Shot by Mathieu Rainaud – Fashion Editor Simone Rutigliano – Model Baye Seye at IMG Models – Makeup by Isis Moënne-Loccoz – Hair by Natsumi Ebiko – Casting by Anton / Ikki Casting – Fashion Assistant Gina Mignano – Interview by Chelsea McPartlon // Total Look SAINT LAURENT by Anthony Vaccarello
What’s your biggest form of self-expression?
I’m very proud to be African and I love my culture, so sometimes I like to wear African accessories and clothes during fashion weeks. As a black male model I choose to express myself by letting my hair grow naturally. So, I can proudly say this makes up my personality and it shows that I’m very rooted in my culture and spirituality.
What do your eyes and mind gravitate towards when you first see a person?
Normally when I first see a person I focus on their face, but I can say that I don’t judge anyone by their physical appearance because its deceptive. I like to get to know the person first.
Beer or wine?
Unfortunately, I don’t drink. So I’d have no idea.
Total Look Celine Homme // Total Look Balenciaga – Necklace Panconesi
What’s the first thing you eat after a runway show?
After the show, I go home and I like to cook Senegalese dishes. I enjoy cooking, I’m not someone who likes to eat fast food at all. I prefer everything that’s healthy BIO and natural.
Netflix or in-person movies?
In person movies, there’s so much more emotion.
What’s your favourite motivational quote?
I really like this Indian quote: “A tree cannot touch the sky by abandoning its roots.” It motivates me to stay true to myself, and be proud of my origins wherever I go.
Total Look LGN Louis Gabriel Nouchi – Rings Panconesi // Total Look SAINT LAURENT by Anthony Vaccarello
What’s the best-kept secret about fashion week as a model?
A lot of people think being a model is easy and you just walk, maybe that’s just what we show. But behind the camera, before the show starts, there’s the backstage, we have to come early, get our hair and makeup done. Then probably the most important part is memorising the order and walking path during the show, and always do a test walk with the shoes, this is very important to have a strong walk. With all that said, there’s a lot of organisation behind every fashion show.
What’s your favorite song?
‘Dignity’ by Angélique Kidjo featuring Yemi Alade.
Total Look Celine Homme // Knitwear Y/Project – Earring Panconesi