Founder and CEO of TRUE Model Management, Dale Noelle is one of the most influential names when it comes to transformation and inclusion in the fashion industry. Her career started early in childhood, working alongside her father in clothing factories, and evolved through multiple roles in the industry — from production manager to fit model for brands like Oscar de la Renta, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger.
After more than 20 years working as a model, she recognized the need to create an agency that truly represents the diversity that exists in the world. That’s how TRUE was born — a company that connects talent of all sizes, ages, ethnicities, and genders with leading brands such as DKNY, GAP, Victoria’s Secret, and many others.
Beyond leading TRUE, Dale is also engaged in education, health coaching, and philanthropy, always advocating for inclusion, local production, and positive body image. We spoke with her about her personal journey, the challenges of entrepreneurship, the evolution of diversity in fashion, and the importance of building a more inclusive and conscious industry.
How do you see the evolution of inclusivity in the fashion industry, and how has TRUE contributed to this shift?
Witnessing the evolution of inclusivity in the fashion industry has been both refreshing and rewarding. While fashion was traditionally focused on narrow standards of beauty, the fashion/modeling industry standards are continuously evolving.
There has been a strong push to celebrate diversity in all its forms—whether it’s body size, gender, race, abilities and/or age.
At TRUE Model Management, we created an environment that embraces and supports a wide range of beauty by scouting, developing and promoting talent of all types, long before it became a popular trend.
As a model since the early ’90s, I’ve experienced the shift from the unattainable, cookie-cutter images that dominated the industry to a more inclusive representation of real people.
Today, models have purpose and meaning and many strive to be role models. TRUE has always reflected my life and values; I’ve built friendships with individuals of all ethnicities and body types, and I’ve worked to empower models.
My goal is to help models be the best version of themselves, to gain confidence and achieve financial independence. This commitment to independence and inclusivity is at the heart of what we do at TRUE.
What lessons did Dale Noelle Weil learn from her early experiences in modeling?
From my early experiences in modeling, I learned the value of professionalism, creativity, persistence and resilience. My advice is to have a clear vision and build strong relationships while educating others to be excited about bringing the mission to life.
Balancing growth and quality, managing time effectively and addressing burnout are all vital lessons I’ve learned and I continually strive to improve these skills.
Ultimately, providing exceptional service at competitive rates has been key to thriving in challenging markets.
What was the biggest challenge in establishing and expanding TRUE Model Management?
Establishing and expanding TRUE Model Management has been a demanding journey. As a visionary, I excel at generating innovative ideas, yet finding the time and resources to implement them effectively is challenging.
Building and supporting a strong team requires great effort and patience and having launched TRUE as an extension of my personal modeling business, I initially struggled to let go of responsibilities and delegate tasks effectively.
Attracting and retaining top talent and clients is essential in sustaining our business, and while it is an ongoing and challenging endeavor, we have been fortunate that our unique approaches and capabilities have afforded us great successes.
One challenge that I take very seriously and expend a lot of effort is supporting and protecting models and their businesses.
This commitment drives me to help our models not only thrive in their careers but also feel valued and secure in an industry that is extremely competitive and sometimes harsh.
What are your thoughts about the New York Fashion Workers Act?
I find the version of the Fashion Workers Act passed by Governor Kathy Hochul in December 2024 to be disappointingly vague and ineffective. It lacks clear definitions, places excessive burdens and penalties on managers for actions beyond their control and fails to establish essential processes or payment protections. It lacks adequate enforcement mechanisms and does not hold all wrongdoers accountable, particularly concerning timely payments.
Having worked as an independent model, an agency-represented model, a model manager and a brand client in the industry, I have witnessed firsthand how broken this system can be.
I envision a future where models, managers, brand clients and advocacy groups unite and collaborate as a cohesive team to help guide legislators to improve the law.
While it is essential to penalize wrongdoers for harmful actions, it is unfortunate that this legislation may inadvertently lead to frivolous lawsuits against reputable managers who already uphold standards that exceed the new legal requirements.
This challenge has motivated me to reconnect with policymakers and leaders of advocacy groups to push for a version of the law that truly protects workers, addresses existing loopholes that jeopardize their safety and establishes stronger and equitable regulations to safeguard models’ livelihoods.
For more information and/or to voice your concerns and ideas about the NY Fashion Workers Act, please email me at [email protected].
How has the rise of social media and digital influencers changed the modeling industry, and how does TRUE adapt to these transformations?
Social media and digital influencers have transformed the modeling industry and created a new category of business. In the past, models were only seen in shows and as pretty faces in magazines, but now they are more visible and accessible than ever before.
Social media introduced new ways for models to build personal brands and connect directly with their audiences.
New revenues of income were created and these opportunities have empowered model influencers to showcase their unique identities beyond just their looks.
At TRUE, we’ve been ahead of the curve when it comes to embracing some innovations. We started booking social media jobs for our models long before it became standard to label sponsored content or when the term “social influencer” became popular.
We work closely with digital influencers and support models who bring authenticity, personality, relatability and purpose to their work.
Before founding TRUE, I was approached by a major fashion brand in the early 1990s to scan my body/likeness, which sparked an ongoing conversation about digital representation.
TRUE and I have been at the forefront of testing innovations and exploring digital assets and AI in the industry.
While technology brings exciting opportunities, TRUE has always been concerned about the ethical use of AI and digital likenesses.
We are committed to educating models and the public about its applications and strive to ensure our talent not only adapts to changes but thrives.
We engage with industry leaders and lawmakers and are always striving to protect models’ rights and ensure the integrity of their work with appropriate compensation and without exploitation.
TRUE is committed to creating a supportive environment where our talent can thrive and benefit from the industry’s growth.
What do you look for in a model when selecting talent for TRUE? Are there specific qualities that stand out in today’s industry?
