Buckle up—eight of fashion’s next-gen it-girls are ready to go full-throttle this spring season. Photographed by PETROS and styled by V‘s Senior Fashion Editor Anna Trevelyan, V asked our eight spring muses about their style inspirations, living life in the fast lane, and what plans they have for the months ahead.

TARA RAANI (ACTOR & MODEL)

Location: NYC 

Hometown: Delhi, India 

Occupation: Model, actor, writer 

What was the first spark that inspired you to explore what you do now for your career? Every Christmas, I’d write and direct a play, starring all my cousins in India, and we’d perform for the adults. That made me realize I wanted to write and act for television. As far as fashion, I grew up obsessed with print magazines. I collected and archived all kinds of fashion editorials; I have an enormous collection, and it’s still growing! LONG LIVE PRINT. 

What inspires you most these days?

Parker Posey, Martine Rose, Bob Fosse dancers, 90s postmodernism, my friends. 

If you could only choose one item in your closet, what would you say is your most precious heirloom?

My high school soccer warmup set. 

Growing up, who was your style inspiration?

Rihanna, my mom, Lindsay Lohan’s band in Freaky Friday. 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I spend a lot of time talking to my 80-year-old self. 

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you have chosen for your career path?

I would’ve been a carpenter who makes beautiful furniture for fabulous women.  

Like many creatives in our world, we tend to live life in the fast lane. What are some essentials you need to keep you going throughout the day/week?

Karaoke in my living room, drawing, saying “No”. 

What are some of your summer 2025 plans ahead?

Driving a convertible down the Sicilian coast naked. 

ABÉNY NHIAL (MODEL)

Location: New York City

Hometown: Brisbane, Australia

Occupation: Model

What was the first spark that inspired you to explore what you do now for your career?

Honestly, I kind of stumbled into modeling—it wasn’t something I planned or thought I’d properly pursue. But once I started, I found myself surrounded by the most amazing, creative, and talented people, and that energy was contagious. I remember my first shoot so clearly—it was the moment everything clicked. I was having so much fun, completely in the moment, and I realized how much I genuinely loved what I was doing. It made me want to keep going, to see where this path could take me, and to keep creating with people who inspire me. The path ended up being such a blessing — one I never saw coming, but one I’m incredibly grateful for.

What inspires you most these days?

Creation inspires me. Every day, I’m reminded of how beautiful and divine our existence is. All of creation—life itself—inspires me. There’s so much to explore within ourselves, in others, and in the vast multiverse we’re part of. Witnessing the divinity of life continues to inspire me deeply.

If you could only choose one item in your closet, what would you say is your most precious heirloom?

My jewelry collection!

Growing up, who was your style inspiration and why?

Mmm…Blair Waldorf (*laughs*). She’s so chic, elegant, and iconic. I loved her whole persona—still do, honestly!

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I actually don’t know (*laughs*)

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you have chosen for your career path?

I feel like I’m a free spirit—I love traveling, helping people, and learning from everywhere and everyone. In a way, I feel like I’m already doing that now! As I grow and learn more about myself, I think I’ll naturally discover a career path that fully aligns with me. But for now, I’m pretty content and happy with where I am.

Like many creatives in our world, we tend to live life in the fast lane. What are some things you do to unwind after a hectic period in your life? What are some essentials you need to keep you going throughout the day/week?

I always make time for myself—to journal, pray, gym, and meditate. Those are my essentials. They allow me to slow down, ground myself, and come back to the present so I can really appreciate all my blessings.

What are some of your summer 2025 plans ahead?

I’m planning to travel all month! Where to? I’m not entirely sure yet—probably somewhere in Africa, haha. It’s my favorite place in the world.

JEANNIE SUI WONDERS (FILMMAKER)

Location: New York City 

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan  

Occupation: Filmmaker 

What inspires you most these days?

I’ve been going to the Frederick Wiseman retrospective at Lincoln center. He’s such a light touch filmmaker. There’s very little editorialization and it feels refreshing to be in someone else’s POV without any big, aggressive takes. I love the experience of being invested in different microcosms. Like the politics of a monastery in rural Michigan or the inner workings of a  luxury department store in Dallas.  His films make me feel like the world is big.  

If you could only choose one item in your closet, what would you say is your most precious heirloom?

A bedazzled Fred Segal sweatshirt I’ve had since middle school 

Growing up, who was your style inspiration and why?

My mom always gets dressed in fashionable outfits no matter what she’s doing that day, I’ve never seen her in athleisure. She’d be picking us up from the suburban hockey rink in a full look. Other moms would always ask her if she was going anywhere after. I like that she always cares about what she’s wearing. 

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you have chosen for your career path?

