On a recent trip home to New Zealand, Fashion Quarterly caught up with New York-based model Teresa Moore during the Into the Woods muted florals shoot for autumn. Moore was born in Tonga and moved to New Zealand with her family when she was 10. She has since gone on to have a very successful international modelling career, working for big names such as Rolex, Ralph Lauren, L’Oreal, Clairol, Neutrogena, Ferrari, H&M and Diesel. When we caught up with her we talked style and her recent engagement.
Teresa wears a skirt by Andrea Moore, shirt by Liam and studs from Lovisa.
Congratulations on your engagement! Tell us all about the proposal.
We were on a small island in the Philippines called Apulit which was totally gorgeous. Aaron got the activities co-ordinator to make a fake starlight boat ride which we were “testing out” for the resort. There were a million stars to see since we were in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The boat took us to a private beach on the other side of the island where they served us a five course dinner with candles all around us. When he asked me I was speechless and so happy! I knew he was the one the moment I met him in New York. It was magical. He then played a playlist of our favourite songs on his iPhone and we danced on the beach.
How would you describe your style?
Sexy. Fun. Comfortable. Sofia Loren meets rock and roll.
The best piece of style advice you’ve ever been given?
You can’t go wrong with some good basics. Jeans and everything Helmut Lang. Dresses are an easy all in one look. White, tan, black and navy.
What’s your most memorable purchase?
My Helmut Lang leather pants. So cool.
What has been your most memorable photo shoot and why?
I shot a Bacardi campaign with photographer Ellen von Unwerth in a salsa club in New York City and it was meant to look like a party in Cuba in the 50s. We were partying and dancing all day. Ellen is so spontaneous and full of life and she really inspired me, she even followed me into the all-mirror bathroom for more pictures. She loves taking photographs and that’s why she is where she is.
What do you love about your job?
The travel, meeting new people all the time and the opportunity to grow as a model, businesswoman and a better person every day.
Favourite thing to do when you’re in New Zealand?
Going to a vineyard for wine tastings and lunch, or relaxing at my mum’s house in Whangaparaoa.
Favourite New Zealand designer?
Moochi and Turet Knuefermann.
Favourite international designers?
Balmain and Ellie Saab.
Whose style do you admire?
Karlie Kloss, Jessica Hart and Hanneli Mustaparta.
See the full Into the Woods shoot in Fashion Quarterly’s autumn issue, which is on sale now.
