By Rachel Lee (19A01D), Lynn Hong (18A13A), Soh Gek Shuen (18S03B) and Zhu Xiuhua (18S06A)
Read the second part of this feature on the designers of Raffles Runway here.
We see them strutting, elegant and confident, down runways, red carpets, and maybe even school corridors. Raffles Press brings you the person behind the poise, interviewing Ng Kelly (18S05A) and Alex Foo (18A03A) to share their journey in modelling.
Ng Kelly
Why did you decide to try out as a model?
I tried for the first round of model auditions because I felt that it would be cool, but I didn’t get so I just accepted that. But then during the second call, one of my friends who’s a designer got me to try again. I thought modelling for Runway would be super cool because I watched their show last year it was really inspiring!
What were some reactions of the people around you?
A lot of people seemed kind of shocked or surprised when they found out. They were like Aren’t you like 15-something? I’m like yes, yes I am, I’m a proud 156cm. In places like Japan where they’re not so influenced by Western standards, fashion models between 150 to 160 do exist. They’re actually pretty common in the industry, so I guess it would make me really happy if Singapore could also learn to embrace how as Asians we aren’t all 170cm or 180cm and that’s ok! I think it’s a lot nicer to see people who are more like me in media – people who are like 150cm, pulling off an outfit and looking super swag. That’s what I want to be and what I want to see more of.
What is one thing you wish people knew about modelling?
I wish other people knew that modelling isn’t talent – it’s just hard work. If you see the video, you’ll know how much effort and hard work goes into this.
Who should try out as a model?
I think anyone can try out to be a model. It was a really fun process for me. A lot of people will gather outside the venue for the audition though, so it’s kind of stressful. But it’s also cool to see how invested a lot of people are in this! So I guess if you think you have the confidence to do it, then just go and try. Just remember that you’re going to need to put in effort, unless you’re just that random person who’s super talented
What is your favourite part of being a model?
I really like getting to try on the clothes that my schoolmates have made! It was a really novel experience to have clothes that were made to fit me because a lot of times like dresses in stores are just slightly too big or I’m in between sizes. I just hope to be able to show off their clothes in the best way for the show! Please come for the runway show!
What is the most challenging part of being a model?
Right now, my feet hurt from the heels. Not even gonna lie, I’m suffering.
Alex Foo
Why did you decide to try out as a model?
I think that modelling is one of my passions. It’s very exciting because you get to walk down the runway. All the designers have different, unique concepts and outfits. So I think it’s always fun to try something new and try to pull it off and it’s like challenging yourself.
What do you think is the hardest part of being a model?
I think the hardest part is also the most fun part, which is to see the designers’ outfit for you. Because you can’t choose what outfit you want to model, but it’s still a challenge. Sometimes you worry whether you can pull it off or not, but I think it’s about being confident. That’s one of the most important things in Runway anyways.
What were some of the reactions of the people around you?
Some of my friends always joke that when I walk in the canteen, I look like I’m already doing my model walk, but I honestly don’t think so. I’m just walking normally. My friends are quite supportive of me, and they came for the show last year. They’re coming again this year, so I’m looking forward to seeing them.
What is one thing you wish people knew about modelling?
It’s not all about having good looks or a good body. I think it’s more about your walk and like how you carry yourself. But most importantly, it’s your confidence, because you need that to pull off any look and just rock what you’re wearing.
Who should try out to be a model?
Anyone who feels confident enough about themselves.
