BY THE SEA WITH PIA KRISTINE CRUZ: EXCLUSIVE EDITORIAL
From experiencing homelessness with her son in 2016 to booking YSL, Nike, Ann Summers, and Blauer, model Pia Kristine Cruz has built a career on staying grounded, present, and unapologetically herself. In OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW, PIA opens up about finding purpose through modeling, balancing motherhood with an unpredictable industry, and why confidence will always outshine labels.
Paired with an exclusive editorial by photographer Emilio Costa, shot under the sun-drenched skies of southern Cyprus, Pia’s story is one of resilience, simplicity, and style that feels entirely her own.
How did your journey into modeling begin, and what moment made you realise this was a career you wanted to pursue?
My journey into modelling started completely by accident. In 2016, my son and I were homeless for eight months, and modelling ultimately helped me change our situation. At first, I never imagined it could become a career. That changed when I was offered a contract through Instagram. It was the first moment I realised this was something I could genuinely pursue and build a future from.
How do you balance your day-to-day life between your career, motherhood, and your own time? What’s your favourite part of each day?
The creative industry isn’t always consistent, and there are periods when I don’t have bookings. Instead of seeing that as a negative, I see it as an opportunity to be present for my son and spend quality time with him. It also gives me space to recharge and focus on myself. My favourite part of the day is actually waking up—every new day feels like a fresh start and a new opportunity.
In an industry that also pushes inconsistent standards, how have you stayed true to your individuality and own sense of self?
I’ve learned not to take things personally. In this industry, a client either likes your look or they don’t, and that’s okay. I don’t attach my self-worth to bookings or opportunities. Whether I’m confirmed for a job or not, it doesn’t change who I am as a person, and I think that’s helped me stay grounded.
Your personal style feels very authentic and effortless — how would you describe the relationship between fashion and your identity?
I honestly don’t overthink it too much. I wear what I like, what feels comfortable, and what feels right for me. Fashion, for me, is simply an extension of who I am—it’s about feeling good in what I’m wearing rather than following trends or trying to fit a certain image.
What pieces, looks, or fashion choices make you feel the most confident and empowered as a woman and a mother?
I believe confidence comes from character, not labels or price tags. A woman can wear the most affordable outfit and still make it look elegant and expensive when she carries herself with confidence. For me, feeling empowered as a woman and a mother isn’t about a particular brand or trend—it’s about self-respect, authenticity, and the way I present myself to the world.
How do you balance being seen as both a public figure and a person with private individuality outside of modelling?
I’ve learned to keep things balanced. I don’t feel like I become a different person when I’m on camera or in public. I’m still myself—I’m just a little more mindful, filtered, and aware of my surroundings. Maintaining that balance allows me to stay authentic while also respecting the professional side of what I do.
Was there ever a point in your career where you felt pressured to fit a certain image? How did you protect your authenticity?
Honestly, no. I’ve been fortunate enough to be booked for who I am, and that’s one of the biggest blessings of my career. I’ve never felt the need to change myself to fit a certain image. Staying authentic has always come naturally because I know that the right opportunities will align with who I am.
How has your perception of beauty evolved over the years — what are your secrets for staying fit and healthy?
Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate beauty in the simplest things. I truly believe less is more. Simplicity allows our individuality to shine through instead of hiding behind trends or expectations.
As for staying fit and healthy, my number one secret is staying away from drama and protecting my peace. A healthy mind makes a huge difference. After that, it’s about consistency—getting to the gym, moving my body, and taking care of myself.
What advice would you give to young women trying to find confidence in their own style and identity instead of following trends or expectations?
Confidence is built by keeping the promises you make to yourself. It starts with doing what you said you were going to do, even when no one is watching. Once you build that trust in yourself, confidence follows naturally. When you’re secure in who you are, you don’t feel the need to chase every trend or live up to other people’s expectations.
When you take a look back at some of your most recent milestones, which ones stand out to you?
A few definitely stand out. Working with YSL, Ann Summers, Nike, and Blauer have all been significant milestones in my career. Each opportunity represented growth in a different way and reminded me how far I’ve come from where I started.
STREET STYLE
