[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”27623″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Our interview with Bulgarian born fashion designer, model, and environmentalist Hari Tahov. His beachy-fun colorful men’s sportswear collection reflects his love for the ocean which is available online. Hari’s coveted fashion designs are adorning Europe’s lucky and affluently elite. He has taken his love and understanding of precious crystals and created a jewelry collection that sold out his first season’s collection. Using his fashions in fine art photography, Hari works closely with critically acclaimed photographer Joe Simpson. Hari is an ambassador and a hands-on volunteer for ProjectSaveOurSurf.org a non-profit organization dedicated to the clean-up of the world’s tainted waters. When he’s not designing or showing fashions you will find him surfing and teaching kids about the ocean conservation, beaches and their environment.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”27624″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Hi Hari, please tell us a little about you?
I’m Haralambi Tahov from Sofia, Bulgaria. I’m a model, designer and filmmaker. I left Sofia at a young age for better educational opportunities in Istanbul. After four years there, I first moved to Virginia at 17yo to continue my high school studies at a cheistian college. From there, I moved to Los Angeles studying fashion design at FIDM for one year before I took on a different venture. I am currently finishing up my coursework for my Bachelor of Science in Film Production at the alps Angeles Film School.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Different, Openminded, Resourceful
Who is your role model?
My role models are my parents. They created Julian Tahov Design, tahov.com and became the biggest club designers in The Balkans with more than 200 places built and designed by them around the world.
How did you get started in modeling?
I started modeling by doing photo shoots in college on the side with professional magazine photographers. They helped me a lot to build an image for myself. That’s when I found Instagram, since before that I didn’t have any professional photography done.
How has modeling changed your life?
It gave me a lot of courage to be front of the camera because I’m really shy and didn’t know I got any looks as a fashion model. I’ve also had the opportunity to connect with and meet so many incredible and inspiring people that would not have been possible without modeling. I feel like God directed me to begin, and I’ve felt so blessed ever since.
What modeling projects you have done and which ones are still on your bucket list?
I shot in Joshua Tree in 2017 for a photo book which was a place I heard about and wanted to visit even when I was in Istanbul, so that was a dream. I recently walked the runway for the first time and looking forward to LA and NY Fashion Week. Still on my bucket list though is shooting at the Grand Canyon – it’s so beautiful.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Collaborating!! Getting to meet different people with different backgrounds and getting the opportunity to learn from successful people in the industry. Creating connections which last is very important so I’m always engaged with my friends and supporters and I love staying connected.
The most important thing when you are shooting is?
The most important thing in photo shoots is your eyes as it gives life to the picture. If it’s not eyes you see, it’s the pose and everything else is the photographers work.
What’s your advice for the newer models?
Network and discover to be discovered.
Who are some of your favorite models and designers?
Models I never looked at many but I’m inspired by Tyra Banks as I watched Americas Next Top Model for quite a while. My favorite Designer is Iris Van Herpen. Iris creates one of a kind designs as they are 3D printed and quite revolutionary.
Now tell us about your experience as a Fashion designer?
As a fashion designer I started drawing in high school. I drew my inspiration from nature and spirituality. I took on imprinting images of nature and colors into textiles. I went to college because I wanted to learn how to create garments from my fabrics. I found it very restricting and boring at school and this made me quit three months before graduating. Instead, I started my own fashion line called under my name, which is now online as haritahovshop. Many of my friends helped me in the creation and manifestation of my project which I am truly grateful for. As a result I was recently named 2018’s youngest most talented designer in Bulgaria and getting that recognition from my country meant so much.
How was working with critically acclaimed photographer Joe Simpson?
Working with Joe was life changing. He upped my game as a model and he has given me great insight into the modeling industry. I am very grateful and inspired by him and his photographic genius.
How would you explain your fashion style?
Since I was young my parents were really into fashion and the importance of how we present ourselves. Ironically, due to my parents more professional business style I developed a casual style which still retains a presentable elegance.
How would your best friend describe you?
I hope kind, light hearted, and loyal
What is your own definition of happiness?
Keep a clean positive mind, for a clean and positive life. We are the vibration we give. The more love and happiness we give out, the more good happens to us and the world around us.
How is a normal day in your life?
A normal day of my life is focused around my studies and social media (as a model it’s important for visibility). I go to the gym, school, events, and I try to network as much as possible so I can collaborate as much as possible.
What is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
A perfect Sunday is waking up to go to my local church, Mosaic Hollywood. Then afterwards I go to the Vegan Street Fair in North Hollywood. Afterwards I hike or I get prepared to go to an event, and finishing with a movie at the end of the night.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to meet the scientist Nicola Tesla. Tesla’s mind birthed so much of the technology which we now use globally on a daily basis, it’s astounding.
What is your favorite healthy food?
My favorite healthy food is Vegan yoghurt.
And your favorite cheat food?
My favorite chest food is Vegan Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich from Doomies.
Best advice ever given?
Think about how you spend your time, it’s precious. Love it and cherish it.
Do you support any charity?
I love earth and supporting Project Save our Surf in the past one and a half years has been a wonderful experience. We go once a month to clean the beaches and organize the group cleanups. We are all people who care for the environment and we always have a big turnout.
What’s next for Hari Tahov in 2019?
I will be coming up with a new collection and release of my jewelry designs. I also begin production of a couple short films in the second half of the year.
Favorite song? Why?
California Dreamin is my favorite song because I dreamed to be in California and now I’m here.
What music do you like?
I love house, electric hip-hop, and any classical. I don’t like singing but there are some vintage hits and french music I love and would listen to any time.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media is a revolutionary way to connect all people and entities on this planet and it has great power over the human psyche.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram – @haritahov
Facebook – @haritahov
Quote: “Mind over matter.” I heard this quote and now it gives me self esteem every time material things hold me back.
Favorite Singer/Artist: Queen
Movie: The Congress
Travel Destination: Richat Structure also called the Eye of Sahara. I’m obsessed with this place because I dreamed about it and surprisingly when I was scrolling on google maps I found it.
Sports Team: I’m not a huge sports fan but I have to go for the home team Lakers and Rams.
Tv Show: I’ve been huge fan of “The Flash”.
Book: I have a lot of science books and my favorite one I love is the Elements Book.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Photo Credit:
Cover photo – Joe Simpson
Color – Rodin Eckenroth[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
