The Fashion Model

Whist we appreciate that a ‘standard day’ is not in your vocab... can you tell us what a typical day in the life of Irene the fashion model/actress?

My days are usually very busy. I have two young daughters so I get up early to make sure they are prepared for school and nursery. I am very family orientated so my day will always start with taking care of my children and my husband. Around mid-morning I drive into the city to attend castings and auditions. As you can imagine, my afternoons are a bit of a whirl wind because I like to get home to see the children when they return from school. Any spare moments I have, I spend designing. I have a note book I carry around everywhere, so when inspiration strikes I can get my notes down on paper quickly.

If you could choose any brand to model for who would it be and why?

Chanel. Chanel is timeless and is the very definition of style. For me Chanel breathes style.

In your mind, what is it about being a top model that rocks and what sucks?

With the opportunity I have been given, I think it’s important to pass on your knowledge and experience to others. I enjoy being able to give guidance and advice to those just staring out in the industry. I really enjoy that aspect of the job. It’s also great to meet new people and to travel to different places in the world.

Although I started modelling at sixteen, I have stayed very grounded throughout my career. However, models are often exposed to exploitation and scandal which is not good to see. There is a darker side to the industry and I don’t like that.

Which one model inspires you the most and why?

That’s’ a tricky one. I like twiggy because one of my favourite era’s for fashion is the sixties. In more modern terms I like Heidi Klum. She is more of a style icon because she is more eccentric and mixes lots of styles and pulls it off. She doesn’t copy the catwalk like Victoria Beckham – who will simply copies whatever designers are producing. She is not original.

What qualities should a successful fashion model have?

To be successful you need to be on time, look good and stay healthy. If you take care of yourself and stay professional you will get the breaks. Persistence is another quality you need. Don’t give up on your dreams.

What do you normally think about when you strike a pose?

You have to think about yourself. When I’m in front of the camera the world stops and I just focus on myself. You need to be full of confidence so just tell yourself how wonderful you are and that you’re a star.

No doubt you have to do a lot of sitting around on sets, what do you do to pass the time?

When I’m on a shoot and I am surrounded by cameras, clothes and make-up, it’s easy to be inspired. I always carry a little note book around with me and I like to jot down new ideas for my designs. If I have an idea I have to write it down or draw a sketch, otherwise it will be gone. Sometimes I do get writers block so I always take a good book with me. It’s also a good time to re-arrange and organise my handbag! 

What’s been the highlight of your career to date?

The highlight so far has to be launching my own brand. It had always been a dream to have my own designs and now I’m set to do that with IM London. However, I’m very hungry for success and I’m very driven. Now that I have got the designs together, I want the brand to grow and become iconic within its own right.

Who’s the most inspiring person you’ve ever met in fashion and why?

I have two inspirational figures that spring to mind but I have yet to meet them. I would love to meet Queen Rania. She has true style and is a mum like me, so I can relate to her. I also find Anna Wintour very inspiring - her look is timeless.

What’s the hottest item in your wardrobe at the moment?

A few weeks ago I went to the Grosvenor Antique fair. I was panicking because I had nothing to wear, so I took a size 22 1920’s sequin top from my vintage collecting and added a trim along the bottom to turn it into a dress. It looked sensational and people were asking me if it was Chanel. When I told them I had made it myself from an extra large top, they couldn’t believe it! It’s defiantly my favourite item in my wardrobe at the moment.

Gina or Jimmy Choo?

Jimmy Choo, of course! 

Favourite country?

The UK. It’s where my home is and where my kids go to school.

Romantic night in or crazy night out?

Defiantly a romantic night in.

The top three fashion brands you respect the most:

1. Chanel
2. Hermes
3. Paco Rabanne

What one thing do you desperately want to do in your life (can be outside of professional life)?

I’m very traditional and I love my family very much. As long as I raise a happy healthy family – that’s what’s most important. Family always comes first. In terms of fashion, I want IM London and IM vintage to become international iconic brands. I want people to be able to breathe IM London. As long as I have my family behind me, I have all the support I need to make that happen.

What’s the future got in store for Irene?

I don’t like to think too much into the future, I like to be surprised. I hope the IM London brand will develop and grow but I try not to plan too far ahead. After all, ‘life is what happens when you’re busy making plans.’

Finally, what words of wisdom would you give to anyone wanting to start out in a career modelling?

You need to have a good mentor and never give up. The fashion world is full of ups and downs and you need to be prepared for that. You never know what is around the corner, so keep your head up and stay focussed.

To check out Irene's own fashion label go to the IM London website.