Sorry Calvin. Not on Shabbat

April 26, 2007 - 3:00 PM by Stephanie

She models for French Connection, Calvin Klein, Yves Saint Laurent, Ralph Lauren and… okay you’ve got the picture.

But not on Shabbat (Sabbath). And only after she has recited her morning prayers. And no underwear or swimsuit shoots. And thanks but no thanks to the shrimp cocktail. Even if it means going hungry all day.

23-year-old Israeli supermodel Chava Mond might be the only religious (Jewish) supermodel to hit the runways. But it isn’t slowing her down and she feels good about her career and her life choices – she maintains strict boundaries for herself and is enjoying the ride while it lasts.

This interview gives a glimpse into Mond’s world, highlighting her efforts at maintaining balance in sometimes sticky situations.

Does the society you come from accept your lifestyle and the fact that you are a top model?

“My friends obviously do. But I get a lot of negative responses. At first I used to take offense, but I got used to it. To say “she isn’t religious” is easy, but it stems from lack of understanding. They don’t know what it’s like to turn down a high paying campaign because I don’t model on Shabbat, and when everyone eats I don’t touch a thing all day because it’s not kosher.”

Ouch!

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