Melanie Gaydos knows there’s beauty and power in uniqueness. Growing up with a rare disorder called ectodermal dysplasia, she knows what it’s like to feel different. The disorder leads to the destruction of the body’s ability to develop nails, pores, teeth, cartilage, and bones. However, that hasn’t kept her from forming an incredible career as a model.
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- Melanie is embracing all of her incredible differences. In addition to ectodermal dysplasia, Melanie also has alopecia and is partially blind. However, instead of feeling bad about those differences, she realizes just how special that makes her.
- She refuses to use tools to change her appearance. While Melanie could easily wear wigs or dentures to make her appearance more conventional, Melanie refuses to do so as she looks amazing as-is. Why would she cover that natural beauty?
- Melanie didn’t always love having her picture taken. As an art graduate in New York City, Melanie wasn’t comfortable being photographed for a while. However, a former boyfriend convinced her to start modeling and she’s never looked back since!
- She hopes the fashion industry will continue to change. Big strides have been made, but Melanie knows the industry needs to go even further in terms of inclusivity and representation. Couldn’t agree more!
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