Rae is the first female to join Brother Models who cater to represent the underrepresented. Born and raised in London, Rae encaptures the essence of natural, edgy and tomboy swag. In a short space of time, Rae has managed to make waves in the modelling world, firstly by shooting with GQ style and Attitude magazine to featuring in Emeli Sande’s ‘Garden’ video. Last year, Rae also modelled for Shortlist magazines’ 10th year anniversary and it doesn’t seem like she’s stopping there.
I took some time to catch up with Rae and explore her journey becoming a model out to break stereotypes and pave the way for upcoming diverse talent.
What inspired you to start modelling?
I would say it was more of an opportunity like I never thought I’d be a model. People would tell me I should get into modelling especially my nana she always said I’d be a model. I used to kind of cringe at the idea of being one, I think it was more of a thing where I didn’t wanna be your typical female model. I would look for modelling agencies for androgynous models but I couldn’t find much because I didn’t really know where to look and then I gave up. I would say I started modelling professionally in 2016 but I have done bits of modelling before that I did afro hair and beauty show when I was about 15, my picture was in Black Beauty Magazine. I’ve also done modelling for a mate of mine that founded Studz UK Clothing.
How did it feel becoming Brother models first female model?
Until this day it’s still a bit overwhelming. I feel truly honoured to be able to have this opportunity to represent women like me, it honestly means a lot to be able to be accepted for you and not have somebody try to change your image or anything like that. It makes you feel inclusive within society.
Models like me are needed because there are so many women that wear men’s clothes and wear them well but don’t get to see it marketed to them, I love the fact that its called Brother Models and I’m on the books it’s like Brothers can be women too! I think my agent is brave for pushing the boundaries when it comes to having your typical model.
You have done shoots for Vogue Homme online, GQ style and Attitude Magazine how did you come across these opportunities and what has been your most memorable shoot?
All of these opportunities came from my agency. They would either approach my agency or I would go to a casting.
I would say all of my shoots are memorable so far because I’m just starting out, but I would say this GQ shoot I did, I got to wear a suit and anyone that knows me knows I love a suit, I think it will be one I will always remember because I’d say it was my first big shoot with Brother.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
My Biggest challenge so far I would say is stepping out of my comfort zone trying to be more expressive. Getting bookings can be quite challenging at times because although my agent is breaking barriers in the fashion world not just with me but with all his models, I don’t think the majority of the model world wants to change in the sense that all your supermodels look the same! Fashion & society is changing so I think we need more diversity in representation.
What strengths do you feel you need to possess as a model?
I feel like you need be confident, open-minded, creative, free, expressive and consistent. You have to be able to prioritise and be organised, however never lose yourself. I think a good attitude is important and professional. Also, you should be able to deal with rejection at times.
What advice would you give an aspiring model?
I would say go for it. Follow your dreams, approach agencies and build a portfolio. Go to castings, there’s gonna be some jobs you may not get picked for but don’t let that put you off. keep at it and keep going. Like with everything else hard work pays off.
What has modelling taught you?
It has taught me more confidence, I can be shy at times, but when it comes to modelling there’s no time for shyness. As I get more into it I’m sure I’ll learn more.
Do you feel the photoshoot projects you are involved in, challenge you as a person?
Generally, I don’t think the majority of the projects challenge me as a person, but there was this one shoot that was completely out of my comfort zone when I arrived I didn’t know it was women’s wear and the photographer was like ‘so have you’ve never done women’s’. I was like noooo, I had no clue it was a women’s clothing shoot so at this point I felt a bit awkward. Anyway, I went through the clothes and chose what I felt comfortable in, I could have gone home but for me, it was about compromising making the best out of a bad situation.
Who would you love to work/collaborate with in the future?
I would love to work in more high-end fashion because I feel like women like me still need to be represented by the top designers. I would love to work with people from the LGBT community, maybe stud designers.
What can we expect next?
Well I’m not sure if I can say much but I may be getting on another agency’s books as well as Brothers. They deal with bigger brands and international work, so hopefully I will experience travelling to another country to shoot, that would be dope!
Photography: Karis Beaumont