Editor: Désirée Molyneux
Photography (Cover): Martin Higgs
Model: Sophia Nooshin (Instagram: @sophianmodel)
Makeup Artist: Clarissa Clary
Accessories: NB DIAMONDS
Design: MODE Studio
Sophia Nooshin is an international fashion model that has been sought after for runway, beauty, and bridal work across the globe including in London, Paris, New York, Chicago and Cannes. She has modeled for some of the best-known brands for high fashion and also commercial bookings. With a hard work ethic and years of experience navigating the industry, Sohpia has developed the skills it takes to succeed in what is undoubtably a challenging vocation for most that get into it.
MODE: Some models accidentally get into modeling, some are discovered, and some have always been inclined towards modeling and fashion from a young age. When did you first get into modeling and when did you decide that it was what you wanted to do for a career?
SOPHIA: Thank you for giving me this opportunity. I have been following your magazine for years now and love your work! Well from the age of 15 people would tell me I should model! Friends at school, teachers, people I would meet randomly, whether socially or just day to day! I always took it as a lovely compliment, and I did love the fashion world and followed models like Naomi Campbell. But at the time I was preparing myself to enter the world of Ballet and was accepted into the prestigious Ballet Rambert school in the UK. After I finished my Degree in Dance/English, I wasn’t sure what to do, so a boyfriend of mine at the time kept urging me to try modelling. So, one day I just walked into a renowned model agency in London, and they signed me straight away booking me that weekend for the British Brand MARKS AND SPENCERS and then the next day The German Womenswear Brand BETTY BARCLAY. And it all started from there.
MODE: Modeling, especially runway modeling can almost be considered as a form of performance dance. How much do you think your training as a ballet dancer has helped you in your modeling profession. What skills do you think you brought over?
SOPHIA: I absolutely! I think the whole modelling world is a performance! Ballet training has helped me considerably on the runway/showroom to be able to model clothes with poise and elegance, especially in high heels. Many brands that I have worked for have booked me for that skill: to move gracefully, turn with elegance and just have a ‘presence’ that can showcase any collection I am modelling.
MODE: You are a very versatile model and very strong in beauty modeling. You have modeled for many high fashion brands and have also done some commercial modeling. Do you have any preference, or do you get different forms of enjoyment from each sector?
SOPHIA: I do prefer the fashion side of the Industry as I adore fashion! I don’t think I have a preference: whether it’s Bridal, Beauty, or Fashion, I try to bring my enthusiasm and experience to each sector.
MODE: You have been modeling for many years and in an industry where many have very short careers. What qualities do you think have enabled you to be able to remain and grow in experience and reach in the industry?
SOPHIA: Thank you! Yes, people ask me this all the time! I think you really need to BREATHE – EAT – SLEEP Fashion modelling to keep on going! I am quite a determined lady and because clients I work with can see how hard I work without being a diva, and that I truly love my job, word just gets around and then clients/Brands/Designers will want to book you. My motto is “Work hard and give the client what they want.” It’s not about me, it’s about the brand’s ethos and what they want to achieve.
MODE: We see that you have done quite a lot of fabulous bridalwear modeling. How did you gravitate towards that? Did you find it, or did it find you?
SOPHIA: I think the bridal industry found me! I’ve been modelling beautiful bridalwear for nearly 15 years now! I have been lucky enough to have worked with brands from all over the world! Clients have included Augusta Jones, GATTI NOLLI COUTURE, ALFRED SUNG BRIDALS, ELBETH GILLIS COUTURE, LEA-ANN BELTER BRIDAL, and I am now the House Model for British Powerhouse Dando London Bridals for the last 8 years.
MODE: Can you take us through a typical workday the steps you would normally take to prepare for a photo shoot or runway show.
SOPHIA: Each workday varies depending on whether you’re doing a shoot or show/Presentations. Shows will include lots of Fittings and rehearsals. Shoots involve working closely with the brand to create their vision, paying attention to mood boards etc. I will always prepare beforehand by eating well, exercising, and getting lots of sleep before a shoot.
MODE: Can you tell us which of your modeling jobs you have enjoyed the most or that left the most positive memories for you?
SOPHIA: That’s a hard one as I have truly loved each job I’ve done. Doing the big shows around the globe is always the most exciting. I loved working in Paris and Cannes as I met so many interesting creatives and celebrities.
MODE: Like many industries there are constants but also evolution. In what ways do you notice the industry has changed since you started? What change stands out the most to you?
SOPHIA: I think the industry is more open now to different ethnicities. When I first started, I remember an agent telling me work is generally less in the UK for models of colour. Maybe that comment sparked a determination in me to prove otherwise! I also see brands being more diversive and using plus size models or models that are generally ‘Curvier’ in appearance rather than super skinny, and I am noticing this more in the Lingerie/Swimwear Sector, which is very refreshing. Also, age is not a limit anymore. Many models are working well into their sixties and getting very lucrative jobs and I love that!
MODE: When you’re not busy modeling how do you wind down and relax? Do you have any hobbies that you enjoy?
SOPHIA: Oh yes! I absolutely love to dance whether it’s Ballet, Zumba, Street dance! There is nothing like putting on your dancing shoes and sweating away to some music! It’s the best! I dance every day, but I also love to catch up on the creative world by going to a play or musical or cinema as well as visiting as many exhibitions as I can.
MODE: What are your plans for the future? Do you have any interesting or fun projects coming up?
SOPHIA: My plan is just to keep going! I have just finished a few shoots that should be going live next week and that I will be sharing on my Instagram. There are some projects coming up abroad which will be fun, so please do follow me on Instagram to see the latest!
Read more on “BRITTANY ANDERSON” and other features in this edition of Mode Lifestyle Magazine.
(Available on Amazon: ”SOPHIA NOOSHIN” COVER (THE BEAUTY ISSUE 24 – COLLECTOR’S EDITION)
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