Chicago-born model/actress Heather Marie Dutchess has quite the Cinderella story. This hottie started off 2011 homeless, because of the effects of taking care of her mentally disabled sister. By 2012 she completely bounced back from this, building an impressive resume for her modelling career, being seen in a lot of music videos and advertisements for major brands including Prada, Chase Bank, Bebe, and more. She has also posed as a double for Victoria’s Secret hottie Adriana Lima. She does all of this while teaching preschoolers. Truly impressive.
We got a chance to talk to this lovely, and get her responses to our favourite Q&A:
Where were you born, and how was life growing up?
I was born in Midlothian, IL and had a very rough upbringing, I came from a broken home which revolved around mental illness and I actually became homeless due to my sister’s illness.
What nationality are you?
I am half Dutch and half Mexican.
Do you go to college?
I graduated in 2009 with a B.A in Early Childhood Education.
How long have you been modeling?
I have been modeling since 17.
How did you get your start in modeling?
I went to an open call for Ford [Models] when I was a teenager and they started working with me right away.
Where have we seen you?
You have seen me at promo events, music videos, Skynamic Calendar 2012 chi-town Grind Magazine, Ring Card Girl, Runway shows, I’m used on the examiner.com website for ads, you’ve seen my feet for Bebe and Guess ads for boutique
Do you consider yourself famous?
Far from it.
Do people recognize you when you’re out and about? If so, how do they react to or treat you?
In the city they do and artists do. They usually just compliment me and show some love and support.
What do you like best about being a model?
I love meeting new people and it’s still fun working and meeting celebrities.
What would you be if you weren’t a model?
I’d still be a teacher so I guess a more dedicated teacher.
What would the average person say about you?
People have been telling me I’m very animated like a cartoon.
What’s one thing about yourself that everyone should know?
I have morals and values. I’m not your typical model I’ve literally been through hell and back and built everything I have ground up.
Are you a good dancer?
No but I love to dance and I love it when I can instantly make someone laugh because I look so ridiculous.
What do guys compliment you most on?
My eyes and my hair.
Do you like the nerdy type, MMA fighter guy or the regular Joe?
Can I like a nerdy MMA fighter? I love the fighters because most of them are so sexy but I like nerdy personalities that can make me laugh.
Are you seeing anyone? Do we stand a chance with you?
I’m single and as long as a man can make me laugh and has a good career he defiantly stands a chance.
Do you have any secret weaknesses or guilty pleasures?
My guilty pleasures are ice cream and chocolate. My weakness is bad boys.
What’s your biggest turn-on?
A good-looking man that can make me laugh.
Do you consider yourself more of a “giver” or a “taker”?
I’m a giver all the way around the board!*
What is the most romantic thing a guy has done for you?
Well, I haven’t really been romanced that much, but one of my exes took me shopping and then lit candles in the bathtub for me and then I woke up to a boutique of flowers.
If you could have any car you wanted, what would it be?
I would adore a Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I rap for fun and laughs.
What would you consider your strongest attribute?
My drive to succeed.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and who would you take with you?
I would go somewhere tropical and take all of my close friends.
What do you normally sleep in?
T-shirt and boxers.
What is your favourite food?
McDonald’s and Italian food. There’s this great ristorante I used to work at called Bivona. It’s on the north side of Chicago. They have some great Italian dishes.
Who is your favourite comedian?
Dane Cook.
What do you do for fun?
I model.
Do you like video games? If so, what do you play?
Super Mario Brothers.
Are you into sports? Do you have a favourite sports team?
I love Basketball and MMA. My Favorite team for sure is DA BULLS!
What are your dreams and goals?
My dream is to pose for Maxim Magazine, which I am currently being submitted for, and to eventually start an inspirational fashion line.
Facebook or Twitter?
My Facebook pages are facebook.com/dutchessofchicago, and my Twitter is @TheDutchess3. Tweet me!
Do you have a website?facebook.com/pages/The-Dutchess-of-Chicago/368213389887359
How does someone contact you for a modelling project? How can your potential fans find you?
Email or Facebook.
*Um, yay?
Photography by: Jeremy Cheshareck
