Her Humble Roots
Melania was exposed to the world of fashion early on owing to her mother’s job at the children’s clothing manufacturer. When she was a child, Melania, along with the other children of the factory workers, participated in fashion shows that showcased the company’s children’s clothing. She is the second from the right in front in the photo, which was taken in 1977.
Her Humble Roots
Her Career Takes Off
When she was just 18 years old, Melania changed her last name from Knavs to Knauss and signed with a modeling agency in Milan. After meeting Paolo Zampolli, co-owner of Metropolitan Models, he encouraged her to move to the U.S. where he could represent her. She moved to Manhattan and shared and apartment with photographer Matthew Atanian in Union Square.
Her Career Takes Off