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2025-07-15 00:00:00 Avenue Magazine Meet AVA DASH, TV Star and Society and Style Darling

Meet AVA DASH, TV Star and Society and Style Darling

“Always have a good outfit on standby. You never know where this city will take you.”

Ava Dash is not just a model-pretty face. In Bravo’s “Next Gen NYC” Dash is proving she is a name that’s going to be bigger than this drama-heavy reality show. Born in New York City, Dash carries a legacy from her legendary parents hip-hop mogul Damon Dash and fashion designer Rachel Roy. Growing up in Tribeca, she has been modeling since childhood and is a published author; in 2019, she co-wrote “96 Words for Love” with her mother, donating the proceeds to support survivors of sex trafficking in India. After a stint in Los Angeles, Dash is back in Manhattan, making her mark as a model and social media influencer. And she’s gaining lots of attention on “Next Gen NYC,” where she shares insights into her close relationship with her famous father while navigating a socially-packed, high-fashion life in New York. – ALEXANDER HANKIN

How has life changed since “NextGen NYC” aired?
Now my teenage sister and her friends think I’m cool! So, to be honest, my world has flipped upside down.

What advice did your famous parents, Damon Dash and Rachel Roy, give you before filming?
My mom told me not to have too many tequila sodas while filming. Mothers always know best, but naturally, I had to learn that lesson on my own. And my dad’s advice was to have fun with it. He loves the camera, and I had such a great time filming with him. 

What has surprised you most about the show?
That I didn’t run off to Europe mid-season. I’m a Sagittarius. But on a real level, I was surprised by how raw and real some moments got. The season has so many highs and lows and I think everyone was very honest and vulnerable.

“My Mom taught me how to dress like I’m going somewhere important, even when I’m just running errands.”

Any misconceptions about you from the show you want to clear up? There are definitely misconceptions about me. I have a very chill personality, which can sometimes be misunderstood, especially in a group full of big personalities. When things start to feel performative, I’d rather remove myself than force something that doesn’t feel genuine. That’s how I protect my peace. I’d rather focus on work, growth, and surrounding myself with people who are kind, trustworthy and real.

Your parents are style Icons in their own right. 
My Mom taught me how to dress like I’m going somewhere important, even when I’m just running errands. My sister and I were never allowed to wear sweats or leggings on a plane, things like that. My Dad instilled in me that confidence can make anything look good.

What’s the best piece of advice you received lately? 
It’s never easy to see negative stories in the press or the way that people I know and thought I was friends with can perpetuate inaccurate narratives. A good friend sent me this quote, which I thought was beautiful: “Someone despises me. That’s their problem. Mine: not to do or say anything despicable. Someone hates me. Their problem. Mine: to be patient and cheerful with everyone, including them. Ready to show them their mistake. Not spitefully, or to show off my own self-control, but in an honest, upright way.” – Marcus Aurelius.

What’s one thing every New Yorker should know?
Always have a good outfit on standby. You never know where this city will take you.

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