Teen Vogue Summit Conversations: Alex Consani on Confidence, Agency, and Transforming the Fashion Industry
By Natalie McCarty
At the Teen Vogue Summit, Alex Consani, the cover star of Teen Vogue’s latest issue, captivated the crowd with her infectious energy, confidence, and profound insights into the fashion industry.
A trailblazer in every sense of the word, Consani has become one of the most talked-about figures in fashion, making history at age twelve as the youngest trans model ever signed to an agency.
Now at twenty-one years old, she’s just had the most extraordinary year in her career filled with standout moments—including becoming the face of Maison Margiela’s fragrance campaign and walking for top designers like Gucci, Balenciaga, and Valentino—she recently strutted the runway at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Her journey to this iconic stage, and her rise as a Gen Z trailblazer through her social media and career, is a testament to her determination, self-belief, and unwavering commitment to redefining representation in the fashion world.
Reflecting on her career, Consani opened up about her path to success. “For a long time, I didn’t trust the process,” she shared with Teen Vogue. “I would do one job, then I wouldn’t work for a year. I think I needed that time to really develop myself.”
It’s clear that Consani’s experience has been shaped by the ebbs and flows of the industry. But instead of rushing for constant validation or success, she found solace in the idea of “divine timing,” a belief that things will come to you when they are meant to. “A lot of people are really pushing to do jobs, but I think divine timing is so real in this industry. You have to trust that things will come to you when they’re meant to.”
As the youngest trans model to ever be signed by an agency, Consani has broken barriers and continues to pave the way for others. Her presence at the Teen Vogue Summit was a testament to her belief in both herself and the opportunities that have come her way. “Being the first trans woman nominated for Model of the Year,” she said with quiet pride, “I want to at least put all my effort into that to make sure I’m taking the opportunities that I’m being given.” And with that ethos of intentionality, Consani has created a blueprint for success—one where purpose and passion lead the way.
The fashion industry has often been criticized for its lack of diversity, particularly in regard to trans representation. But Consani’s ascension into the spotlight has been a game-changer, and she’s using her platform to remind the world that trans women belong in fashion just as much as anyone else. Magnetic and approachable, she interacted with the Teen Vogue Summit crowd with authenticity, humor, and grace. It’s clear that Consani’s charm isn’t just skin-deep—her intelligence and insight into the industry make her a powerful voice for change.
Her advice to aspiring models was equally empowering. She urged the audience to remember that they are the talent. “Agencies work for you,” she said, empowering the crowd to recognize their value. “Even though they’re giving the work, it’s you that is the product, and you can choose what to align yourself with, devote your time to, and give yourself to.”
Beyond her role as a fashion icon, Consani’s message is clear: surrounding yourself with people who love and support you is essential to overcoming the hate and challenges that may come your way. “Everything from finding consistency to support to finding confidence to conquering hate is surrounding yourself with people who love you and support you,” she shared.
Consani’s historic rise is a testament to the power of self-belief, perseverance, and knowing when to step into the spotlight. As she continues to redefine what it means to be a model, an icon, and a trans advocate in fashion, one thing is certain: Alex Consani is here to stay, and the world is hers for the taking.
