A QUICK BACKSTAGE CHIT-CHAT WITH CHARLOTTE HØYER
BY JULIA FRAKES
Catapulted into stardom by landing last season's Calvin Klein exclusive subsequent to gracing the cover of Cover magazine (elegantly photographed by Hasse Nielson), the Danish knockout went on to conquer the catwalks in London (opening Ossie Clark and walking for Christopher Kane), Milan (Marni, Roberto Cavalli), and Paris (Chloé, Louis Vuitton). Fresh from her couture début at Armani Privé Spring 2009, Charlotte spent Fall 2009 New York Fashion Week walking for the (diverse) likes of Vera Wang, Doo.Ri (of which she gracefully closed the show), J. Mendel, Narciso Rodriguez, Jill Stuart, Ohne Titel and Charlotte Ronson. Proof of the abiding power and longevity of Maida and Rami's superior Calvin casting, the astute Scandinavian maintains an insightful perspective on the real merits of the industry by keeping her head firmly planted atop her shoulders. Touted by models.com as a Top 10 Newcomer on account of her "immaculate walk" (as exhibited in on her mother agency's video) and piercing cornflower blue eyes, I caught up with the incredibly warmhearted and talented Dane just after Narciso for a quick tête-à-tête touching on her solid family values and merrymaking philosophy on "colourful clothes."
When did you first know that you wanted to be a model?
I remember it being a "little girls' dream" when I was really young; I never wanted to be a princess, I just wanted to be a model! I had no real intension of actually following through, though. I forgot about it and focused on my education instead. In fact, I would never have tried to become a model on my own if I had not been discovered.
Do you ever become homesick while traveling? Do you bring any mementos or keepsakes from home with you?
Of course I do! I have the most amazing family and friends in my native Denmark that I love more than anything, so I miss them dearly when I'm not at home. I always hate leaving everybody because I feel so much love and happiness when I am with them. On the bright side: the more that I am away, the more that I appriciate everything when I return home. I always have nostalgic mementos with me, notably a bracelet that I wear daily with sentimental charms from my where friends and family. So in a way my loved ones are smiling at me from my wrist all of the time. I also have a teddy bear which for me symbolizes all the people that I love and miss across the pond. Needless to say I cuddle with it every night!
What is the most stressful aspect of Fashion Week? And the best part?
The models are essentially in a hurry 24/7 and people expect us to be at three different places at once –- which obviously can be difficult at times. We're constantly on the go, which is a good thing because it comes hand-in-hand with attaining success... and that's why we're here! I always try to remember to take a few seconds to enjoy being where I am, even while just among all the girls. New York, Milan, Paris... the best thing is experience of trying so many new ventures and meeting so many amazing people.
What are your hobbies or hidden talents that may surprise people?
Well I love to play handball in my hometown, where I have been the leader of my team for many years. People who think models are unintelligent may be suprised that I get top grades in school. Exercising in general sort of my thing and I have a soft spot for horseback riding. I love having and going to parties with friends, but I really think that the foremost feeling is just relaxing and having fun with family and confidants. I guess I have a big talent of being happy!
How would you describe your personal style?
You can't really tell from any "fashion pictures" of me because I have to look chic in tight black dresses for castings and the like... but my true personal style is way more visually fun and appealing. I am drawn to colors and get very creative with clothes. I hardly ever wear black or grey when I'm at home... always something vibrant! I follow a crazy concept that I'll somehow make everybody else just a little happier if I wear striking colors, so I'm merely trying to brighten people up!
What are your last thoughts prior to stepping out onto the runway?
Let's do this! And do it 'good'!
Do you believe in luck?
For sure. I always remember the quote: "We must believe in luck. For how else can we explain the succes of those we do not like?" I've had an enormous amount of luck in my life thus far – a great childhood, family, friends and success – and I'm so grateful!
What have you learned about yourself through modelling?
That I can do anything! And that's just what I want to do; plus I'm in no hurry considering that I am only 16. I have my whole life in front of me and there is no reason to "chase it." It will all come to me as long as I do what I like and have fun with it.
How do you keep yourself entertained backstage?
Unless I'm too tired, I simply chat with the girls and try to have a laugh with someone. Otherwise talking to the dressers...
How do you maintain your radiant complexion? Do you have a specific beauty ritual?
I cleanse my skin every morning and evening with a gentle skin tonic and moisturize frequently throughout the day.
What is your favorite meal of the day? How would you rate your cooking ability?
Every meal! I loooove food... it's essentially what my whole life is centered about. I actually think my cooking ability is acceptable. I mean I don't know how to concoct very much in the kitchen but I always come up with my very creative own way of doing things and it usually turns out pretty great. Well, I think it's great.
What do you consider to be the most widespread misconception about models?
That we don't eat. I'm so sick of hearing that. Of course we all need to fit the "model-size" if we want to stay in business.. but in my book, cookies and candy are pretty much the greatest...
Who are your favorite fashion designers?
Right now I'm absolutely in love with Marc Jacobs' new collection. But there are so many other amazing designers out there that I have tremendous respect for, including Hannah MacGibbon (Chloé), Adam Lippes (ADAM), Stine Goya, and Harold Tillman (Jaeger)...
What is your favorite fairy tale, and why?
Oh I'm actually not sure... but throughout Fashion Week thus far I keep thinking of the movie Beauty and the Beast. I sure do enjoy that story!
Which words/phrases do you most frequently (over)use?
"I could really use some candy right now."
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement thus far?
I'm 16 years old and have been living alone in New York, London, Milan, Paris, Germany... making friends, staying happy. I think that I'm doing okay?
Pictured: Charlotte Høyer at Ohne Titel Fall 2009 and in the new issue of 10 Magazine
Source:
http://www.papermag.com/blogs/2009/02/a_quick_backstage_chitchat_wit_2.php