“If you do not work well with others, modeling and the fashion industry are probably not for you.” – Mary Bentley

 

  DFW Style Daily’s exclusive series Face Time gets personal with top Dallas models. We’ve relived a very risky rural photo shoot with Cameron Phan, dished on a stomach-churning Calvin Klein audition with Lexi Russell, and heard the glamorous details of Carlotta Lennox’s unparalleled experience at the atelier of Yves Saint Laurent. And we’re just getting started. Today, Manhattan native Mary Bentley takes the Face Time interview challenge. From her personal hero to her most memorable shoots, this couture chameleon tells it like it is. Read on for the details, and click here for more Face Time model features.     Name: Mary Bentley Hometown: New York City Agency: Vera Crosby Model Management Notable Clients: Living Magazine, Society Life Magazine, IBM, Cinderella Hair, Verizon, Binzario Couture, Paulette Martsolf/Allie-Coosh  

  DFW Style Daily: At what age did you begin modeling? Tell us about your first job. Mary Bentley: “My first experience in modeling was on the runway for a local retailer. I was so excited just to be there, I would have worn a potato sack if they had asked. The creative energy of every person there so inspired me - I was hooked.” What do you think is the biggest misconception about the modeling industry? “Most folks do not realize all the hard work that takes place behind an amazing image. The time, talent, hours of planning, risk, and dedication that go into the final product are a team effort. If you do not work well with others, modeling and the fashion industry are probably not for you.” What is the craziest, silliest, or most unusual thing you have done on a job? “This one is a toss up between the time a photographer almost set my hair on fire when he put too much rubber cement glue on some fire logs to get a realistic shot in the dark, or wearing a fur coat and boots for an outdoor winter shoot in Dallas in 115-degree weather.” Are there any ‘deal breakers’ for you when it comes to job requirements?  “I will not associate myself with a client that is unethical, or who is not honest in their business dealings with others.”  

  What is your dream assignment, or who would be your dream client? “My dream assignment would be to do print work for Oscar de la Renta or Dolce & Gabbana. I love the whole Renaissance resurgence in fashion.” Do you have a personal role model? What have you learned from her example? “My Grandmother Rose was my hero. She was widowed at age 27 and raised three children to be productive, educated members of society. She had the most incredible spirit. Grandma Rose loved life, and was very generous with her talents and time to anyone in need.” How would you describe your personal style? Do you have any favorite Dallas-area shopping spots? “Versatile. My closet looks like it belongs to several different people. I have a section of classic business attire, edgy leather garments, vintage couture, whimsical fad frocks, jeans, and tee shirts. My modeling portfolio looks the same.  Many times, I am told that I do not look like the same person from print to print. When shopping, I love supporting local business owners. I am always on the lookout for creative, unique clothing. My favorite shopping spots are too numerous to list. We are so fortunate in this area to have so many creative local designers.”  

  What did you have for dinner last night? “Sliced orange bell pepper, steamed snap peas, lean beef on the barbecue, and plenty of water.” If you had a free afternoon or evening in Dallas, how would you spend it?  “I would love to sit down with Jerry Jones and Jason Garrett and discuss the strategy for a winning Dallas Cowboys season.” Finally, do you have any words of wisdom for those aspiring to a career in the fashion world? “Don’t let anyone steal your dreams. Find yourself a good mentor, and be a good mentor to all that ask for your help.”   All images, courtesy Mary Bentley & Vera Crosby Model Management