Daring to Dream- One city girl’s passion for life lands her in POSES.

Meet Das Harris. A petite, bubbly, charismatic eye candy dazzling the lenses and fashion popups of St. Louis. A vibrant voguer with a heart of gold. I catch a chat with the candid catwalker about her journey in real time.

Fashion and beauty model Dasia “Das” Harris has the looks of the high-end fashion faces, but her humble beginnings began with an inspirational icon. “My favorite muse and musician of all time is Janet Jackson.”, says the north St. Louis native. “Ever since I saw her “Rhythm Nation” music video, her creativity and outfits, I was like “yea I love her.” Inspired by the icon’s freeform and daring expression, this budding poser became determined to dream.

While growing up in the inner city, the Mehlville High alum found her “inner spark” in some of the music industry’s most well-known names such as Christina Aguilera and Ashanti. The model also admires legendary models Naomi Campbell, Bella Hadid, and the late singer and actress, Esther “Baby Esther” Jones. “She was the inspiration behind Betty Boop. She always wore the finger waves.”, shares Harris. “I also love Eva Marcille. I watch and learn from so many different models, and I thought “If they can do it, I can too.”

Das Harris’ style and personality can be described as “genuine and authentic.” “I want my supporters to get the vibe of genuineness and realism.” Harris’ most memorable shoot was a birthday shoot in 2023. “I wanted to do a renaissance theme. So, I got in contact with Aaron Johnson of Dopeness Visuals, we talked about my concept and made it happen. Bringing that to life inspired me so much and also got me nominated for “Model of the Year” for the first time with St. Louis Arts & Entertainment Awards. After that, things just took off.” She has also been featured in various fashion shows and popups, brand shoots, and recently Tower Grove Park’s annual Festival of Nations.

The 5’9″ artist says her biggest personal inspiration would have to be her late great-grandmother. “My granny became a pastor at around age 21. She was a God-fearing woman and always spoke positive affirmations over my life.”, explains Das. “She would find people in the Bible whose story was similar to mine. Always uplifted me and encouraged me to use my gift.”

Harris is also a published writer on the popular app Wattpad. She is currently working on upcoming projects and bookings. “In five years, I see myself as someone who is very confident in herself. Someone who is surer of herself than she is now.” The fashionista also looks forward to more equality, support, and genuine love within the local art community. “I believe in healthy competition, but if everyone would focus on competing with themselves and not each other, things would be so much better.” Sticking to her guns and goal list, this courageous damsel is striking the iron while its hot. Every strut is a must!

“What defines you is not who you are on camera, but who you are in real life. Let your inner you shine. YOU are what makes you special.” -Das Harris

IG: @das._.mode