As a supermodel, businesswoman, actress, television personality, and loving mother, Cynthia is such a dynamic force. In order to pursue her dream of being a fashion model, she took leap of faith and relocated to New York, which paved the way for a successful and prosperous career. In this exclusive interview with L’Officiel Monaco, we explore her trailblazing career.
By L’Officiel Monaco
Hat and Bodysuit @geoffreymac
You moved to New York at 18 with little more than determination—what do you remember most about those first few months chasing your dream?
I remember being both terrified and excited at the same time. Moving to New York at 18 with nothing but determination was stepping straight into the unknown, and that was scary, but the thought of not going for it was even scarier. I couldn’t imagine living a life filled with “what ifs” and regrets. Those first few months taught me resilience, faith, and the power of betting on yourself. Every challenge reminded me that chasing your dreams is never easy, but it’s always worth it. Looking back, I see it as one of the greatest blessings of my life because it gave me not only a career, but also the opportunity to live in my purpose.
Landing the cover of ESSENCE so early in your career was groundbreaking. How did that moment shape your path as a model?
Landing the cover of ESSENCE so early in my career was life-changing. As a young Black woman stepping into the fashion world, that moment gave me a sense of validation and purpose. It showed me that representation matters and that my presence had meaning beyond just a picture. It was about opening doors and inspiring others. It shaped my path as a model because it reminded me that this career wasn’t just about me; it was also about the legacy I was building and the positive energy I could put into the world through my work.
Hat and Bodysuit @geoffreymac
From Paris to Milan, you’ve walked some of the world’s most iconic runways. Which fashion moment abroad left the biggest impression on you?
Walking the runways in Paris and Milan was a dream come true, but the moment that left the biggest impression on me was my very first European show. I opened & closed the show, which was a huge honor for me, especially since it was my first show in Paris. I remember standing backstage, surrounded by models from all over the world, and realizing that I was part of something so much bigger than myself. The energy was overwhelming, and although I was nervous, I knew that this was my opportunity to shine, and that is precisely what I did! That experience gave me the confidence to know I could hold my own on any stage in the world. It wasn’t just about the clothes; it was about stepping into my power and embracing the fact that I belonged in that space.
BAD BINCH TONGTONG @bad_binch_tongtong
You’ve appeared in campaigns for major brands like Maybelline and Neiman Marcus. How did you navigate the transition from high fashion to commercial success?
Navigating the transition from high fashion to commercial success was really about understanding the bigger picture of longevity in this industry. High fashion gave me credibility, but commercial work gave me visibility and financial stability. I had to learn how to be versatile. One day it might be an editorial shoot in Paris, the next a campaign for a global beauty brand. I embraced both worlds by staying true to my look, my work ethic, and my professionalism. That balance allowed me to grow as a model, build relationships with major brands, and create a career that was sustainable over time.
Being photographed by Annie Leibovitz alongside legends such as Iman and Naomi Campbell is iconic. What did that experience mean to you personally and professionally?
Being photographed by Annie Leibovitz with legends such as Iman, Naomi Campbell, Beverly Johnson, and Tyra Banks was one of the most magical moments of my career. Personally, I remember feeling so humbled and in awe. These are women I grew up idolizing, and suddenly I was standing beside them, sharing the same frame. It was overwhelming in the best way, almost like a dream I didn’t even know I was allowed to dream. Professionally, it was a stamp of validation. To be seen on that level, captured by such an iconic photographer, gave me the confidence to know that I truly belonged in that space. That day will always stay with me, not just as a career highlight, but as a reminder of how far faith, hard work, and perseverance can take you.
As a model who has worked with outstanding designers, who are some designers that inspire you today?
