Gone are the days when models had to dress like a blank canvas—today’s crop of runway faces is encouraged to embrace their personal style and express their individuality through their fashion choices—be it jeans and a tee or a look-at-me statement dress. Every month, Vogue dives into the stylish wardrobes of a model of the moment to see what they’re wearing off the catwalk.
Consider these the perfect references to pin to your seasonal mood board—because is there anything cooler than model-off-duty style?
This month, meet 18-year-old model River Klein. A true born-and-raised New Yorker, Klein was scouted by Heroes Model Management at just 14 years old, and she’s been booked and busy ever since. This season alone, she walked the spring 2027 shows for brands such as Coach and Ami Paris, and Klein has recently starred in campaigns for Calvin Klein and Polo Ralph Lauren, too.
Even better than her stacked resumé? Klein’s unique personal style, which she describes as “a bit messy and a bit ’90s.” Her wardrobe is stacked with vintage designer bags (Chloé Paddingtons! Fuzzy Chanels!), vintage tees, and impeccable shoes—from leather clogs to shearling boots.
Want to dress like a top model, too? Below, Klein answers Vogue’s model questionnaire—and shares her discovery story, her favorite assignment to date, and what’s currently in her closet.
What’s your modeling discovery story?
I was scouted when I was 14, while walking around in Soho, shopping with a friend.
Do you have any stories from living in a model apartment?
I have never actually stayed in a model apartment! But I just started my freshman year of college at NYU, and I am living in a dorm for the first time.
What was your first runway show?
My first show was a Calvin Klein exclusive for Veronica Leoni's first collection, fall 2025. It was such an exciting and nerve-wracking moment. I remember my friends texting me that they watched the live stream in math class.
What has been your favorite job to date, and why?
I have a few. Shooting my Self Service cover with Ezra [Petronio] on his bigshot camera was such a memorable moment for me, and working with Alasdair McLellan and Max Pearmain in the White Cliffs of Dover for my Harper's Bazaar Italia cover was a surreal experience.
Also, working with Steven Meisel, Karl Templer, and Fabien Baron for Zara fall 2026 was such an insane moment—so many icons working on one job, and it was Pat [McGrath]’s birthday!
What was the first moment you felt like you made it?
My Ralph Lauren campaign fall 2025 by David Sims. I had friends sending me the campaign from all around the world, and I got to see it on billboards in the city I've lived in my whole life.
How would you describe your personal style these days?
A bit messy and a bit ’90s. It's such a mix of vintage, more elevated pieces, and streetwear. I can't really think of one way to describe what I wear, because it evolves every day.
What are the three hero pieces in your wardrobe?
My shearling Miu Miu boots: I wear them so much that the soles are literally disintegrating. Vintage bags—my favorites are my old Chloé Paddington, my 2005 fur Chanel, and my 2006 patchwork Chanel. And Hysteric Glamour tees.
What do you typically wear on a casting or go-see?
I have these cool vintage Dior heels, and I usually wear low-rise black pants and a comfy white tank.
What is your main Fashion Week survival tip?
Uber Eats. And spending time with friends!
If you weren’t a model, what would you be doing?
Being fully focused on college, but probably maintaining a job in a creative field, like design or creative direction. I’m also really passionate about music, just not sure what job within that field would best suit me. I always need more than one thing to do. I hate being still, I like to be busy.
What's next on your bucket list? What do you still hope to achieve?
I just turned 18, so I really want to shoot with Chanel and Saint Laurent. There are so many people I want to work with, like Hedi Slimane. I have always admired his distinct imagery. And of course, I’d love a Vogue cover.