Hailing from steel city Sheffield, up and coming model Imogen Parker was scouted at Clothes Show Live by Select Model Management last December. Since then, the 16 year old has gone on to score an impressive number of photo shoots, as well as front this year’s campaign for Clothes Show Live’s Bright Young Things.
Following the likes of other Clothes Show models Oliver Cheshire, Rosie Tapner, and Erin O’Connor, the teenager is one to keep your on your fashion radar as she’s sure to take the fashion world by storm.
With her head screwed on the right way, we were impressed with just how professional the teenager was, when we caught up with her last week to discuss her ‘scouting’ experience, how she juggles modelling with schooling and what she’s most looking forward to about this year’s Clothes Show.
HTF: You were scouted at last year’s Clothes Show Live, could you tell our readers a little bit about that experience?
IP: I was at the Clothes Show on a school trip, when a model scout came up to me and asked me if I’d considered modelling. They took me to the select stand and I had photos and measurements taken. I was told I’d get a call if they were interested, but wasn’t expecting anything. The next day I got a call inviting me and the family down to London for a test shoot and to learn about the industry. We travelled down, it was a great day, and we were made very welcome! At the end of the day some other girls who were scouted and I were signed up!
HTF: How has your life changed since being scouted?
IP: It hasn’t changed drastically because it was the months before my GCSE exams and life was hectic! But the shoots I have done have been so much fun! I did work experience in London, which has convinced me I want to give modelling a proper shot because it was so much fun going to castings and go sees! One thing being scouted has done is made me more confident in myself and how I look – something I was lacking before.
HTF: Sounds great! Whats been your favourite campaign/modelling experience so far?
IP: My favourite experience has been the Clothes Show Bright Young Thing Campaign, we shot 9 looks and everyone on set was so lovely. The shoot will probably always be one of my favourite as it was my first. I also enjoyed a test shoot with James Pearson-Howes because it was more relaxed and just fun!
HTF: You’re still 16. Is it hard to manage your day to day life with the world of fashion and modelling?
IP: No, not at all, I’m just 16 and Select are very good with making sure most things stick to school holidays so I’ve never had to worry about clashes. Also my school are very understanding and happy for me to take time off if needed.
HTF: Have you always had an interest in fashion and wanted to be a model prior to Clothes Show?
IP: I’ve always been interested in fashion and modelling, watching shows like BNTM and wondered what it would be like to be a model. But I’d never considered modelling myself before. It was a shock when I was scouted in December!
HTF: Whats your own personal style like?
IP: I wouldn’t say I have a particular style, although at the minute i’m into vintage style clothing. I love looking round little boutiques and second hand stores finding quirky and different pieces.
HTF: Are you excited to this years Clothes Show?
IP: Yes I’m very excited! I love Clothes Show and all the different stalls and amazing deals on make up! I’m most looking forward to the big catwalk because I aspire to do catwalk shows one day!
HTF: Finally, is there any advice you’d like to give to aspiring models?
IP: Be yourself and be healthy, drinking lots of water and exercising to stay in shape. Also be confident, even if you’re not confident, fake it!
