PAIGE — Soul

THE BOLD

Photographed in a second-level studio apartment nestled in the heart of the Bronx and in the streets of the surrounding neighborhood, the “New Faces of Fashion Month” editorial evokes juxtapositional senses of comfort and confinement. Eighteen year old model Paige Lemek takes us on a journey as she shares her evolution within the modeling industry and showcases her blossoming grace in the editorial sector.

Paige’s bold elegance paired with the refined structure of the garments chosen for the shoot create the perfect combination for an Alexander Wang-inspired editorial. Influenced by the brand’s ability to capture the subtle movement of everyday life in New York City, SOUL chose masculine-inspired strong basics for city living, while simultaneously paying no mind to traditional gender norms.

IMAGE.

“New Faces of Fashion Month” is about models who ignore the status quo. They know that in order to stand out, one must be different -- and Paige’s biggest piece of advice for aspiring models is to, “stick to your look...that is what will truly set you apart.” And in this light, Paige is perfect for this shoot. Her strong jawline and bold brows combined with her delicate nose and contoured lips make her a uniquely elegant new face that the fashion industry needs. Paige’s tomboyish style is reflected in her editorial look: the long, fit-and-flare suit jacket, pinstriped pants, and block-heeled boots elicit a sense of cultured confidence that Paige so clearly conveys in her distinctive poses and facial expressions.

HER.

Paige also teaches us about persistence. After stumbling into the modeling industry upon being scouted at one of her tap dancing performances, Paige’s passion for modeling quickly grew. She nurtured her newfound love by taking classes on walking and posing, and began to push to pursue her career in New York. She fell ill, however, and her pursuit came to a crashing halt; but that did not stop her. She taught herself how to walk again, and although there is no cure for her condition, her future is limitless as she continues to work towards her goal of being on the cover of Vogue.

Paige and her role in this editorial teach us about the importance of individuality and determination within society today. The powerful, youthful vibe that she brings to the dark, urban energy of this editorial truly make Paige Lemek a new face of Fashion Month.

Article written by: Ellie Kim, Contributor at SOUL