A new generation of supermodels is here. They are taking over the world’s runways, serving looks on magazine covers, and becoming industry muses. These models are present both physically and digitally in today’s world. With summer just around the corner, they prepare for some well-deserved rest and relaxation—even in the face of COVID-19.

Opening the industry-changing Marc Jacobs SS20 fashion show, Vaughan Ollier puts the fun back into fashion. The ‘Texan-Australian’ model photographed by Inez and Vinoodh and styled by George Cortina is our next cover star for V125. Being a creative individual, Ollier loves to get lost in the moment—doing so on some of the world’s most exclusive runways. V talked with Vaughan Ollier about her hidden talents, what it’s been like living in New York throughout the pandemic, and her hopes to practice her surfing skills this summer.

Pre-order your own copy of V125, here.

Read the full interview, below.

V Where are you from?

VAUGHAN OLLIER Coffs Harbor, Australia, and Dallas, Texas. Two different sides of the world and two very different cultures. I loved having that different world view traveling between the two countries.

V How would you describe the summer of your dreams?

VO Long days with little to no responsibilities, and nights where you dance the night away.

V What is the ultimate summer song?

VO “Off to the Races” by Lana Del Rey.

V What is on your summer reading list?

VO Number one is The Testaments by Margaret Atwood.  I have been obsessed with Offred and The Handmaid’s Tale and can’t wait to read what happens next to all the characters in The Testaments.

V What is your favorite summer memory?

VO My favorite summer memory is definitely learning how to surf in Portugal last summer. I had an instructor who brought my sister and me to the most stunning and secluded beach on the Algarve coast. We were the only people on the beach. The water was warm and the sun was beating down on my back. I’ll never forget the rush of standing up on the board and the feeling of falling into the waves—really invigorating!

V When you’re not modeling, what are you up to?

VO I do love socializing and going out dancing but you don’t really know me unless you know my love of Pilates. Pilates is so good for the body and mind, I can literally plank for days.

V Do you have a hidden talent? What would people be surprised to hear?

VO My hidden talent? I’m excellent at cartwheels. I have been known to break out some cartwheels when the time is right and when there’s enough space to land [laughs].

V How would you describe the current wave of models/generation?

VO I’d say that the current wave of models, as well as my generation, are very aware and involved in society today. We want to be here and explore what we can do to not only help ourselves but try to better society or the world in some way. I know many girls that try to use modeling more as a platform and way to grow/advocate as opposed to just treating modeling as a job.

V How do you feel in front of the camera?

VO In front of the camera I really feel like a conduit for the moment. I have been so lucky to work with incredible people that are all so creative and talented and I just reflect that moment and electricity. All the people I’ve worked with have made me feel more alive and I think it shows in the film.

V What do you hope for this year?

VO I hope to grow more and develop as a person. I’m still trying to figure who I am and my role in the world. This year feels extremely important in terms of what’s occurring environmentally, socially politically-truly in all aspects. I hope I can find how I can make a difference in this pivotal moment and change with society for the better.

V How did the onset of this year’s public health crisis change your outlook on life and/or work?

VO You know this is crazy, I live in New York, I’ve seen the city shut down, my industry shutdown, and I wondered what next? How do we get through this…But I am hopeful because now we are all working together as a global community to help each other stay safe. People are eager to share their own tips, tricks, recipes, ideas with the rest of the world virtually into their homes. It is beautiful to see this global collaboration. We are all in this fight together, and even though people can’t support each other in person, we are seeing it happen online. Never have I felt so connected with others than I do now, and that makes me incredibly hopeful for the future!

V What have you learned (or what do you think people can learn) while in solitude / practicing social distance?

VO This is a huge opportunity. Instead of fighting this quarantine & feeling bored, let’s try to embrace it. Let’s use this time be creative at home, and in ways, we never thought possible

V Many people are reevaluating travel plans… If you were to be in one place for most of the summer, where would that be?

VO Ideally, I’d love to visit my family in Australia and spend some time on the coast, go to Byron Bay, then visit the Great Barrier Reef. I really need to get in the sun and surf this summer.