That’s always such a tricky question because fashion is constantly evolving, but a few designers really stand out to me right now. LaQuan Smith inspires me with the way he celebrates confidence and sensuality. His designs are sexy, glamorous, and empower women to feel both effortless and chic. I would honestly love the opportunity to walk for him one day. Christopher John Rogers excites me because of his fearless use of color and bold silhouettes. His work feels like art in motion, unapologetic and editorial-ready. And Aurora James of Brother Vellies is someone I also admire, not just for her stunning shoes and accessories, but also for the way she uses her platform to push for inclusivity and social impact. Seeing women designers like her create with both beauty and purpose is so inspiring. For me, these designers remind me that fashion isn’t just about clothes, it’s about expression, empowerment, and shifting the culture forward.
BAD BINCH TONGTONG @bad_binch_tongtong
After more than a decade on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, how do you reflect on the impact reality television had on your career and platform?
After spending more than a decade on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, I can honestly say reality television was a game-changer for me. The show gave me a platform that went far beyond modeling. It allowed people to really get to know Cynthia the woman, not just Cynthia the model. It amplified my voice, connected me to millions of people around the world, and opened doors I never could have imagined. At the same time, it challenged me to be vulnerable and authentic, even when it wasn’t easy. Looking back, I see it as an incredible chapter that helped me expand my brand, step into entrepreneurship, and use my platform to inspire and empower others.
Beyond modeling, you’ve built a wide business portfolio—from Glowissima skincare to CBVIOR urban luxury goods. What drives your entrepreneurial spirit?
What drives my entrepreneurial spirit is the belief that we’re all meant to live in abundance and use our gifts in different ways. Modeling opened the first door for me, but I’ve always felt called to create, to build, and to inspire through business as well. Each venture, whether it’s my Glowissima skincare line or my CBVIOR luxury urban wear brand, is an extension of who I am and what I value: confidence, connection, and celebrating life. At the core, it’s about legacy. I want to create things that not only bring me joy, but also empower others and live on beyond me.
Jacket by @geoffreymac
With your podcast HUMBLEBRAG, you’ve stepped into a new space. What inspired you & your co-host, Crystal Kung Minkoff, to launch it, and what do you hope listeners take away?
What inspired us to launch HUMBLEBRAG was the desire to create a space for real and fun, authentic conversations. I’ve been blessed to live many chapters in my life, and I know the power of sharing stories: the highs, the lows, and everything in between. The podcast celebrates humility, vulnerability, laughter, and strength simultaneously, demonstrating that you can take pride in your journey while remaining grounded with a sense of humor. My hope is that listeners walk away feeling inspired, encouraged, and reminded that they’re not alone in whatever they’re going through. If we can spark even one “aha” moment, shift someone’s perspective for the better, or brighten someone’s day with funny stories about our lives, then I feel like we’re doing something meaningful in a fun, spirited way.
You’ve spoken about faith, ambition, and positive energy. How have these values guided you during challenges in your career and personal life?
Faith, ambition, and positive energy are really the foundation of how I move through life. My faith keeps me grounded and reminds me that everything happens when God wants it to happen, even when the road gets difficult. My ambition pushes me to keep going, to dream bigger, and to never settle for less than what I know I’m capable of. And choosing positive energy is how I protect my peace, it’s how I shift my perspective, even in the middle of challenges, and keep my spirit light. Together, those values remind me that obstacles aren’t there to stop me, they’re there to teach me, strengthen me, and prepare me for what’s next.
As you focus on your acting career and “living your best life,” what excites you most about this next chapter?
What excites me most about this chapter is living in true alignment with my purpose. This season feels personal because it’s about choosing myself, being fully present, and embracing the joy, peace, and authenticity that come with walking in divine timing.
Suit by @Jovani
PROCODE DRESS (@lilachporges)
Team Credits:
Cynthia Bailey @cynthiabailey
Photographer: J.D. Barnes @jdthecombo
Creative Director & Stylist: Oliver Brown @olvrbrwn
Hair: Ro Morgan @hairbyromorgan
Makeup: T. Cooper @tcooperbeauty
Wardrobe Assistant: Trinity Yvette @slaybytrinity
Assistant Photographer: Emron Irvin @shotbyemron
Digital Tech: Oren Siddo @orensiddo
Producer: OLVR BRWN Studios @olvrbrwnstudios