Rïn Models Success Story
Before Lucinda Soy signed to Rïŋ Models, Australia’s first dark-skinned modelling agency, she was at the brink of quitting modelling entirely.
Now, Soy has a major couture campaign under her belt and has just made her VAMFF runway debut. We spoke to this rising model about her diversity, beauty standards and her journey in fashion so far.
Congratulations on the beautiful Paolo Sebastian 2020 campaign, The Passage of Spring. You’ve worked with PS on the runway before in Adelaide and now Melbourne.
How did that relationship come to be?
I had gone to a casting for AFF a few years back and after that, the Paolo Sebastian team called me back for a second casting and I walked for them that year and again the year after.
What is your favourite Paolo Sebastian look that you’ve modelled?
I’ve been enamoured with the embroidered flocked tulle gown with draped bodice and bishop sleeves from the 2020 spring/summer collection. I love the details on the material, the shape of the dress and how it makes me feel like Juliet Capulet.
Can you tell us a bit about signing with Rïŋ Models?
It has been a journey! I wanted to quit modelling before signing with Rin. Juach and Alyssa had a vision for me that I didn’t even see in myself but I trusted them and with their love, support and encouragement, I have grown the confidence to believe and see what they saw from the beginning.
Why do you think diversity in the fashion industry is important?
It’s important because from my personal experience, to see someone who looks like you or is different shows that you don’t have to fit into a box to be viewed as beautiful. In the recent past the “typical standard of beauty” meant to racially “fit in”, this created all types of insecurities, and I definitely felt insecure growing up. Luckily, this “standard of beauty” is changing, the industry is shifting to be more inclusive and diverse, which I feel is a more honest reflection of our multicultural society.
What’s been the biggest highlight of your modelling journey so far?
So far I would say the latest Paolo campaign, its something I am immensely proud to be a part of.
What’s the most rewarding thing about modelling?
The most rewarding thing about modelling is being a part of bringing someone’s vision to life. Whether it be clothes or an art concept.
The most challenging?
Fighting my introverted tendencies.
What goes through your mind when you’re walking down the runway in couture?
“Don’t trip”, “The shoes don’t hurt that bad” and “strut, strut, strut”
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Best advice you’ve ever received?
Whatever happens, is meant to happen.
It seems like such a mundane thing to say but sometimes being able to just throw away the weight of certain things that have happened and think “this is just a step to something better” can really pull you out of the pit.
Any words of wisdom for aspiring models?
Don’t let the negativity of the industry break you down, you are more than the no’s.
What’s next for you?
I’ve recently moved to Melbourne to pursue modelling in a more holistic approach. I’m not entirely sure what’s next but hopefully bigger and better.
Want to learn more about Rïŋ Models? Check out our interview with its founder Juach Cyer here.
