Roz

Rawan Abdullah Abu Zaid known as "Roz“ is a model and influencer from Saudi Arabia, and currently resides in Los Angeles. Roz is the first model from Saudi Arabia to work with mainstream fashion brands like Bulgari, Dolce and Gabana, Swavorski, and more. She moved to the United States to pursue a degree in interior design but decided to pursue her dream of becoming a model. She boasts a cool 12.7 million followers, which makes her one of the most popular Saudi models on the platform. She also has her own makeup collaboration with the brand The Balm; her traveling and journeys inspired the collection.

Headpiece by Aida.Novosel
Necklace by Federica Rossi
Dress by ANИAKIKI

What was it like to grew up in Saudi Arabia?
Growing up in Saudi was completely different from the United States. Family is incredibly important; you don’t really move out until you start your own family. It is very traditional and Saudi people are incredibly generous and caring towards each other.

Why were you interested in studying Interior Design in the United States?
I love designing and decorating homes and spaces. I have a passion for all design and art, and I consider myself to be creative.

What led you to become a model?
I have always dreamt of being in fashion and modeling the clothes. When I was younger I would always play dress up and have pretend fashion shows with my cousins. I feel I have a responsibility to use my voice to inspire young women everywhere. Being a model and having a social following carries so much weight and responsibility. I try to use my platform for good and spreading positivity.

Left:
Dress by NUOFFICIAL
Shoes by Voyetté
Right:
Dress by BENT KAHINA

Tell me about a challenge you faced when modeling?
Being the first female model in Saudi Arabia was challenging due to the religion and culture. But I think I broke barriers in the most respectful way possible.

What does it take to become a model?
You have to open up your life to the public as a model and be aware of how you present yourself while being in the public eye. It is important to be determined and hard working as well.

Do you have a favorite shoot you can share and why?
Every new designer I work with I find the experience is incredibly exciting for my career.

Left:
Dress by BENT KAHINA
Right: 
Dress by NUOFFICIAL
Shoes by Voyetté

What was it like to work with leading brands such as Bulgari, Dolce and Gabana, and Swavorski? Do you have a favorite destination trip with them you can remember?
My favorite trip I can remember is going to Big Sur. I had never gone “glamping” before and it was such a fun adventure.

How would you describe your Instagram platform?
Authentic

How would you describe your fashion style on your Instagram page?
Fashion forward, simple, and elegant.

Traveling seems to be a big inspiration for work on Instagram and the makeup collaboration, The Balm, tell us about that and some of your favorite destinations?
Traveling with my friends, seeing new destinations, and having new experiences have been so exciting. Also traveling for work for NYFW, for example, is crazy and I am always on the go, but I love seeing all the shows, meeting the designers and other models.

What inspired you to collaborate on a makeup line with The Balm?
I chose The Balm because they are a women-run business, and I love supporting that.  Working with that team was amazing. I also love that the prices are affordable, I have been using their makeup for a long time as well so it felt like a perfect fit. They're also eco-friendly, vegan, and cruelty free, which are traits that are incredibly important to me.

Full Look by BENT KAHINA

What are some of your hobbies?
I like to draw, dance, and sing even though I don’t have the best voice, LOL.

What are you plans for the future?
To own my own business outside of social media and, one day, to be an actress in TV or movies.

Social Media:
IG: @model_roz

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer + Producer: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Talent: ROZ
Fashion Stylist: Melvin Sanders
Hair: Ana Estela
Makeup: Raquel Moreno
Photographer’s Assistant: Ozzie Gutierrez
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Alison Hernon, Editor-In-Chief, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: FD Studios

SHOP THE LOOK: ROZ

RELATED STORIES

EntertainmentAlison Hernon#model, #influencer, #Saudi Arabia, #Los Angeles, #Victoria's Secret PINK, #Guess, #The Balm, #traveling, #vegan, #crueltyfree, #eco-friendly