At TRUE, we seek individuals with integrity, a solid work ethic, authenticity, confidence and positive energy.
While clients dictate specific booking requirements, we are particularly drawn to those who are genuine, prepared and have a strong sense of self. I am happy that today’s industry values personality, versatility and presence over perceived perfection.
We appreciate models who radiate from the inside out—those who arrive on time, ask insightful questions, take direction well and embody health, professionalism and uniqueness.
TRUE has built strong relationships with major brands like Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger. What is the key to maintaining these partnerships?
The foundation of TRUE’s long-term partnerships is built on trust, shared values, industry expertise, attention to details, innovation and excellent service.
Our clients know that TRUE is dedicated to hard work and going above and beyond to deliver authentic representation – not just meeting diversity quotas but providing talent that aligns with their vision and resonates with today’s consumers.
We listen carefully, remain flexible and always strive to make our clients’ lives easier. Our commitment to integrity, consistency and a collaborative mindset has enabled us to build relationships where everyone wins.
While maintaining strong relationships with such major brands, how do you also find time to take care of yourself and stay grounded?
Prioritizing self-care while managing TRUE Model Management is a challenge, but I strive to infuse joy and fulfillment into my work, minimizing the need for extensive self-care outside of it. I strive to incorporate activities I enjoy into events that engage our modeling/fashion community.
I frequently embrace multitasking as a way to enhance my productivity and maximize the benefits of my efforts. By seamlessly integrating movement into my daily activities—whether it’s walking while talking in a meeting, working at my standing desk while stretching, opting for stairs instead of elevators, or carrying groceries home rather than choosing delivery – I amplify my results.
This coordinated approach not only keeps me active but also allows me to experience multiple positive outcomes from my efforts/
Being intentional about blending wellness into my daily rhythm is key. I carve out quality time with family and friends, as they keep me grounded. Nature plays a significant role in my reset routine too; I love taking walks through Central Park and swimming in the ocean.
Additionally, I practice deep breathing, yoga and short meditations throughout the week to stay centered and present, especially during high-stress moments.
Many parts of business are sources of frustration but I try to make work fun and nourishing—whether it’s joining our models for fitness classes or participating in events such as boxing classes and the TD’s 5 Boro Bike Tour around New York City. These experiences not only feed my soul and strengthen my body but also enhance the sense of community we are building at TRUE.
Wellness seems to be an important part of your lifestyle—how do you see it evolving into something bigger in your work or brand?
Absolutely – striving for a state of wellbeing has always been a core part of who I am. From my time as a fit model to now as a business owner, I’ve seen how physical, emotional and mental wellness directly affects confidence, performance and overall happiness.
At TRUE, wellness is already woven into how we care for and develop our talent, but I see it expanding into a larger movement – one that empowers people inside and outside the industry to prioritize their health in a sustainable, holistic way. I’m exploring programs, partnerships and educational tools to support that mission.
Beyond fashion, you are also an educator, health coach, and philanthropist. How do these roles influence your approach to business?
These roles have made me more well-rounded and deeply attuned to people’s needs, goals and well-being. I view my work as building long-term relationships rather than just business transactions, and that philosophy is ingrained in everything we do at TRUE.
I invest in those who I genuinely believe in and want to collaborate with, often prioritizing opportunities that serve a greater good over short-term financial gains.
Our mission has always centered on empowering models beyond their roles with brands—supporting their overall growth, health and sense of purpose. To further this commitment, we are reigniting TRUE’s grassroots charitable division, TRUECares.
As a board member of the Miss New York / Miss America Organization and a volunteer for empowerment initiatives such as Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization, what role do you think fashion plays in promoting women’s leadership and empowerment?
Fashion is a powerful tool for storytelling, self- transformation and can elevate women’s voices and confidence. Fashion can challenge stereotypes and enable self-expression while creating opportunities for economic and social advancement.
My experience as part of Miss America New York profoundly reshaped my understanding of the women involved; I discovered that the organization emphasizes education, service and leadership far more than I had initially realized.
Fashion plays a crucial role in boosting confidence and visibility, and when used intentionally, it can portray women as multifaceted leaders who embody strength and style.
By thoughtfully curating their fashion choices, women can effectively communicate their values, assert their presence and inspire others. Fashion can be a tool in redefining what it means to be a leader in today’s world.
Were there any mentors or role models in your early years who influenced your approach to business or leadership? What was your father’s style in business?
My father and grandmother were my earliest and biggest influences. They taught me the value of hard work, resourcefulness and integrity.
My dad’s direct, inventive and transparent style in business definitely shaped my own leadership approach, while my grandmother’s creativity and grit showed me how to navigate challenges with resilience.
Though I didn’t have formal business mentors, I absorbed life lessons from them and later modeled professional behavior after successful peers and colleagues in the fashion world – especially the seasoned models I worked alongside at top fashion houses.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
I would advise my younger self to trust your instincts and follow your passions. Don’t allow fear or the opinions of others to cloud your vision or extinguish your enthusiasm – if you are truly passionate about something, pursue it with unwavering commitment.
The journey may be challenging at times, but by staying true to your values and persevering through the highs and lows, you will create something truly meaningful. Remember, if you can dream it, you can achieve it.”
Out of everything you’ve accomplished in your career, what has been the most rewarding part?
Among all my accomplishments, the most rewarding aspect of my career is receiving heartfelt feedback from models about the positive impacts I’ve had on their lives.
When they share stories of how I’ve helped them build confidence, find the courage to pursue their dreams, break free from toxic relationships, achieve financial independence, or even find the strength to transform their lives, it brings me immense fulfillment.
These moments serve as powerful reminders of why I put in so much hard work and effort into my job every day, reinforcing my commitment to making meaningful differences in the lives of others.
