The power of two proves beneficial for these aspiring fashion icons,
writes Mitchell Oakley Smith.
Photography Paul Scala | Styling Jolyon Mason | Grooming Sophie Roberts
In ancient mythology, twins were said to be particularly auspicious. When you consider the success of identical twin models Jordan and Zac Stenmark, such a myth seems to ring true. But successful as they may be, fate has little to do with it.
Having grown up in Clifton Gardens on Sydney's north shore, Jordan and Zac were aware of fashion – indeed, their aunt, Susie Stenmark, was until recently the head of communications for Chanel’s Australian office – but it wasn’t on their radar as far as a career. Graduates from St Ignatius' College in 2010, the twins both enrolled to study a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics at Sydney University – a course that, it should be noted, typically requires a NSW score of around 80 – and, having only attended classes for a few months before beginning modeling fulltime, are both keen to complete the degree when time permits.
But despite their obvious zeal for and success modeling today, Messrs Stenmark were initially skeptical of making it. “We didn’t have a clue what would happen,” says Jordan of signing to Viviens Model Management’s Sydney division in early 2010 at the suggestion of a friend. “We went in wanting to do it part time for a bit of fun, to learn a bit about another industry. I don’t think either of us thought we would have done some of the things we have since then. It just wasn’t on our radar.”
Messrs Stenmark have, by and large, impressed the photographers they have since worked with, which today includes Bruce Weber and Terry Richardson. As Australian-born, London-based photographer Paul Scala, who shot the twins for this feature, says: “The unique thing about the Stenmark twins is the extra element they bring to the camera when they interact with one another.” It was Mr Scala’s first time shooting Messrs Stenmark, “but I now see what all the fuss is about. It goes beyond their big smiles and towering frames.”
“They’re twins, yes, but the fact that they are also so well-educated, disciplined and easy-going, [and thus] represent my clothes very well, is what makes them special,” says Italo Zucchelli, the creative director of menswear for Calvin Klein Collection, the upper-tier, runway line of the American fashion giant. For the brand’s fall 2012 and spring 2013 presentations at Milan Fashion Week, Mr Zucchelli booked Messrs Stenmark exclusively for his show – that is, they are forbidden to walk for any other designers, exponentially increasing the brands’ industry credibility for the market power that such arrangements wield – and since, has forged a strong relationship with the models that has seen them invited as guests to its special events, including one atop the Duomo in Milan, Italy, in 2012.
“We have always been open-minded to the situation we're in and approached [modeling] with the mindset that we had nothing to lose,” says Jordan. “Obviously we get nervous, but working [with one another] makes it easier.” That they are identical twins is, of course, part of the Stenmarks’ broad appeal to photographers and clients, for the rarity of having not one, but two genetically gifted men is certainly attractive. But aesthetics aside, the twins’ familial chemistry is evident in the ease with which they work together and positively impacts the images they create. “We grew up playing so much sport together and just know what the other is thinking, so there’s great chemistry before you even get on set,” explains Zac. “It’s great because you’re able to work with your brother and your best mate and have some really funny times while you’re at work.”
The average age and length of career of a high-end fashion model is not exactly an enticing prospect for those aspiring to enter the industry, and with the arduous hours and constant physical requirements, there is little wonder that many fizzle out after a few seasons on the runway circuit, whether out of physical or mental exhaustion. Messrs Stenmark concede that the challenges are many. “You come straight of school and thrown into the deep end, travelling and working around the clock,” says Jordan.
As a dual force, Messrs Stenmark have their sights set far beyond next season’s campaign, though if anyone’s asking, they’re keen to bag one with the likes of Tom Ford, Hermes or a skincare label. “We want to make this experience as beneficial as possible,” explains Zac of their plans in the industry. “At the same time, it’s about taking each thing as it comes and having fun with it, because it’s such a dynamic and ever-changing industry.” In terms of their longevity, however, there are whispers of moving beyond the photographic studio and into a role that allows them to show a little more of their own personalities. A talk show? Maybe not just yet, but with an extensive social media following – the pair took to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram early on, amassing a continually-growing following – it’s certainly not out of the question.
Explaining the use of social media, Zac says it was about delineating their private lives from their public profile. “So many people tried to contact us on Facebook after we started [modeling] and were interested in who we are and what we’re doing, so we thought if they’re interested, let’s give it to them, and it’s only gotten bigger and bigger.” Adds Jordan: “As much as people can see you in print, there are things that we’re personally passionate about and interested in, and I think this gives insight into who we are as people.”
As a result of their recent contract with modeling powerhouse IMG – both locally and in New York – Messrs Stenmark have been playing the social circuit, appearing at launch events, movie premieres and as ambassadors for various organisations. While in Sydney for the summer break, they attended the Australians in New York Fashion Foundation finalist event, having met its founder Malcolm Carfrae through their business relationship with Calvin Klein, where he serves as Vice President of Global Communications. This, they tell, is something they’re interested in helping promote. “We have been part of the industry a short time,” says Zac, “but if we can help anyone, like by supporting this program, then that’s great. We’re honoured to do so.”
Does modeling still give them the same thrill as it did on those first few test shoots? “Every day is different and as we do more and more it becomes easier and in some ways more fun,” says Jordan. “I’ve learnt so much about all of these cities and cultures at such a young age,” adds Zac, “and that’s really an incredible privilege. You have to be organised and focused and prepared 100% of the time, but I think we have both matured in a really good way and have a much stronger sense of the world today.”
