Multihyphenate Brad Cozza is using his knowledge of fashion, food, and real estate to leave his mark on Miami.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Suit Jacket, Gucci. Bal Harbour Shops, 305-868-6504; Dress Shirt, Prada. Bal Harbour Shops, 305-864-9111; Pocket Square, Hermès. 175 NE 40th St., Miami, 305-868-0118
How were you discovered?
I went to Model Search America, your traditional discovery weekend convention. I was discovered by Ford, and then I switched over to Major Model Management. I was booking ads [for] Tommy Hilfiger and Levi’s, but living on a couch. I had a degree in business management from Florida Gulf Coast [University]. My father said, “Why don’t you put your education to use?” So I got a real estate license and started going between Fort Myers and Miami.
Who is your ultimate model idol?
How could you not say Gisele? [Also] I’d say Nina Agdal, who actually got her start in Miami.
You’re also an investor in Haven. What’s your food philosophy?
An amazing dish doesn’t have to have expensive ingredients or be named something you can’t pronounce. I learned that from chef Todd Erickson. It’s true knowledge of flavors that separates good food from fantastic food.
How would you define your personal style?
Monday through Friday at the office, I’m very business professional. And I admit I’m [into] labels: Versace or Hugo Boss pants, and Dolce & Gabbana or Prada shirts.
How do you place Miami in terms of the fashion world?
Miami always has and always will be a European catalog powerhouse. When you look at cities like Milan, Paris, and London, Miami is always mentioned alongside them—that will only get stronger.
Where do you most like to travel?
Nothing beats Milan. I also love Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth [Australia]—just to go to the wildlife refuges and see dingos and wombats.
By your bed, you keep...
It’s a massive stack of magazines—from Real Estate Investor for research, to Vogue for men’s trends, to a ton of food magazines. I’m always learning, so it’s simultaneously leisure and constructive reading.
Haven, 1237 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, 305-987-8885; Evolution Model Management, 407 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, 305-484-2039
