Runway Exclusive Interview With CariDee

America’s Next Top Model Winner, Host of Pretty Wicked, and Runway Magazine Spotlight Feature

Bold, witty, and completely unforgettable, CariDee English became one of reality television’s most recognizable breakout stars after winning America’s Next Top Model. From high-fashion shoots to television hosting and advocacy work, CariDee built a career that extends far beyond the runway. In this exclusive interview with Runway Magazine, she talks fashion, music, career ambitions, and the moments that shaped her journey.

So, what are you working on right now?

I’m modeling, hosting Pretty Wicked on Oxygen, and working actively as a global ambassador for psoriasis awareness. I also spend a lot of time volunteering with charities that support abused and abandoned animals. Beyond that, I’m doing fashion shows and taking the first steps toward launching my own sunglasses line.

What is your favorite thing in your closet?

My closet is basically dedicated to shoes. But my favorite piece is definitely my black leather Dolce jacket. I’m honestly so bummed it’s getting too warm to wear it. I’ve joked about traveling to Antarctica just so I could keep wearing it because I love it that much.

Who is your favorite designer?

Michele Bohbot is a good friend of mine, and of course I love Chanel because it’s timeless and always classic. I’m also obsessed with vintage fashion.

Who are your influences?

The streets of New York City inspire me constantly. I also admire Tyra Banks tremendously. And honestly, single parents inspire me because they’re doing one of the hardest jobs in the world every single day.

Where did you learn to model?

Mostly through bathroom mirrors and by playing dress-up in my mother’s old clothes. That was basically my first runway.

What do you do for fun?

I love listening to music. Honestly, my career is more fun than any other job I could imagine. I love the beach, hanging out with my closest friends — who are mostly guys — and playing music. I own two guitars and I also play the drums.

What has been your most memorable experience in show business?

Getting selected as one of the Top 13 contestants in the America’s Next Top Model house changed everything for me. Winning the competition was surreal. I also loved appearing on Live with Regis and Kelly and making Regis Philbin blush. Another unforgettable moment was going on Mike and Juliet and joking that I wished Cindy Crawford would sexually harass me.

What can you tell Runway that the rest of the world doesn’t know?

Sometimes, in the middle of my sleep, I still suck my thumb.

What are your plans for the future?

Mogul. Mother. Money.

What is your favorite movie and why?

Anything Disney. It takes me back to a time when life felt innocent and the biggest worry was deciding who I was going to play with that day.

What fashion trend are you loving right now?

Old band T-shirts are completely my thing right now.

Where is your favorite place on Earth?

My mom’s and dad’s arms.

What’s the earliest call time you’ve ever had?

3 a.m. for hair and makeup before a sunrise shoot in Hawaii.

Are you a day person or a night person?

Definitely night.

What advice would you give aspiring talent?

You’re going to hear a thousand “no’s” before you hear a “yes.” But the moment you finally hear that yes, all those no’s disappear from your memory.

What’s next for you?

Pretty Wicked is still airing, and I’m getting ready to walk in New York Fashion Week again. This will be my third year participating, and I’m incredibly excited about it.