WATCH THIS FACE: GAO JIE
We meet the Chinese model taking Gucci by storm
Every week, Bazaar's booking team highlights one name to note, from the industry's best-known faces to girls who are just starting out. This week, we turn our attention to Gao Jie.
With a full glitter pout, the Chinese newcomer Gao Jie debuted at Gucci and brought a beautiful sophistication to her kooky look. Elegant and poised with a blunt fringe, the 23-year-old looks set to go far now that she has walked for such a prestigious label.
"Gao Jie has a universal, timeless appeal for beauty that is very unique," says Conor Kennedy at Muse Management. "We feel she has the possibility to work with the highest level of clients not just in the United States but on an international scale."
With her soulful eyes and graceful demeanour, Jie has sparked interest among fashion's elite and we expect to see her for seasons to come.
We talk to Jie about being discovered at art school in Shanghai, hot yoga and her dream of opening an animal-rescue centre.
How were you discovered?
"I was discovered when I was in the art school in Shanghai."
If you weren't modelling, which career would you pursue and why?
"I love helping animals. I would like to open an animal rescue."
What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far?
"Working for Marc Jacobs Beauty."
How do you spend your free time?
"I love to dance and do yoga."
Do you have any travel tips for those visiting your home town?
"I grew up in Shanghai. You definitely need to try traditional food when you are travelling. Chinese food is the best."
What are the three products you can't live without?
"My iPhone, Pepsi and my Chanel bags."
What is your favourite form of exercise?
"I love to meditate and do yoga. I recently got into hot yoga and love it more."
What is your dream shoot?
"I want to shoot with all the top photographers at least once, of course! I would love to shoot in Paris. It's a magical city."
Name your five essential items you wouldn't leave the house without
"Headphones, phone, phone charger, passport and my keys."
If you had to wear only one designer, who would it be?
"Marc Jacobs. He is extremely talented and the clothes are a lot of fun."
What kind of advice would you give to new girls to the industry?
"Respect others and believe in yourself."
Is there a model's career that you admire and why?
"Du Juan. She is so powerful."
What is your life motto?
"Keeping to your original aspiration leads you to success."
Let's talk about favourites. What about…
…music? "Joe Hisaishi."
…books? "Anything by Jane Austen."
…food? "Strawberries."