WHO? "New Supers" Imaan Hammam, Bella Hadid, Aneta Pajak, Sophia Ahrens, Grace Hartzel, Malaika Firth, Ella Richards and Marga Esquivel, who star in Topshop's new holiday campaign. Each model of the moment has made a splash on international runways, walking in shows for everyone from Chanel to Marc Jacobs – and they have huge Instagram followings too.
WHY? Last year's festive season campaign featured Brit girl Cara Delevingne, but this year's diverse cast represents the brand's recent global approach. Kate Phelan, Topshop Creative Director, explains that their ultimate squad brings together girls that they love: "They're stylish, socially engaged and fun".
WHERE? Pieces from the new holiday collection arrive in store today at Topshop Queen St, ph 0508 TOPSHOP, and online.
Read more from each girl below:
IMAAN HAMMAM
What scares you?
In the early days, modelling was nerve-wracking – I had to open my first big show with Anna Wintour and Kanye sitting in the front row and I was shaking. Luckily make-up artist Pat McGrath calmed me down. She’s the sweetest thing.
What's the best bit about modelling?
Walking in the shows. When I step out on the catwalk I can't explain the feeling – it's more than excitement. I get goose bumps and my heart is racing.
What's on your holiday gifting list?
A new surfboard and a really festive jumper.
BELLA HADID
How was it walking for Topshop Unique's London Fashion Week show?
It was really exciting. I wore this awesome faux fur coat and really cute heels. And I love a good red lip!
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.How would your best friend describe you?
A little crazy maybe, but I think I'm a good friend so I hope she would say that about me too.
What advice would you give to models starting out?
You've got to be nice. Friendship is probably the most important thing in the fashion world, otherwise no one really respects you. If you're mean you're not going to go very far.
How is it having a sister (Gigi) in the same industry?
We're always really busy, so it's nice to see each other at work. Fashion week is great because we finally get to hang out.
Are you on Santa's nice or naughty list?
The naughty list. I was born naughty!
ANETA PAJAK
What's the best beauty trick you've learnt from make-up artists?
One make-up artist taught me how to make a body scrub just by mixing sugar and honey. It really works!
What's the coolest place you've been in the world?
I've travelled to so many places around the world for work, but without a doubt the coolest place for me is the tiny Polish village where I was born. Life there has its own rhythm - people respect nature and traditional values.
How would your best friend describe you?
Complex!
What are you doing for the holidays?
All I want is time with my family. Relaxing, loved ones and food is the best package.
SOPHIA AHRENS
What did you want to be growing up?
I never thought I'd be a model. I don't know how it happened! I still ask myself – how did I get here?! Growing up in the countryside I always wanted to be a farmer.
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.Where's the coolest place you've been?
I travelled to LA to walk Burberry and it was unbelievable. I went sightseeing, hung out on Venice beach. It's different to anywhere I've ever travelled, which is a lot!
What do you get up to on shoots?
I usually bring a sketch book with me but I always get distracted chatting. Otherwise I'm on Instagram. I'm addicted.
What are you wearing for the holidays?
The playsuit from this shoot is properly festive. And I love the sparkly tights. It's made for a party!
GRACE HARTZEL
What's your secret talent?
If I weren't a model I'd be a musician. I don't play any instruments but I like singing. I'm a good singer. I like to write tunes and my karaoke song would be something by New Order.
What do you do to chill out?
I really like British comedy. The Mighty Boosh is my favourite. I love Noel Fielding – he's always cool to watch.
What makes a supermodel?
I think consistency – consistency in being yourself but also being kind to everyone. Also being on time, choosing the right jobs. You definitely have to have serious personality.
How would your best friend describe you?
Crazy, silly and groovy! Or maybe just really weird….
What's on your holiday playlist?
'Soulful Christmas' by James Brown, 'It Must be Santa' by Bob Dylan and 'Father Christmas' by The Kinks.
MALAIKA FIRTH
What makes a role model in the fashion world?
Someone who's not afraid to be themselves. It's about speaking your mind and knowing what you want in life, without worrying what other people think. That's what people look up to.
How was it walking the Topshop Unique show?
So fun! One time I had a red lip on and these really mini shorts so felt quite sexy. I love Topshop clothes so it's always nice to walk for you guys.
What are you most proud of?
My biggest achievement is becoming a model. I've worked with so many big designers and talented people and not a lot of people can say that.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I hope I'll be getting married with a kid in a big house – that would be nice!
ELLA RICHARDS
Have you inherited any musical talent from your granddad (Keith)?
No! I tried learning the piano but my teacher kept me on nursery rhymes for about a year. You can't be playing 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' when you're 14…
What makes a supermodel?
I think it's about having that 'mysterious' thing – where you don't give away too much. Also someone who's just a nice person.
What makes you laugh?
Things I shouldn't laugh at! I find silly things funny like people falling over or a kid having a tantrum.
What will you be doing this Holiday season?
Eating too much and watching The Holiday.
MARGA ESQUIVEL
What made you dye your hair?
I was going through a lot of changes in my life so just wanted to do something different. I wanted something sun-kissed but unusual – inspired by the surfer girls back home.
What do you get up to on your days off?
I'm really into food and nutrition, so I like following vegan accounts like FullyRawKristina on Instagram. When I'm at home in California I love going hiking or skateboarding along the beach.
What are you most proud of?
I'm proud of staying who I am – a lot of things in this industry can change a person and I'm happy that I have a steady head on my shoulders.
How will you be spending the holidays?
With my family and my boyfriend watching The Nightmare Before Christmas.
