could ever receive.
What’s the best book you’ve read recently?
I was late to the game, but It Ends with Us was phenomenal!
If you could learn a new skill instantly, what would it be?
Playing the guitar!
What’s the one item you always carry in your bag?
I will never not have my lip combo. If I have no face makeup on, I will be wearing a lip no matter what! Haha. It’s Anywhere Caffeine by Makeup Forever, Abu Dhabi by NYX, and the Summer Fridays Hot Chocolate Gloss.
What’s a quality you admire most in others?
The ability to listen with compassion and understanding. My husband taught me, “We have two ears, one mouth—listen twice as much as you speak.” It’s so powerful to be a great listener, so I always look for that in people.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing now, what would your dream job be?
Head chef at a Michelin-star restaurant! One day I will own a restaurant—mark my words!
What’s one goal you’ve set for yourself in the new year?
Competing for Miss Universe Ecuador one more time. I will never give up on my dreams and believe that God’s timing is everything. I pray 2025 is my year for the crown.
What was your favorite part of Modeliste’s Palmaïa The House of AïA wellness retreat getaway?
Connecting with strong, powerful, and intelligent women in an industry that is tough to make friends. I’m so grateful for the girls on this trip and cannot wait to reunite on another Modeliste trip in the future.