Beach bum 

Like many creatives in our world, we tend to live life in the fast lane. What are some things you do to unwind after a hectic period in your life? What are some essentials you need to keep you going throughout the day/week? 

Baths   

What are some of your summer 2025 plans ahead? 

Surfing 

MEREDITH DUXBURY (BEAUTY & FASHION CREATOR, MODEL,)

Location: New York City

Hometown: Hadlyme, Connecticut 

Occupation: Model and content creator 

What was the first spark that inspired you to explore what you do now for your career?

My love for beauty and fashion came about when I realized it gave me the freedom to express myself. I believe with beauty and fashion you can color outside the lines and there are no rules. I was never one to follow the social norms, and it took some time but I came to realize in my adult life that people enjoy seeing things that didn’t fit the usual norms, which made me feel like I had a community of people that I could share similarities with!

What inspires you most these days?

Archival beauty and fashion looks inspire me the most these days because I loved how experimental designers and makeup artists were. They played around with abstract ideas that we hadn’t been seen before. For example, the Alexander McQueen’s Spring 2001 “Voss” runway show and the makeup at the Christian Dior Fall 2003 couture show. I think for me makeup is about having fun and knowing there are no limits, so the archival looks remind me that in an era of minimalism it’s still fun to experiment and play around with the past. 

If you could only choose one item in your closet, what would you say is your most precious heirloom?

I don’t have any traditional heirlooms in my closet that have been passed down to me, but if I had to choose something I’d want to pass down, it would be my Cartier watch. It’s something I’ve worked hard for, and I love the idea of it carrying meaning and history for my future family 

Growing up, who was your style inspiration and why?

Growing up I never really had a style inspiration, my mood was really what had the most effect on what I wore. I always wore whatever caught my eye at the time. My style would always change, I remember in middle school I asked my parents for patent leather red Dansko clogs for Christmas, and in high school I was really into Timberland boots. Now, some days I love a really feminine timeless classic look with a twist of modernization to it, and other days i’ll love a more tom boy baggy look. I think all my fashion decisions fall under my idea that fashion can be whatever you want it to be and you never have to stick to one style. 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I was a volunteer EMT (emergency medical technician) in my home town in high school which consisted of responding to emergency 911 calls in my town. I have a passion for helping people and work really well in high stress situations so it was a great way to give back to my community as well as following a passion of mine for helping people. 

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you have chosen for your career path?

I would’ve loved to do event planning, I absolutely love a themed party, every year I throw a halloween party and bringing that vision to life gives me so much joy. I also love seeing how much joy it brings other people getting to see their ideas come to life. 

Like many creatives in our world, we tend to live life in the fast lane. What are some things you do to unwind after a hectic period in your life? What are some essentials you need to keep you going throughout the day/week?

Some things I like to do to unwind are cuddling in bed with my two golden retrievers, cooking , and doing my makeup. All of these things I find to be quite simple but very calming. Most of the time just slowing down your physical body will force you mentally to be more present and at ease. 

What are some of your summer 2025 plans ahead?

As of now no set plans but I really want to focus on time with friends and family. I really love traveling so being able to do that with them would be my ideal summer!

LULU WOOD (MODEL)

Location: New York City

Hometown: Perth, Australia

Occupation: Model & Student 

What was the first spark that inspired you to explore what you do now for your career?  

My Mum was (and still is) obsessed with it, and I have vivid memories of watching fashion television with her, totally mesmerized by the runway. It felt like this magical world that was both untouchable and yet calling my name. Then, one day after school in Perth, WA, I got scouted. It all kind of snowballed from there, and here we are!  

What inspires you most these days?  

Honestly, the women around me. There’s something so powerful about watching strong, driven women tackle adversity and still hold onto their spark for life. In an industry that can be relentless, seeing that resilience, that confidence, and that unwavering belief in themselves—it’s contagious.  

If you could only choose one item in your closet, what would you say is your most precious heirloom?  

Oh, that’s impossible! You’re asking me to choose between my children. Can I cheat and just say… ALL my handbags? Each one holds a little memory, a little piece of my journey, and I don’t want to part with them.  

Growing up, who was your style inspiration and why?  

I was late when it came to social media, so instead of scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest for style inspo, I looked up to my mum. She’s always had impeccable taste—effortless yet intentional. She and my aunt even had their own little clothing line before I was born, so fashion wasn’t just something she wore, it was something she created. 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?  

I’m wildly competitive. Like, scary competitive. Whether it’s a card game, sports, or some random party game that no one else is taking seriously, I will give it 110%. I love a challenge, and I hate losing (but I promise, I’m a gracious winner… kind of).  

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you have chosen for your career path?  

Believe it or not, I was actually enrolled in Law after high school. So in some alternate universe, maybe there’s a version of me in a courtroom, making my case.

