In conversation
with Megan Puleri
by Julieta Miquelarena
Megan Puleri: A Model’s Journey
In the fast-paced world of fashion modelling, Megan Puleri’s story stands out as both inspiring and profoundly relatable. Growing up in New Albany, Ohio, Megan was the quintessential “lengthy-goofy introverted-extrovert,” as she describes herself, immersed in sports and creative pursuits rather than dreaming of runways.
Her parents, working in fashion, saw the potential that Megan herself hadn't considered, leading her from playing soccer and lacrosse to stepping onto her first runway for a local boutique. This serendipitous start in a town close to the headquarters of Limited Brands provided unexpected opportunities, including working with giants like Victoria's Secret and Abercrombie.
Megan’s big break came when she walked into the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, an experience she describes as transformative. “Walking at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show gave me the confidence to know I could achieve anything I set my mind to,” Megan recalls. Inspired by models like Karlie Kloss, Megan saw in them a reflection of herself—tall, slender, and brimming with potential. Closing the Pink segment of the show alongside stars like Selena Gomez and Taylor Hill was a pinnacle moment, marking the achievement of her greatest goal in modelling.
However, Megan’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. The glamour of modelling often masks the reality of constant travel, loneliness, and the emotional toll of frequent rejection. “The challenges in modeling are real and intense,” Megan admits. Her time alone in Tokyo stands out as a moment of intense personal highs and lows, shaping her into a more assertive and self-assured individual. Through these experiences, Megan has embraced the unpredictability of her career, finding that each low prepared her for subsequent highs.
Beyond the runway, Megan has grappled with more personal challenges, particularly concerning mental health. Her battle with anxiety and depression has been a long-standing issue, one exacerbated by the pressures of her profession. “I have been on antidepressants most of my life; I decided three years ago I wanted to try a different approach,” she shares. This decision marked the beginning of a slow and challenging process to find balance and wellness without the crutch of medication.
Today, Megan finds solace in her support system—her partner, her puppy Freddie, and a close circle of family and friends. Cooking, art, and nature are her sanctuaries, helping her maintain equilibrium in a tumultuous world. With a move to Los Angeles, Megan is not only exploring new professional avenues in acting and photography but also expanding her horizons in the art world and continuing to build her portfolio of loyal clients.
Looking forward, Megan is focused on manifesting a life rich with love, happiness, and fulfilment, surrounded by good food and good people. Her journey from a small-town girl to a global fashion model and beyond is a compelling narrative of resilience, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.