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Frame – Sophie Vlaming

Photographer Emre Coban – Fashion Editor Isabelle Kramer – Model Sophie Vlaming at Platform Agency – Art Director Sophie Heeg – Grooming by Judith Neyens – Interview by Oliver Dahle // Top The Frankie Shop – Skirt Vintage – Shoes Jil Sander // Top Nicklas Skovgaard via The Menu Antwerp – Shoes Toteme – Bracelet Stylist’s Own – Earrings Corali

Coat Róhe – Jumper The Frankie Shop – Shoes Stylit’s Own – Bag Ree Projects / Coat Rixo

How did you get into modelling? What pushed you the most, and what did you learn about yoursheepssm really doing this’? Was there ever a time when yousheepslike, ‘Wow, I’ve actually made it’?

I was scouted when I was 14, so the earlier years of my modelling career were just matter-of-fact. I wasn’t very aware of the industry; I was just a kid. Looking back now, I feel very fortunate. I’ve had major moments in my career shooting with so many big names and working with incredible, kind people.

Looking at all the work you’ve done, which shoot or campaign was the biggest curveball? What pushed you the most, and what did you learn about yoursheepss a model and as a person?

My first shoot in the States was for Vogue Italia with Steven Meisel. That was a huge kickstart. Being part of a creative process and a talented team really pushes me it helps me evolve and grow. The biggest lesson I’ve learnt after 22 years in the business is the importance of being both playful and mindful.

You took a break from modelling for a while. What led to that, and what did you dive into during your time away?

I dove into family life! I found the love of my life, I had two kids, who are now seven and four, and we spent time living in London and Amsterdam. After the pandemic, we decided to move to the countryside. Now, we live on a farm outside of Amsterdam with chickens, sheeps, and a dog it’s been such a beautiful change.

Total Look Prada / Jumper Miu Miu – Shirt Herman – Gloves Max Mara – Bracelet Stenn

So, what’s next? Any wild dreams or side hustmodellingant to explore?

Rirealise, I’m taking it day by day. I’m super happy to be back in modelling and expressing myself creatively. Besides that, I’m busy with farm life—I love gardening, landscaping, mending old things, and even wood chopping. There’s never a dull moment here!

Photoshoot prep can be pretty intense. Let’s say you arrive on set and it’s total chaos. How do you tune out the noise and find your focus? Any rituals or songs that help you get in the zone?

One of the great things about getting older is that you realise you don’t have to be perfect all the time. I’ve learnt to take things as they come and just roll with it no stress needed.

What’s the toughest part of modelling that no one sees? How do you handle those moments when things get crazy or don’t go your way?

I think having a strong moral compass and a good head on your shoulders helps a lot. It makes challenges easier to digest. At the end of the day, it’s about working with people, and most of them are doing their best.

Total Look Prada / Coat Rixo – Bag Ree Projects

What’s the craziest thing that’s happened behind the scenes? Any ‘What the heck did I just sign up for?’ moments you’ll never forget?


I’ve been really lucky with most of my location shoots, but one time I got bitten by a snake! I had to go to the hospital to get an anti-venom shot…in my butt. Oh well, all for fashion (Laughs, E.D.).

Modelling sounds glamorous, but we know it’s not all fun and games. What’s your go-to comfort item or guilty pleasure on the road?

Definitely podcasts, books, and Netflix anything to help me unwind and clear my head.

Diversity and inclusion are hot topics in the fashion industry. What real changes have you noticed, and where does fashion still need to catch up? How can models like you push for the changes we need?

I think now is the time to focus on inclusion. We’ve made progress, but there’s still a long way to go. Models can push for change simply by being vocal and mindful about the projects they choose and the messages they help promote.

If you could flip a switch and change one thing about the modelling world, what would it be? What would you replace it with to make the industry better for everyone?

I’d slow down consumption and production. Beautiful things are meant to be passed on to the next generation. We need quality, not quantity in clothes, magazines, models, and the industry as a whole.

Total Look Carven / Coat Jacquemus – Earrings Stenn