Karen Elson has learned that being a “pick me” is no way to earn respect in the modelling industry.
The 47-year-old is one of the world’s biggest supermodels, having appeared on the cover of Vogue Italy on her 18th birthday, as well as working with some of the world’s biggest photographers and designers.
But she hasn’t got to where she is today by begging to land jobs.
Asked by Vogue how she would suggest wannabe models earn respect in the industry, she replied: “Don’t be a ‘pick me’.
“I’ve learnt I’m an acquired taste and that not giving my energy to everyone who asks for it is a form of self-respect.
“If people don’t like me, that’s fine. I’m not desperate.”
As for the “biggest cliché” in the modelling world, she said: “Anyone who reduces models to mindless beauties is not paying attention.
“It takes tenacity, grit and smarts to survive.”
The quick fire Q A session also saw Karen asked to name the best gift she’s ever received, to which she said: “When I released my album, The Ghost Who Walks, in 2010, I invited people to design dresses inspired by the artwork.
“Unbeknown to me, my five-year-old daughter asked my then husband to have her own sketch made into one.
“It’s multicoloured and still one of the most meaningful things I own.”
When it comes to how Karen feels her “most beautiful”, she said it’s when she’s “not dressed for any gaze but my own”, without any make-up and with her hair slicked back.
While the best way she can get ready in five minutes flat is with a “swipe of Kissme Heroine Make Micro Mascara, Victoria Beckham Beauty’s Foundation Drops, her Bitten Lip Tint in Bisou and a touch of her Colour Wash Blush in Vintage Rose”.
Vogue concluded their Q A by asking Karen which ghost she’d like to have haunt her, with Karen replying: “My first love passed away when I was 21, and I’ve always felt like his little spirit comes and haunts me every so often, in the best possible of ways.
“I’d like him to keep doing that.”