Like many creatives in our world, we tend to live life in the fast lane. What are some things you do to unwind after a hectic period in your life? What are some essentials you need to keep you going throughout the day/week?  

I always, always have a book on me. There’s something about escaping into a different world for a bit that helps me reset. Beyond that, I’m incredibly lucky to have the best friends and support system—just spending time with them helps me recharge. And nature! It’s harder to come by in big cities, but when I get the chance, nothing grounds me like a good hike, a swim, or even just sitting in a park, soaking it all in.  

What are some of your summer 2025 plans ahead?  

I’m SO excited—my parents are coming over from Australia, and we’re going hiking in Canada! It’s been on the bucket list for ages, and I can’t wait for the adventure.  

YUMI NU (MODEL & MUSICIAN)

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Hometown: Newport Beach, CA

Occupation: Model 

What was the first spark that inspired you to explore what you do now for your career?

I can’t remember my first spark for modeling, but it’s been in my orbit since I was really young and I just remember always being intrigued by it. 

What inspires you most these days?

Feeling healthy, present and happy. I’m in pursuit of a well balanced, grounded life these days. 

If you could only choose one item in your closet, what would you say is your most precious heirloom?

My mom actually just gave me a silver hello kitty necklace charm from the early 2000’s that I’ve been wearing on the daily. It fits me well. I’d say that’s my current favorite. 

Growing up, who was your style inspiration and why?

Growing up I feel like I probably leaned heavily on teen magazines and Tumblr for style inspo—no one in particular. 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I’m obsessed with de-cluttering and organizing. 

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you have chosen for your career path?

I would probably still be working in fashion or entertainment — maybe in production, maybe a talent agent — who knows! 

Like many creatives in our world, we tend to live life in the fast lane. What are some things you do to unwind after a hectic period in your life? What are some essentials you need to keep you going throughout the day/week?

I love unwinding watching tv and going on Pinterest at the same time. Probably not good for my brain but I can’t stop (*laughs*). At the same time, this year I have definitely prioritized movement, trying to get moving a few times a week even through a busy traveling schedule has made a huge difference in my health, both mentally and physically. 

What are some of your summer 2025 plans ahead?

I’m going to Greece with my mom, my boyfriend and his mom. It’s my second time in Greece but my mom’s first so I’m excited to see her reaction. I know she’ll love it. 

ALANI “WUZG00D” NOELLE (FASHION CREATIVE)

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Hometown: Bronx, NY 

Occupation: Philanthropy & Fashion Multi-hyphenate   

What was the first spark that inspired you to explore what you do now for your career? The joy of picking out my outfits as early as 5 years old sparked my entire career trajectory. 

What inspires you most these days?

Colors, patterns, textures and silhouettes. 

If you could only choose one item in your closet, what would you say is your most precious heirloom?

I think the Nike Swarovski Cactus Plant Flea Market Dunks are my most precious heirloom. 

Growing up, who was your style inspiration and why?

My first ever inspiration was my mother. She was always unapologetically herself. Then, my environment and culture largely shaped my style influence. The use of vibrant colors and gold jewelry in my Hispanic heritage was something I gravitated towards at an early age and I was also deeply inspired by how bold New Yorkers were in their style. Taking the trains was always filled with so many different forms of expression which encouraged me to find my own. 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I began dancing professionally at the age of 12 and ended up going to a performing arts high school.

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you have chosen for your career path?

That’s a tough question! Maybe a dancer, or an accountant or a scientist or an interior designer! 

Like many creatives in our world, we tend to live life in the fast lane. What are some things you do to unwind after a hectic period in your life? What are some essentials you need to keep you going throughout the day/week?

Time spent with family is my ideal way of unwinding. I like to recharge in a loving environment. To get me through the day/week, I just need a good iced oat milk latte!

What are some of your summer 2025 plans ahead? 

My favorite season is summer—it’s when I feel most creative. And New York summers are unmatched! So I’m looking forward to being in that energy. 

GRACE LING (FASHION DESIGNER)

This story appears in the pages of V153: now available for purchase!

Photography Petros

Fashion Anna Trevelyan

Hair Panos (Home) using Oribe

Makeup Jezz Hill (CLM)

Manicure Jazz Style (See Management) using Dior Beauty

Casting Savannah Sobrevilla

Production Alyson Cox

1st photo assistant Tom Maltbie

2nd photo assistant Talon Nathaniel

Digital technician Dallas Reines

Location Smashbox Studios

Styling assistants Angelina Khachaturyan, Junjie Huang

Hair assistant Harley Beman

Makeup assistants Cyler Daigle, Chelsea Rachel

Production assistants Ha Chu, Gabrielle Arriaga, Mizu Matsuura