Life rarely follows the script, but Miss South Carolina USA 2026 has learned to meet every twist with grace and grit
BY JENNIFER VIKSE • PHOTO COURTESY OF POSH MODELS
INDUSTRY: How did you get started modeling?
VICTORIA VESCE: I started modeling after years of dancing and performing, but my journey has been anything but traditional. I went from dancing professionally for the Charlotte Hornets to law school, surviving a brain tumor, and eventually finding my way back in front of the camera. Modeling became part of my reinvention and has taken me places I never expected.
IM: Tell us about some gigs you’ve done.
VV: One of my biggest modeling milestones was being part of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit in 2022. I’ve also worked on swimwear, fitness, beauty, lifestyle, and travel campaigns, walked in fashion shows, and created content with hotels and brands around the world. Most recently, I became Miss South Carolina USA 2026 and am preparing to compete at Miss USA!
IM: What is your favorite thing about the summer season?
VV: Everything! I’m happiest near the water, whether that’s boating, traveling somewhere tropical, or spending a summer day on the coast with my dogs. I also love how social summer feels. There’s always somewhere to go and something happening.
IM: Does your background influence your look?
VV: Definitely! I’m Italian-American, and I think my dark features and naturally more Mediterranean look have always influenced how I see beauty and style. I love timeless, feminine beauty, but I also have a sporty side from my background as a professional dancer and fitness instructor.
IM: Where are you currently living?
VV: I split my time between Charleston, South Carolina, and West Palm Beach, Florida, with frequent trips to New York City for work.
IM: Tell us about your career.
VV: My career is a little unconventional, and I love that about it. I have a law degree, but today my work spans modeling, media, travel content, wellness, and entrepreneurship. I produce large-scale wellness events that bring communities together through fitness and real-life connection, teach Pilates, create travel and lifestyle content, and am currently preparing for Miss USA.
IM: What do you hope for your future?
VV: I hope to build a life and career that proves you never have to put yourself in one box. I want to grow my wellness and community initiatives nationally, continue working in television and media, travel the world, and use the Miss USA platform to create experiences that make people feel more connected. And one day, I’d love a family of my own, preferably with enough land for even more dogs!
IM: What are a few of your favorite things?
VV: My three dogs, traveling somewhere I’ve never been, Pilates, being on the water, a really good açai bowl, vintage-inspired fashion, wellness experiences, and planning events that bring people together.
IM: How would you describe your personality in three words?
VV: Resilient, adventurous, and compassionate.
VICTORIA VESCE — Age: 33 · Height: 5’8” · Weight: 120 lbs · Measurements: 34-24-34 · Hair: Brown · Eyes: Brown
Victoria Vesce — @victoriavesce