Grand Prix - Kelly Gale
Swedish newcomer Kelly Gale has proven to be the surprise package of the New York Spring/Summer 2013 collections, delighting all with her appearances at a smattering of shows including Cushnie et Ochs, Rag & Bone, Honor, Monique L'Huillier, Boy by Band of Outsiders, Tommy Hilfiger, Reem Acra, Badgley Miscka, Narciso Rodriguez, Nanette Lepore, Vivienne Tam, and Ralph Lauren. Seventeen year old Gale was scouted at the tender age of thirteen in her hometown of Goteborg and has been modelling locally until recently. Born and raised in Sweden to Indian and Australian parents, Gale's hard to place looks have ignited interest amongst casting directors and designers alike.
Gale first popped up on my radar in late 2011 when she was cast in Chanel's Paris meets Bombay inspired Pre-Fall 2012 collection. In the lead up to the New York Spring/Summer 2013 shows, Gale again captured my attention with her debut editorial appearance in the September 2012 issue of Teen Vogue lensed by Sebastian Kim. Gale's face is a delicate mix of wholesome prettiness mixed in with a dash of alluring sultriness which translates beautifully through the camera's lens. Blessed with 177cm athletic frame, Gale's lithe limbs are perfectly suited to the runway however it remains to be seen if her multi-ethnic look will be embraced by the white-washed runways of Milan and Paris. Gale's management team at DNA Models have been selectively unveiling their protegé to the fashion industry with the buzz surrounding the newcomer signalling a race towards the finish line with designer Karl Lagerfeld amongst her camp of supporters.