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Meet the New Girl: Hailey Clauson Still Sleeps With Her Baby Blankie

Fifteen-year-old California-born Hailey Clauson is on the cusp of a serious breakout. Despite being just a sophomore in high school, she’s been lauded for her poise and maturity, earning comparisons to her fellow American teen model Karlie Kloss. Clauson’s innate elegance made her a must-book in her debut spring 2011 season, during which she walked for Calvin Klein, Gucci, Versace, Lanvin, Christian Dior, and Hermès. Yet while any model can get booked once, it’s all about being rebooked in this industry. Hear, hear: Clauson will become Gucci’s newest face next year and she’s already had major face time with Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott for Dsquared2’s spring campaign alongside Crystal Renn. We’ll stop right there, but know that that’s just the beginning of what’s to come. Click ahead to read a Q&A with Clauson and then visit her new model profile to see loads of on- and off-the-runway pics.

How did you get discovered?
About two years ago, I went to an open call in Los Angeles, and they signed me on the spot. It’s still a bit surreal to think about!

Tell us a bit about your childhood.
I actually played a lot of basketball when I was younger, and I was VERY intense about it. My dad was usually the coach of the teams I played on, so even though there was some extra pressure, we still had lots of fun memories together.

Share with us one of your favorite memories from this past show season.
On Fashion’s Night Out in New York, I had a really spontaneous schedule where I kept bumping into people I knew or wanted to meet. My favorite part was finally meeting Adriana Lima at the Victoria’s Secret store in Soho. I’ve admired her for such a long time … and now it’s hard to believe that we’re actually at the same agency! There were also these people randomly dancing in one of the parks, so I just went and joined in! It was just an unexpectedly fun night even though I planned nothing beforehand.

What do you on your off days?
Well, I don’t necessarily enjoy it, but usually on my days off I do homework. But when I’m finished, I do enjoy sleeping. Lots of sleeping.

Favorite supermodel?
The great Veruschka! Because she’s simply VERUSCHKA. That’s all anyone has to say!

Tell us something we don’t know about you.
I still sleep with my baby blanket …

If you could meet anyone, dead or alive, who would you meet?
Gianni Versace, because he always seemed to be very respectful of the models’ role in this business, and he helped so many become true supermodels.

What can we expect from you in the coming months — campaign- and editorial-wise?
Everyone will find out in due time!

Favorite thing about being a model?
Absolutely everything! From the amazing clothes we wear to all the new friends you make to all the new experiences, I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s just an amazing opportunity!

Worst thing about being a model?
After I finish a job, I hate waiting for the end product to finally be published. I’m always anxious and curious as to how the pictures will turn out!

Explore other rising stars (plus all the big names) in our extensive Model Manual, featuring runway pics, glamorous editorials, model bios, career timelines, and more.

Meet the New Girl: Hailey Clauson Still Sleeps With Her Baby Blankie