These are the fresh faces we hope to see walking in the most prestigious fashion shows and posing for top-notch magazines. Meet Pascal de Vries, an upcoming model whose ready to be the spark that illuminates the world.
As part of our latest series, ‘Conversation Skills’ – DDW sits down with upcoming model Pascal de Vries – a fresh-faced fashion mogul turning heads in Milan for his sleek, sophisticated style. The 22-year-old, represented by the International Model Management team, CM Models, was born and raised in Hameln, Germany, and has since moved to Cologne to further his career. The multifaceted student who aims for gold opens up about how he plans to fulfill his dream in the fashion world.
How did you meet CM Models, and how have they changed your life?
CM was an agency I had known for some time and was also based in Cologne. I did not have much experience in modeling. For five years, I worked in a supermarket as a temp; I already started there when I was 16 years old, besides my school time. My dream has always been to model. Then when I moved and had to quit my job for it, I took the plunge and wanted to start a new chapter in my life. I was accepted into the CM Models file through a Go & See and a test shoot.
Since then, many things have changed. Half a year later, I was already in Milan for my first On Stay. If someone had told me a year ago that I would be going to castings in Milan instead of stocking shelves, I probably would have thought he was crazy.
Why did you become interested in modeling?
My dream has always been to be in front of the camera. Good looks, travel, fashion, cameras, and more. This is the industry I always saw myself in. I’m excited about this insanely diverse, extensive, and exciting business. It’s challenging but doable. You have to believe in yourself, and if you need to, work at it.
What was your first-ever shoot like?
My first shoot was actually at the meeting with CM Models. But it was a big, bright studio shoot with professional photographer Oliver Rudolph. Of course, I was a bit excited. After all, I didn’t know if they would be happy with my results. But everything went very well. I had so much fun!
Who are your style icons? And who would be your dream publication or person to work with?
I have always been a fan of the classic fashion style. It is timeless and so elegant. Role models like David Gandy, David Beckham, Jude Law, Sean O’ Pry, or George Clooney. You could look at such old pictures of them, they always look top dressed and fit for any occasion. It’s never too much or too little. Nevertheless, my biggest fashion idol is and remains Ralph Lauren. To imagine that I could model for or work with this brand would be an absolute dream.
What’s the most important thing that you’ve learned so far?
Patience. Being patient and staying strong is the most important thing. Especially in the beginning, you go into business with different expectations. It is essential to have enough photo material. You don’t necessarily need jobs for this; test shoots are enough. Of course, as in any other industry, you make mistakes. But you should never let them show.
How has your career influenced your style?
Since then, I dress much more chic and elegant. However, I have permanently attached great importance to my appearance, but rather to young, studious looks. Depending on the occasion, I prefer insanely in preppy style. As soon as it tends to the model business, modern, cool and classic looks come.
What is one thing you can’t live without Pascal de Vries?
The most important thing in my life is and will always be my family. They always stick together and are there for you. I have a big family with a great relationship and often throw parties. I miss them all the more when I am away for a long time. That’s why I could never do without them!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
That’s a fascinating question. Life goes strange ways. Besides modeling, I’m still studying business law and want to get my master’s degree in business administration. My dream is to make it big as a model and even start in the acting scene. Of course, I want to make it big and continue to work on my goals. I study because it interests me. If you ask people, almost no one does professionally what they learned or planned to do back then. Who knows what I can apply it to later. I’m always excited about what’s next!
What don’t you want to die wondering about?
I live my life as I see fit. I tend to think less about this topic. But when I reflect on my life someday, I want to say I lived it right. EVERYONE should live the way they want to and be happy doing it. Life is too short of taking everything too seriously.
Catch Pascal On Instagram: @pascal_devries
Management Team: CM Models / @cmxmodels