MEET THE MODEL WHOSE FACE HAS HELPED CHANGE THE PERCEPTION OF BEAUTY WITHIN CHINA AND BEYOND.

When was the moment in your career when you realised that modelling can be a long-term career? “Believe it or not, it was only three years ago when I realised this. Around that time, I started filming my Chinese web series ‘Wen Li’. Doing that helped me understand that my experience in fashion can be used in many ways, on different platforms.” What have you learnt from being a model? “You have to be strong and independent. Oftentimes you’re on your own, and while those who support you are only a phone call away, they’re not usually there with you. Also, great communication with people is essential.” How has the fashion industry changed since you’ve started modelling? “Everything is more digital now, and you can experience fashion on the web through endless photos, videos, live streams etc. Also, I feel that as models we have developed our own voices and people can feel closer to us through social media platforms.” Were you interested in fashion before becoming a model? “I don’t think I was ever that interested! I just wore T-shirts, jeans and sneakers.” How has your personal style evolved since working in the fashion industry? “Working with so many talented designers, stylists and other creatives, you’re constantly influenced by everyone’s point of view, so I don’t think my style has evolved in just one way. When you can get up close and personal with designer pieces during shoots, you really understand the effort that goes into making clothing. All in all, I mainly learnt that while there are always many trends, you should go with what feels right to you and wear what you appreciate the most. I love mixing and matching different styles, and comfort is always the priority.” You’ve talked about how you felt too tall and awkward when growing up. How did you gain more confidence within yourself? “I think for many girls the concept of ageing is somewhat taboo, but I have discovered that confidence builds as you mature over the years. So don’t be afraid of growing up!” Tell us what you think needs to be done for there to be more diversity in the fashion industry. “I think everyone should continue to open their eyes and learn about all the cultures in the world. When there is knowledge about what may be foreign to you, you can easily appreciate the beauty in everything and everyone.” How do you feel the perception of Chinese beauty in the Western world has changed since you’ve started in the fashion industry? How about in China? “I think when I started, I observed that many in fashion and beauty constantly associated the colour red with Chinese beauty – red lips, red clothes, etc. But now many more embrace the versatility of Chinese beauty: we can be styled and made up in endless ways, just like everyone else. More importantly, I think Western audiences now understand that Chinese beauty is different from other types of Asian beauty as well. In terms of China itself, I also see some changes: single eyelids like my own are slowly gaining more acceptance, and there also seems to be more emphasis in a woman’s spirit and inner beauty.” What do you think is necessary to be a successful model? “Be smart and hard-working, always learn something wherever you go, and be grateful for the opportunity.”