As the breakout model of New Zealand Fashion Week in 2016, it was always clear Jordan Daniels was going to be a star.
Fast forward two years and the South African-born beauty made her international fashion week debut in September 2018, walking for the likes of Prada, Valentino, Chloe, Alexander McQueen and Off-White – no mean feat for a girl from New Zealand.
After being discovered at age 17 by 62 Models, Jordan has slowly built up her portfolio, starring in campaigns for Mi Piaci, Miss Guided, Forever 21 and Harman Grubisa, and shoots for the likes of Fashion Quarterly. This was before landing her Prada exclusive in September; a move which has saw her become one of the top models at Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks for Spring/Summer ’18 and land a coveted sportswear campaign for Calvin Klein to be released early next year.
We sit down with the 20-year-old self-proclaimed tomboy to find out what Paris Fashion Week is really like, how she handled walking the runway with Bella Hadid, plus we hit her up for her beauty secrets and favourite travel hot spots.
What was it like walking in the SS18 shows for the likes of Prada, Chloe, Miu Miu and Off-White?
It was such a surreal experience! When Emma Boyd and I walked for Prada we were literally just hugging and saying how amazing it was. I am still in disbelief. I rubbed shoulders with some of the top designers, hair stylists, makeup artists and stylists in the world; it’s insane to be surrounded by that much creativity and work ethic.
How did you prepare?
I honestly didn’t. With Prada I flew into Milan for the casting and two days later I walked the show. Being my first international show, everything happened super fast and before I knew it, it was over. With these kinds of shows you always hear about models being cancelled last minute—sometimes even in the line up before they walk out—so I never got my hopes up too high. I just waited until I walked the show and then I freaked out!
What’s a typical day like during Paris Fashion Week?
Once I had three shows in one day, other days I had one show with two castings and a fitting, so every day is so different. It can be really draining and crazy running from the Metro station into a casting to another fitting and then possibly having a show that evening too, but you make it work. On one day my agency got me a motorcyclist to ride me from one show to the next because it was the fastest option!
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Tell us what it’s like walking alongside some of the biggest names in the industry like Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber.
They are so nice and really down to earth. At the end of the day we are all there to do the same job, it’s not intimidating – it’s inspiring! They are all so lovely and have great energy. It was a huge blessing to be considered for shows that had such big name models and a real confidence booster to be walking with them.
What was the biggest highlight of SS18 for you?
Definitely my Prada exclusive, it was such an amazing opportunity.
Who do you look up to in the industry?
I definitely look up to a lot of models in the industry, in particular Adut Akech and Vittoria Ceretti.
Tell me about your move to London?
I lived in London for three months this year for work, it was really cool – I miss it so much. The city has such an amazing vibe and is quite similar to New Zealand culture, so I felt right at home. I currently live in New York in a model apartment.
Do you ever get homesick?
Honestly no, not anymore. I’ve been living overseas for so long so I’ve adapted to this type of lifestyle. I love experiencing new cities, making new friends and of course, trying international food!
What designers are currently on your radar?
I would love to work for Chanel, Saint Laurent, Calvin Klein, Coach, Burberry… the list goes on.
How would you describe your beauty routine?
It’s very simple. I wash my face twice a day, use Witch Hazel Toner and always stay moisturised. I also carry a rose water spray in my bag, which I use throughout the day to keep my face nice and hydrated.
What do you do to stay in shape?
I eat generally healthy and try to stay active. If I feel like getting my sweat on, I love hot yoga.
Who are you currently listening to?
Kanye West, Travis Scott and I always have my old Biggie tunes.
Describe yourself in three words?
Loud, funny and sassy!
Where is the best place you have travelled to for work?
Milan. I loved Italy so much.
What’s next on your travel list?
For the meantime I’ll be in New York and hopefully will end up back in London.
How would you describe your style?
Very boyish and simple. I always have a chain or two and I love sneakers.
What are some of your most recent projects?
W Korea, L’Officiel USA and I have a bunch of exciting things in the works.
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What tips would you give to aspiring models in the industry?
I think you need to be sure of yourself and who you are and never forget where you come from. I’ve met a lot of Australian and New Zealand models that can sometimes appear stuck up or snobbish, which is sad as they are probably just shy. We should all be grateful, friendly and genuine because we’re all in the same boat, being alone and away from our families. So it’s nice to have cool girls around that are just really nice people.
How do you deal with rejection?
It does take a little while to adjust to hearing people saying no to you all the time, but once you receive that yes, it’s all worth it! When one door closes it means that it wasn’t meant to be. 100% whatever is supposed to be yours will be yours.
What’s next for you?
For now I’m keeping my head down, working hard, enjoying my life and continuing to manifest good energy. What goes around really does come around and I’m so blessed to have received so many opportunities this year.
