Modeling and Tattoos 

Tarek Al is an actor and social media influencer focused on lifestyle and travel. His journey started as a reaction to being rejected by some modeling agencies for his tattoos. Until recently, tattoos weren’t associated with high fashion. Now, there are tattoo modeling agencies. 

“Brands were missing out on a huge demographic,” Tarek states. “If it weren’t for influencers, tattoos might still be considered out of fashion, along with a lot of other trends. There are lots of models that walk runways with tattoos. Photographers also have the ability to edit photos, so I was surprised that my tattoos were affecting my career in that way.” 

Breaking stereotypes 

“The rejections I experienced because of my tattoos forced me, and I suspect many others, to get innovative and show that models with tattoos speak to a significant audience of potential buyers. I started with some simple photos showcasing outfits I put together. Soon after, I noticed that I was getting a lot of attention on Instagram,” Tarek describes.

“Users thought my tattoos were unique and connected with my online presence. I was showing that people with tattoos are stylish. In fact, tattoos are very stylish. I guess people still associate tattoos with grungy stereotypes. This may be true for some, but I feel that tattoos have definitely transcended that stereotype. Most people have at least one!”  

Marketers are on Board with Influencers 

“A photographer reached out to me via Instagram and asked if I would do a photoshoot. After posting those photos, I got my first official/non-official paid Instagram gig. Fossil wanted to create some posts of me wearing some of their watches. They said they liked how my hand tattoo gave their product “an edge” and that they wanted to collaborate. After that, more brands started reaching out,” Tarek explains. 

Influencers are Important to Branding

“This experience has taught me a lot about the industry of branding. So far, the brands that have wanted to collaborate have said that my social media presence has a genuine feel to it. Essentially, they would like to appeal to a different audience using the trust I have built with my following.” 

He continues, “Brands are open to my recommendations because they so rarely target this demographic. Most brands are hip to the idea of influencers. Influencers have a lot of power right now. I think the biggest takeaway for brands is to be inclusive and diverse in your choices if you want to reach a broader audience.” 

Fashion and Lifestyle Influencer

Because of his extensive experience in art direction, production, and success in the industry, Tarek launched his advertising start-up in 2019. He’s traveled the world making campaigns for high-end luxury brands and has kept them all as loyal clients. 

As a fashion and lifestyle influencer, he has created content for well-known brands, such as Mont Blanc, Adidas, Dior, Chanel, MVMT, Zara, H&M, and more. He was one of the Top 5 Miami Fashion Influencers and featured in Buzzfeed’s Sexiest Men with Tattoos article.