Kelsey Merritt: Beyond the Runway

Trusting in Timelines 

In 2018, Kelsey Merritt became the first Filipina to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show — a moment that would come to define her career. For Merritt, modeling has always served as a means to a larger purpose, giving her the tools to discover culture, craftsmanship, and ultimately, herself. With nearly a decade in the industry and a run of campaigns with Tiffany & Co., Dior, Chanel, and more, Merritt is no longer just building a modeling career; she’s using her platform to catapult herself into her next chapter. Ahead, Merritt talks representation, reinvention, and why she’s finally ready to trust her own timeline.

Let’s start with your career; was modeling something you always knew you were passionate about?

When I was growing up, it never occurred to me that I could be a model, as it didn’t feel like an accessible career in the Philippines. I was granted the opportunity to begin modeling as a teenager, and at first, that’s all it was. The passion came over time as I realized modeling could take me all over the world. My job suddenly became much bigger than taking photos. It gave me the opportunity to experience different cultures, meet incredible people, and see parts of the world I never imagined.

That said, my “aha” moment was when I began working internationally. On these trips, I realized this wasn’t just a job; it was something I could build a real future around. I fell in love with the creativity, discipline, and constant opportunity to reinvent myself. It pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best way.

Looking back, what are some of your career “pinch me” moments?

Walking in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show will always be at the top of that list. Shooting for Sports Illustrated was another huge milestone because it’s such an iconic publication. Working with brands like Tiffany & Co., Ralph Lauren, Dior, and Chanel is always incredibly special because I’ve admired the craftsmanship for years. There are quieter moments that feel just as meaningful. When I see my campaign on a billboard or myself on a magazine cover, I realize how far I’ve come from where I started.

But honestly, the biggest pinch-me moment is knowing that I’m making 5-year-old Kelsey proud. Every time I achieve something she never could have imagined, I think about that little girl growing up in the Philippines. It grounds me and reminds me to stay grateful. No matter how many milestones I reach, that feeling never goes away.

It is an incredible accomplishment to be the first Filipina to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Can you walk us through what that was like for you?

At the time, I did not fully process the significance because I was so focused on doing my best. I was excited, nervous, and incredibly grateful. It wasn’t until afterward that I realized what it meant for so many Filipinos around the world. Knowing that young girls could see someone who looked like them on that runway made the moment so much bigger than myself. It reminded me that representation matters not just because people feel seen, but because it expands what’s possible for the next generation.

How did that moment change your career?

That moment opened doors for me internationally, and I was introduced to a much broader audience. Additionally, it gave me a greater sense of responsibility because I realized people were looking to me as someone representing the Philippines on a global stage.

Since 2018, I’ve seen the industry become much more inclusive. There’s still progress to be made, but today there’s a much broader understanding that beauty isn’t one definition. Different backgrounds, cultures, and stories are being celebrated rather than treated as exceptions.

Now, you’re signed with a major platform, IMG Models. Let’s chat through the evolution of your career.

Signing with IMG feels like a natural evolution because it reflects where I want to take my career next. Modeling will always be a huge part of what I do, but I’m also thinking long-term. I want to build a career that’s diversified through acting, meaningful brand partnerships, and creative projects that feel authentic to me. Over time, I’ve become much more intentional about saying yes to opportunities that align with the career and life I want to build.

What are some of your goals for your career?

One of my biggest career priorities moving forward is acting. I’ve been training consistently because I want to earn opportunities through preparation, not just because people know me as a model. I’d love to work with filmmakers who tell emotionally rich stories and continue to challenge me creatively.

I’m also focused on deepening my relationships with brand partners while laying the foundation for something of my own one day, whether that’s a business, product, or another creative venture. Personally, I want to continue traveling, spend time with my family, and find a better balance between working toward future goals and being fully present in the life I’m living now.

Beyond modeling, how are you expanding your career? In terms of acting, is there a genre, role, or filmmaker you’re building toward?

