PHOTOGRAPHED BY CARLY DAME / STYLED BY YI REN / WRITTEN BY FLORA BAIBOL
When destiny calls, you follow. That is the motto set for Sui He, a model that has gained international recognition for her beauty and talent. What started as a remark by her high school teacher regarding potential led her toward the international fashion scene.
From becoming the first Asian ever to open a Ralph Lauren show and one of the few to grace the Victoria’s Secret catwalk to earning the distinction as the first Chinese model to be the face of renowned Japanese beauty brand, Shiseido. Sui He’s trailblazing journey within the fashion industry has been marked by extraordinary achievements, positioning her as a role model for many who admire her pioneering status.
Upon her visit to Florence for the LUISAVIAROMA x BRITISH VOGUE RUNWAY ICONS FASHION SHOW, we had a moment to sit down with the model in between the change in the locations of her cover shoot.
Stepping onto the scene of the second location, our eyes were immediately drawn to Sui He, seated at a table. Her features stood out in striking contrast against the backdrop of a traditional Florentine trattoria. Clad in a luxurious silk leopard Roberto Cavalli dress, she effortlessly embodied the essence of timeless elegance, still and graceful amongst the hustle and bustle of the filming crew setting up, letting the model catch her breath. We began to wonder if she has always imagined her life as it was at that moment.
“When I was in high school, my teacher told me I was tall, so if I could learn modeling, I would have more choices as an art student in the college entrance exam. So I signed up for a modeling class in the summer vacation,” Sui He shares, reflecting on the pivotal moment that sparked her journey.
“The day after, my teacher told me that there would be a modeling competition, and everyone had to participate, so I kept advancing, finally won the championship after two months, and that’s how my career began.” The determination and perseverance she displayed during the competition propelled her into the realm of modeling. Sui candidly admits that her career has never been her childhood dream. “At that time, I knew nothing about the modeling and fashion world. It was only later that I gradually grew to love it.” Her initial introduction to modeling may not have been rooted in adolescent aspirations, but as she immersed herself in the industry, her passion and adoration for the artistry and creativity of fashion blossomed, solidifying her dedication.
At that time, I knew nothing about the modeling and fashion world. It was only later that I gradually grew to love it.
When asked about significant milestones in her career, Sui He highlights two iconic brands that have played a pivotal role in her journey. With a sense of gratitude, Sui He acknowledges the impact her opening of the Ralph Lauren fashion show in 2011 had on her professional trajectory, marking a transformative moment that propelled her forward. “I let everyone see me as a new person and started the turning point of my career. I have been very moved and grateful.”
She then expresses appreciation for her enduring partnership with Victoria’s Secret, “From the first time in 2011 to now 2023, there is a feeling of growing together.”
Throughout the conversation, the LuisaViaRoma shoot set is not unmentioned. “Of course, there are a lot of very special memories, but I’m also a very present-oriented person. I think this cover shoot with LVR is also interesting!”
I let everyone see me as a new person and started the turning point of my career. I have been very moved and grateful.
While Sui He acknowledges the transformative moments in her career, she humbly intervenes to emphasize that she doesn’t perceive them simply as successes or achievements. Rather, she attributes her path to fortunate encounters with individuals who appreciated her and provided opportunities at the right moments. “I just had the good luck to meet people who appreciated me and gave me the opportunity at a good time. And because of the nature of my work, I was seen by more people.”
In the face of this serendipity, she maintains a grounded perspective, and when asked about the challenges she faces, the model downplays them in her answer. “In the face of this kind of luck, the challenges and difficulties are not worth mentioning. “
Sitting in the century-old traditional Florentine restaurant, immersed in the captivating atmosphere of La Dolce Vita, the conversation naturally gravitates towards the intersection of beauty, heritage, and diversity. As we engage with someone who has earned the reputation of a pioneer in her realm, it becomes imperative to delve into these themes, particularly when exploring the experiences of a foreign beauty navigating the traditions and customs of another culture. “Embracing one’s own culture is instinctive. One of the best things in this industry is to go to different countries and work with different teams. I like to let myself experience and accept other cultures, which makes my experience richer and richer.”
As the interview unfolds, the focus naturally turns to the transformative shifts witnessed by Sui He within the fashion industry. “It is now becoming more diverse, inclusive, and innovative, and has also been breaking people’s rules in fashion.” With a sense of awe, she adds, “The industry has changed so much in the last few years, which I could not have imagined ten years ago.”
The industry has changed so much in the last few years, which I could not have imagined ten years ago.
When asked about her advice to aspiring talents, the model further comments on the ever-changing beauty standards and reflects on the importance of other factors that are shaping the industry. “I think a model’s personality is very important, so you must be confident and optimistic.”
I think a model’s personality is very important, so you must be confident and optimistic.
When we compliment her look, the Sui He tells us a little bit about her personal style.” I usually go for simplicity and comfort.” Even as her full-glamorous look and elegant dress for the set exude professionalism, Sui He values ease of movement in her fashion choices. “I often choose clothes according to where I go and what I do. I think the charm of fashion is that people’s aura, temperament, and even behavior will change after wearing different styles of clothes.”
As our chat nears its conclusion, we realize the last question on our list still needs to be asked. Yet, it becomes evident that the answer lies within the very essence of Sui He’s attitude and outlook on her career. Her graceful and effortless approach to her profession is a profound response. It dawns on us that the quote displayed on her Instagram profile, “Today I am a model,” captures this sentiment perfectly.
Prior to the interview, we had planned to inquire about her plans and aspirations. However, it becomes clear that the quote symbolizes the ease with which she embraces her path. Sui He elaborates, “Customers have always chosen the professional attribute of a model. Since 2011, I have been particularly busy and full of work. At that time, I told myself that this fame and fortune will leave one day, there will be ups and downs, and I’m ready to accept everything that might happen.” She explains, “That quote is more like my gratitude to still work in the fashion industry today.”
