TIA TILLMAN

REDEFINING BEAUTY, ONE RUNWAY AT A TIME

Affectionately known in the industry as Tia Tillman, Rhatia Tillman has carved out a remarkable path in the beauty and fashion world. This Atlanta-based plus-size model has spent the last seven years dazzling on runways and collaborating with top-tier boutiques, earning features in several prestigious magazines. Her portfolio includes walking in the iconic New York Fashion Week and countless shows in her hometown of Atlanta.

Tia's modeling roots trace back to her childhood, where she first posed for The Children’s Place before signing with the renowned Wilhelmina Modeling Agency. While she paused her career to embrace motherhood, her passion for the industry never waned. Today, Tia is not only a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, but she’s also living her dream as a model—something that still amazes her.

Tia attributes much of her professional success to the training she received from Diva Day International under the guidance of MsNickee Mack. Eager to continuously hone her craft, she takes runway classes to ensure she remains at the top of her game.

Looking to the future, Tia aspires to work with beauty giants like Danessa Myricks, Sephora, and Fenty Beauty. Her ultimate ambition is to be featured in a major beauty or clothing campaign, where her vibrant personality and undeniable talent can continue to shine.

QSM: From posing for The Children's Place to walking in New York Fashion Week, your journey is truly inspiring. What moment in your career has been the most surreal or rewarding so far?

Tia: So far in my career, the most rewarding piece of it all has been expressing myself through my love for fashion. It’s a way for me to tell my story. 

QSM: After taking a break from modeling to embrace motherhood, what was it like stepping back into the industry, and how has your perspective shifted since becoming a mother and grandmother?

Tia: After stepping back into the industry, I had to rediscover myself. In a sense I lost a little of who I was because my attention was shifted to my new title of being a mother. Dealing with the changes of my body and mindset had to be reprogrammed. My perspective has since shifted since becoming a mother and grandmother because my kids looked at me as a role model and I had to show them that no matter what someone else says, you have to have confidence within yourself no matter the circumstance you are facing.

QSM: What would you say is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned during your journey so far?

Tia: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is to never give up on my dreams and always pursue what I want out of life no matter my age.

QSM: Runway classes continue to play a role in your professional growth. How do you keep pushing yourself to stay at the top of your game, and what advice do you have for aspiring models looking to break into the industry?

Tia: I constantly invest in myself. I take notes from others because there is nothing wrong with wanting to improve your craft. The best advice I have is to invest in yourself. 

QSM: As someone with a strong connection to both Atlanta and New York, how have these two fashion hubs influenced your style and approach to modeling?

Tia: New York is the fashion capital of the world. It allows you to be free from what others consider too much. You can be free to really express your passion with fashion. I make the world my runway. 

QSM: You’ve mentioned wanting to work with beauty giants like Danessa Myricks, Sephora, and Fenty Beauty. What draws you to these brands, and how do you see yourself making an impact in the beauty industry?

Tia: What draws me to these brands is their love and dedication to the products that they put out. I love how my skin glows, my makeup turns out flawless, they make products for all skin types and all ages. I see myself making an impact in the beauty industry by being my authentic self. Creatively beautiful!! 

QSM: Looking ahead, what’s your ultimate dream collaboration or campaign, and what message would you want to send to the world through your work?

Tia: My ultimate dream campaign would be to work with someone who cares about inclusivity. You have to look at people as a human being, not a dollar sign. I want the world to see that we are all beautiful and important.

Credits:

Photography by @Rjonesphotography 

Styled by LC @lcessories

Hair Stylist: @Auriellej_

Makeup Artist: @beautymarksofatlanta