Diving into a world of vibrant hues! Our Cover Star for the March Edition, Daphne Marleen’s shoot is making every frame a masterpiece that’s sure to ignite an itsy-bitsy of imagination!
Step into a world where every lewk echoes resilience. Meet our Cover Star for the March issue, Daphne Marleen, who’s on a journey of self-expression and empowerment. Marleen eloquently articulates her adoration for the multifaceted artistry of modelling, illuminating her fervours for channelling diverse personas in the lens’s gaze. She also underscores the nexus of vitality and wellness, particularly poignant in her narrative as a triumphant conqueror of breast cancer. Read the full interview to join her indomitable spirit, fervent devotion to her craft, and lofty aspirations ensconced within the hallowed halls of the fashion pantheon.
Hello Daphne Marleen! First things first, what do you enjoy most about being a model?
Hi there, I love changing characters and nothing else seems to matter when I’m in front of the camera.
Are there any specific aspects of the job that particularly resonate with you?
I’m a breast cancer survivor and particularly interested in health and fitness since I was a little girl. I truly believe that one needs to intake the right nutrition in your body, that makes you look and feel your best, which is an integral part of this job.
What does a typical day in your life look like for you?
Every day is different. Sometimes I work, while on other days I try to converse with my dietitian degree from Holland to be eligible here in the States. But I always ensure to start my day with a gratitude practice and, my days are generally filled with workouts and healthy meals. Every day, I try to learn something new, to ensure that I’m never stagnant in this process of life.
Could you walk us through your daily routine and any rituals to prepare for shoots or runway shows?
I have a very specific skincare routine. I wash my face in the morning with a gentle cleanser, then put on green tea serum and use a red-light device. During my leisure time, I take a cold plunge and let my body reheat itself. Afterwards, apply a Vitamin C serum moisturizer and sunscreen; as I always ensure to never leave the house without sunscreen. In the evening, I double cleanse and use a copper serum and a moisturizer with retinol, at the end I put extra moisturizer on my lashes.
Many people perceive modelling as solely about physical appearance. What do you believe are the most important qualities or skills for a successful model?
Being able to experiment, act fearlessly in front of the camera or making a fool of yourself, because the weirdest moves can turn into the best pictures.
If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Black dress pants with skims tight black top, leather jacket and my Rick Owens sneakers. Comfortable but stylish, it’s a ready for any occasion outfit (castings included).
How do you navigate the digital landscape as a model?
I don’t know that well. To be honest, I have to work on it. Sometimes I’m really on top of posting, but most of the time I enjoy the moment and let social media go by.
If you could walk the runway for any fashion designer, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
Versace, I have been obsessed with everything they are doing, ever since I can remember. I just love how stylish yet sexy their shows and campaigns have been.
The fashion industry can be fast-paced and demanding. How do you prioritize self-care and maintain a sense of balance and well-being amidst the hustle and bustle?
I find time for my gratitude practice, yoga often and I only have friends in the same industry who understand how hard our life is sometimes.
What advice would you give to aspiring models looking to break into the industry? Are there any lessons you’ve learned along the way that you wish you had known earlier in your career?
Never give up hope, and the road to success won’t be easy. But then again, does anything worthwhile come easy? You need to be passionate and willing to work on yourself every day. Afterall, you need to have a tough skin, and you really need to love this industry in order to succeed.
Looking ahead, what are some of your aspirations or goals within the fashion industry? Are there any dream projects or collaborations you hope to pursue in the future?
Versace is my number one goal. But apart from that, I loved the campaign I did for Philipp Plein and would love to work with them in the future again. Other brands would be Balenciaga, Rick Owens, Prada, Dsquared, Diesel, Swarovski, Cult Gaia and Guess. One of my biggest dreams is also coming true at the beginning of April but I’ve signed an NDA so I cannot talk about the inside details, but I’m very excited about what my future has planned out for me.
Lastly, if you could time-travel to any fashion era or decade, which one would you choose, and what iconic look would you want to rock?
The 90s for sure! I love the sexy and chic aesthetic and I think my looks fit that decade at its best. Also, I would have loved to hang out with Kate Moss. She is such an icon!
Versace, Yves Saint Laurent, Rick Owens, Diesel, Rat and Boa. I love to style unique pieces with a basic black outfit.
How do you transition your wardrobe from day to night seamlessly?
I’ll put on heels, and it always works.
What has been one of your favourite shoots to date?
My favourite shoot was for Philipp Plein because I had five billboards in Malpensa Airport. I remember flying to the job and thinking, ‘How cool would it be if I could ever hang here?’
