At 60 years old, Yazemeenah Rossi is redefining perceptions of age, beauty, and confidence. A grandmother who proudly embraces her natural silver hair, she remains deeply passionate about her work as a model and photographer. Her secret? A holistic approach to life, including a balanced diet, yoga, and unapologetic self-expression – which, for her, includes openly celebrating her sexuality.
Nature, Simplicity, and Artistic Freedom
In her serene Malibu studio, Rossi’s connection to nature is evident. The space, adorned with crystals and rocks, is filled with meditative music, offering a glimpse into her tranquil yet vibrant lifestyle. Without a TV to distract her, Rossi creates an atmosphere of mindfulness and creativity. “Every day is a blessing,” she says, inviting her guests to sit barefoot on the floor while she serves chai in a ceramic mug she crafted during her New York days.
Her life philosophy is one of freedom and fulfillment. After two divorces, Rossi has found peace in being single, describing her love for life itself: “I’m in love, but without a subject. People see that in me, even if they don’t know my story. It inspires them to seek their own path.”
Breaking Stereotypes in Fashion
Defying age norms in the youth-obsessed fashion industry, Rossi continues to embrace her natural beauty and individuality. Earlier this year, she photographed herself in lingerie for New York designers Land of Women. Her raw, unedited images were so powerful that the brand featured her in their summer swimwear campaign. Her Instagram following exploded overnight, jumping from 1,000 to over 26,000, and she’s since become a symbol of authenticity and confidence.
Her signature white hair, wrinkles, and unapologetic embrace of aging challenge industry standards. “This is simply who I am,” Rossi says, rejecting societal pressure to conform. Her refusal to dye her hair or undergo significant cosmetic alterations has cost her lucrative opportunities, but she remains steadfast: “Do not destroy your capital. Take advantage of how you are.”
A Journey Rooted in Resilience
Born in Corsica in 1955, Rossi was raised by her grandparents in a humble home without running water or electricity. Her childhood memories of washing in the river and her grandparents’ beachside restaurant shaped her connection to nature. At 11, she received her first camera, sparking a lifelong passion for photography. However, her teenage years were tumultuous; she became pregnant at 16 and entered an early marriage that left her feeling trapped.
By 28, Rossi chose to prioritize her happiness, divorcing and entering the fashion world. Her career began humbly, working as a fittings model for iconic brands like Hermès and YSL. Despite the challenges, she persevered, guided by her belief that making the right choices attracts opportunity: “When you make the right choice, the universe brings.”
A Bold Vision for Aging and Empowerment
Rossi views her work not just as modeling but as a platform for inspiring others. Her smooth, radiant skin reflects her commitment to self-care, while her imperfections – proudly displayed – highlight her inner confidence. “Sexy means alive,” she says, challenging stereotypes about older women. She criticizes the lack of representation of women her age in high fashion, urging the industry to acknowledge its older demographic.
Her personal life is equally unconventional. Rossi embraces her sexuality as a source of vitality and empowerment. “Women feel guilty about pleasure,” she says, encouraging others to shed inhibitions. Her relationships, though short, have enriched her sense of self. She laughs at the double standard that labels older women as “cougars” while offering no equivalent term for men.
Looking Ahead with Passion
Now 61, Rossi’s ambitions extend beyond modeling. With recent projects for brands like Bellevue Collection and KappAhl, she is also pursuing acting classes, aiming to bring her authentic self to the screen. “This is not about ego or power,” she explains. “It’s about being free.”
For Yazemeenah Rossi, life is an ongoing journey of discovery and self-expression, proving that beauty, passion, and vitality have no expiration date.