Alexis Ruby is a 23-year-old model who came on to the scene recently after her photographer friend posted a photo of her on social media. At the time Ruby has no intentions of modeling, she was on a path to become a Gospel singer. But, after the photo circulated online, she was courted to New York to meet with modeling agencies before she signed to IMG Models. She debuted at the Marc Jacobs show last year and is being referred to as Jacobs’ “personal muse.”

Half Irish, Half African-American, plus sized and entering the industry at 23 all have made her unique in the modeling world, and also made her a sensation. “Curvy, confident and fun, she’s a breath of fresh air on the runway,” writes Vogue.