Model, film and television actress, social media sensation and GUESS brand ambassador. Yes, this MAXIM girl does it all…
Tell us about yourself, Miss Zita Vass.
My mother is a beauty queen and my father an aerospace engineer. I’ve been a model since I was 10 and graduated high school at 16 — I’m pretty smart, but not rocket-science smart. My friends say I’m playful, sensitive and kind and I love surfing, margaritas, and thrift shopping.
How did this MAXIM shoot go for you?
This was shot by legendary photographer Josh Ryan who was the first photographer to shoot me for GUESS. Since I had worked with Josh before I felt very excited knowing it would turn out great. Oh, and we had the best tacos for lunch.
Tacos are always important on a photo shoot. So, how did you get your start in modelling?
Well, I was in my hometown of San Diego, shovelling down a Double Double from In-N-Out Burger on New Year’s Eve, when a modelling scout approached me. I ran back home to tell my mum who was convinced it was a scam.
What is the best and worst thing about being a model?
Best part is I have the privilege to travel the world and meet some amazing people. The worst is the dietary restrictions. Sadly, the industry isn’t kind to in-between size models, aside from GUESS, which is the company that changed my life, and Sports Illustrated — which is the dream.
If you weren’t modelling, what would you be doing?
Five years ago I would have said rock star, but now it would be travelling the world researching beauty and health remedies to undo all the damage of my rock star days, which I would later apply to my future detox/beauty spa.
What is your best asset and why?
My long legs and playful spirit.
What do you do to relax?
I take relaxation very seriously. There is always a bubble bath and some tequila or rosé involved, as well as Epsom salts, healthy juices – to counter act the first beverage – and a massage. I also love a Stretch Lab in West Hollywood — I lay there like a sloth and they do all the work for me. Then I hit the Infrared Sauna, go back home and smoke a CBD joint, order some food and snuggle with my fluffy white cat Ruby.
Tell us about your experiences working in film and televison.
I love it. Lights, camera, action! It’s so fun. One time, a director asked if I was willing to streak in front of everyone for a scene in Californication and I’m a bit of an exhibitionist so that was one of the funnest times on set. It’s a few short steps towards my goal of being a Bond girl or even the female Bond. Margarita — shaken not stirred.
What’s the biggest misconception about Hollywood?
A lot of people assume everyone in L.A. is fake — there’s actually some amazing genuine people here.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
A crown-moulded castle on a cliff side with perfect waves crashing right below and a nearby jungle for hiking. Ideally, a nearby area like New York City with an epic Mexican taco joint on the corner. Wait, what? This place doesn’t exist? I’ll take Bali then.
What’s one thing you’d change about the world?
The Moon is spinning away from the earth at about the same speed of fingernail growth which means one day there’ll be no waves for surfers to ride. What will surfers do then? No, I just won’t have it. Make sure the moon stays nice and close to our planet.
Have you ever been to Australia?
I love Australia. It’s the perfect mix of debauchery and healthy recovery options for the following morning.
Besides “G’day” what other Aussie sayings do you know?
I once heard an Aussie say, “We didn’t come here to f—k spiders.” I think it means “we didn’t come here to waste time” right? I think it’s hilarious.
Yep, sure does. What’s the best way for a man to win your heart?
Easy! Just be sweet and romantic, buy me flowers or pluck one from the neighbours garden, and be willing to go to the flea market with me. And if he’s got a vintage car consider me sold!
What do you find sexy in a man?
A generous heart.
If you took MAXIM out on a date what would we do?
Well, you are made of paper, so nowhere near fire. Unless I took MAXIM the website version – then nowhere near water as you’ll short circuit! But seriously, surfing and margaritas.
Do you kiss on a first date?
Anything is possible if the chemistryis right.
What do you wear at bedtime?
An Agent Provocateur kimono robe.
Where would you like to be in five years time?
Bond girl. Didn’t you pay attention to anything I said? Or opening my health spa.
What’s next for you?
I’m starring in my first feature film, titled The French Cowboy, which is going to be like an old Hollywood western. I love old Hollywood so I can’t wait! And I made a promise to myself to travel more, so check my Instagram to see where I’m at. ■
Photographed by JOSH RYAN
Interview by SANTI PINTADO
For the full article grab the December 2017 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