Acting has become a major focus for me. I’m taking classes regularly and really treating it as a craft. I’m drawn to stories that explore human complexity and characters who feel nuanced and emotionally honest. Those are the performances that stay with me as a viewer, so naturally they’re the ones I hope to be part of as an actor. Ultimately, I want to work with filmmakers who create thoughtful, emotionally honest films that stay with people long after they’ve watched them.

Being a model today also means developing your own personal brand. How have you seen this change over the years, and how is it influencing your growth as a creator?

When I started, modeling and social media felt like completely separate worlds. Now they’re deeply connected. Audiences want to know who you are beyond the photos. I’ve learned that authenticity is far more valuable than trying to create a perfect image. I enjoy sharing travel, fashion, beauty, wellness, and moments from my everyday life because people connect with real personalities much more than curated perfection. It’s also been so fulfilling to have a platform where I can share my creative side. Being a model, you’re a blank canvas, and you’re supposed to give life to someone else’s vision. I love creating because people get to see the creative side of me and my perspective.

You’ve fostered amazing brand partnerships; can you walk us through your approach to partnering with a brand, especially in the luxury space?

For me, the best partnerships happen when there’s genuine alignment. I want to work with brands that have a strong heritage, exceptional craftsmanship, and embody values that genuinely resonate with me. Luxury is about storytelling just as much as it is about the product itself. When I create, I want it to feel elegant and aspirational while still feeling natural. I’ve learned that when you’re genuinely yourself, the right partnerships tend to happen naturally.

Favorite jewelry trends right now? Favorite pieces to style?

My personal style has always leaned toward timeless jewelry rather than trend-driven pieces. I love sculptural gold and designs that feel modern but can be worn for years. An everyday pair of diamond studs, a beautiful tennis necklace, or a bold cuff can completely transform an outfit without feeling overdone. Those are the pieces I reach for most because they’re versatile and effortless.

How would you describe your personal style?

Classic with a modern edge. I love clean tailoring, beautiful fabrics, and timeless silhouettes, but I also like incorporating unexpected elements that make an outfit feel personal. I tend to invest in pieces that I’ll still want to wear ten years from now rather than chasing every trend.

What’s your definition of luxury?

Luxury, to me, is quality over quantity. It’s about craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and experiences that enrich your life. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized luxury also means having time. Time with family, time to travel, time to disconnect, and the freedom to be intentional with how you spend your days.

You’re also passionate about ocean conservation. Can you tell us more about that?

Growing up in the Philippines gave me a deep appreciation for the ocean. Some of my favorite memories are connected to being in or around the water, and it’s heartbreaking to see how much marine ecosystems are changing. I believe everyone has a role to play, whether it’s through small daily choices or by supporting organizations doing meaningful conservation work. I’d love to become even more involved in ocean conservation as my platform continues to grow because it’s a cause that’s deeply personal to me.

Looking back, what’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self?

Trust your own timeline. It’s easy to compare yourself to other people, especially in an industry where everyone seems to be achieving something incredible every day. I’ve learned that opportunities come when you’re prepared for them, not necessarily when you expect them. I’d also remind myself that confidence isn’t something you’re born with — it’s something you build by continuing to show up, even when you’re scared. I feel the most confident when I have a strong sense of purpose and direction, especially when I know I’ve put in the work and prepared as much as I can.

Looking ahead, what are some of your major goals, personally and professionally?

Professionally, I hope to continue building a career that’s both creative and lasting — one that spans modeling, acting, meaningful partnerships, and eventually projects of my own. I want to keep challenging myself creatively and create work I’m proud of for years to come. Personally, I hope to continue traveling, spend more time with the people I love, stay connected to my roots in the Philippines, and eventually build a life that feels as fulfilling off camera as it does on camera. To me, success is having a career I’m passionate about while still making space for the people, experiences, and moments that matter most.

By: Adrienne Faurote
Photography: Caleb & Gladys
Styling: Anna Katsanis

Hair: Stefano Greco at The Wall Group using Oribe
Makeup: Soo Park at The Wall Group using Hung Vanngo Beauty
Production: Shelby Comroe