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It’s hard to pinpoint the most striking thing about Gina Grant.

The 36-year-old Zumba superstar is a mother of four — with rock-solid abs (yeah, life’s not fair). Along with her lean, sculpted body, the natural beauty boasts a sparkling, winning smile, flawless caramel skin and the most envied hair. That hair! Long, perfectly coiled curls that maintain bounce and body, even through sweat-sopping Zumba classes.

Her style? Casually pulled together with a dash of sexy. Her life? Juggling between Zumba engagements and her family, it’s pretty hectic. Yet it’s Gina’s I-can-rock-it attitude — no matter what she’s doing in whatever clothes she’s wearing — that stands out the most. And while she’s no stranger to cameras and crowds, Gina is as down-to-earth as the day she met Zumba apparel creative director Melanie Canavero 10 years ago.

“I was working at a spa, and Gina came in. We hit it off like old friends,” Canevaro says. “She’s still the same today. The kind of girl you can talk to about anything and always count on for advice, with zero judgment.”

Z-LIFE caught up with Gina on a rare day off as she rummaged through her closet and chatted about her family, beauty regimen, indulgences — and a secret about herself.

Z: Those close to you say that you have amazing style, which is funny because you’re always seen sporting workout attire.

G: It’s true. I’m in my workout clothes almost every single day, unless I’m at home or the airport.

Z: Even so, you always manage to work it.

G: Thanks! First, I always make sure I’m comfortable. After that, I have to feel sexy. If I don’t, I’ll destroy it, meaning I’ll cut up my shirt and find a way to make it look hot. I have no problems putting scissors to my clothes. I actually travel with a pair.

Z: People, including Melanie [Canevaro], describe your style as “urban-sexy.” How do you define it?

G: It depends on where I am and the mood I’m feeling. Sometimes I like to be sexier, and other times I prefer more comfort. My personal style isn’t just defined by one thing. But since I can remember, I’ve always danced. So when I was little, I wanted shimmery tights, the belted leotard look and leg warmers. That dance-influenced style has evolved into my go-to look: baggy bottoms paired with a sexy cropped top or tank.

Z: You have an effortless way of pulling a look together — what’s your trick?

G: I don’t think I have to match from head to toe. I like to add splashes of bright color with an accessory or bra top. Colors make me happy. I also like to wear layers — tank under a cut-off tee under a jacket. That way I can strip down as I’m teaching.

Z: What are you wearing when you’re not in Zumba apparel?

G: Jeans, a tee and boots. Or a maxi dress. Long maxi dresses are easy. Functional
but sexy.

Z: What about accessories?

G: Most of the time, I wear these two necklaces — one that has my initials and the other with the first initials of my children’s names: Jaydon, Elijah, Anaya and Maliah. It’s a representation of my family.  But I’m most addicted to shoes — boots, heels, funky shoes — and bags. I think that a sick pair of shoes with a bag completes the outfit. And when I know I’m going dancing and kicking it all night, I wear platforms. Otherwise, I have to go home early.

Z: What look have you taken a risk on and had it work out?

G: I tried high-waisted jeans. I wasn’t totally comfortable in them, but my best friend swore they looked good.

Z: What are must-haves in any girl’s closet?

G: As many pairs of shoes as you can possibly have! And all different kinds, too. My daughter counted my shoes the other day. I’m embarrassed to say how many I have!

Z: Aw, spill it!

G: Never! But she was counting workout shoes and flip-flops. I guess even more embarrassing is how many jeans I own.

Z: Really? What are your favorite kinds?

G: Anything that makes my booty look good! So all styles (skinny, cropped) and washes — anything that’s trendy right now. William Rast and Hudson brands are good booty jeans.

Interview by Chan Tran Huth / Photo by Dania Graibe

Excerpted from the Z-LIFE Fall 2011 issue.

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