Zita Vass

Model, film and television actress, social media sensation and GUESS brand ambassador. Yes, this MAXIM girl does it all…

- Santi Pintado

Tell us about yourself, Miss Zita Vass.

My mother is a beauty queen and my father an aerospace engineer. I’ve been a model since I was 10 and graduated high school at 16 — I’m pretty smart, but not rocket-science smart. My friends say I’m playful, sensitive and kind and I love surfing, margaritas, and thrift shopping.

How did this MAXIM shoot go for you?

This was shot by legendary photographer Josh Ryan who was the first photographer to shoot me for GUESS. Since I had worked with Josh before I felt very excited knowing it would turn out great. Oh, and we had the best tacos for lunch.

Tacos are always important on a photo shoot. So, how did you get your start in modelling?

Well, I was in my hometown of San Diego, shovelling down a Double Double from In-N-Out Burger on New Year’s Eve, when a modelling scout approached me. I ran back home to tell my mum who was convinced it was a scam.

What is the best and worst thing about being a model?

Best part is I have the privilege to travel the world and meet some amazing people. The worst is the dietary restrictions. Sadly, the industry isn’t kind to in-between size models, aside from GUESS, which is the company that changed my life, and Sports Illustrated — which is the dream.

If you weren’t modelling, what would you be doing?

Five years ago I would have said rock star, but now it would be travelling the world researching beauty and health remedies to undo all the damage of my rock star days, which I would later apply to my future detox/beauty spa.

What is your best asset and why?

My long legs and playful spirit.

What do you do to relax?