A chance meeting with a friend of a modeling scout at East Side Mario's (where Alana was a waitress) pointed this willowy beauty, born June 6, 1987 in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, toward a career in fashion. Shortly after e-mailing a few of her prom photos, Alana walked Toronto's runways, and before long caught the attention of the highly selective Supreme Management in New York.

In Fall 2006, WWD and Style.com took note of the stunner after she debuted on the spring runways for Proenza Schouler, Dolce & Gabbana, and Chanel. The following season, Alana earned Bryant Park veteran status having walked for more than 50 designers. Success followed her off the runway as well: Alana's dreamy international look gives her great editorial appeal and regularly lands her on the pages of Vogue Italia, Numéro, and i-D.

But through it all, Zimmer remains as grounded as ever. Before recently moving to New York, she commuted to work from Canada on a one-hour flight when necessary. She maintains her Zen-like vibe on and off the job with yoga, running, and knitting—a talent she picked up while working in a nursing home.