Photographer Sébastien Giraud – Fashion Editor Tricja Cotterrill – Model Gwen Weijers at Platform – Makeup by Louise Rouger – Hair by Kazue Deki – Photography Assistant Paolo Battistel – Digital Assistant Matias Brigidano – Fashion Assistant Hannah Longstreet – Production Anaïs Roger – Production Assistant Edouard Fdida – Special Thanks to Rouchon Studio Paris – Interview by Marco Martello // Total Look Carven // Jacket Louis Vuitton // Jacket and Shorts Róhe – Blazer Strellson – Shirt The Frankie Shop – Tie Gant – Sunglasses Tom Ford – Earrings Droomfabriekantiek.nl
Jacket Louis Vuitton – Trousers Giada – Shoes Sportmax – Earrings Droomfabriekantiek.nl – Bangles Neeka Studios / Jacket The Frankie Shop – Dress Giada – Belt Gucci – Bangles Neeka Studios
First things first, can you share with us the story of how you first got into fashion?
I got scouted on Instagram when I was 17 years old. After some test shoots, I signed with agencies in Paris, Milan and New York, and I got ready for my first fashion week. That was a success, and so it all started.
You were born and grew up in the Netherlands. What do you miss the most about your homeland when you’re away for work?
The safe feeling that I have at home. I live in a small town between Amsterdam and the beach, and I really love it there. It’s quiet and so peaceful.
Taking a step back, how did you find the confidence a model needs to stand in front of the camera?
Having fun! This really gives me a lot of confidence. I know now that being yourself and having fun in front of the camera produces the best results. So it really helps, for me, to know that I can enjoy shooting.
Top and Trousers Proenza Schouler – Gloves Handsome Stockholm – Necklace Gucci – Bangle Stylist’s Own / Jacket Louis Vuitton – Trousers Giada – Shoes Sportmax – Earrings Droomfabriekantiek.nl – Bangles Neeka Studio
Over the past few years, you’ve walked down the catwalk for brands by the likes of Dior, Balmain and Louis Vuitton. Is there a show that you remember with affection?
A lot of shows were special for me. But if I have to choose one, I’d say my first Louis Vuitton show during my first Paris Fashion Week. It was very impressive, because it was in the Louvre and there were no people visiting the museum at that time. Also, my outfit was amazing and the music was impressive as well.
Being a model, you get to meet lots of talented people. Who’s a creative you’ve been dying to work with lately, and why?
I’d love to shoot with Steven Meisel. I find his work very cool, and it’s very much my style. I love that he shoots a lot in black and white and his work shows a lot of expression.
Jacket The Frankie Shop – Shirt, Trousers and Scarf ADN Paris – Sunglasses Armani – Earrings Stylist’s Own / Coat Tod’s – Shirt and Belt Cos – Trousers Cashi – Earrings Droomfabriekantiek.nl
Gwen, if you were to give a piece of advice to people who are struggling to feel confident in their own skin, what would it be?
Be true to yourself and don’t blame yourself if people reject you. You’re not less of a person if you don’t fit certain standards. Decide for yourself who you want to be and what suits you.
Going back to your job as a model, what’s the greatest misconception about modelling?
That it’s all glamour. It’s still a job and we have to work for our money as well. But of course, it also brings a lot of nice experiences.
Coat Gucci – Bralette Max Mara – Shorts Khol – Cuffs The Collectives – Loafers Tod’s – Socks Arket / Shirt Filippa K – Trousers Strellson – Belt Wandler – Earrings Droomfabriekantiek.nl
Let’s now talk about one of the hottest topics in fashion. Do you see AI as a threat or an opportunity?
I don’t necessarily see AI as a threat. I think it’s pretty cool that it exists.
Gwen, what’s the one thing you’d like most to change about the fashion industry?
In the past few years, I feel like a lot has already changed in the fashion industry. The acceptance of diversity is increasing, and I encourage that.
Lastly, what’s a question you’ve never been asked but always wanted to answer?
How do you combine modelling with university?
Coat Tod’s – Shirt Cos / Total Look Carven