Between modelling in London, Australia, and running her medicinal mushroom company in New Zealand, Jess is astute at allocating her time – and her energy – where it counts. 

Speaking of time, this isn’t Jess’ first rodeo gracing the pages of Fashion Quarterly magazine. At the very beginning of her modelling career, Jess featured in an editorial when she was just 16-years-old. “I flew up for the shoot [from Palmerston North] and had my hair sprayed into a grey bird’s nest,” recalls Jess. “It was very Tim Walker vibes and I looked like a deer in the headlights for every shot” 

Almost ten years later, she was the 2019 cover star for our autumn ‘Down to Earth’ issue. And more recently, we published an article on her and best friend and co-founder Emily Blanchett showcasing their business Mother Made. “Thanks for growing with me!” 

When reflecting on her modelling highlights, Jess cites walking for Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs, and Emilio Pucci as some of her favourites. But it was her spot walking on the Victoria’s Secret runway that cemented her It-Girl status on the world stage in 2011 propelling her career. “I was the first New Zealander and Māori to walk VS, so my family was proud.”

Next up, the now 29-year-old will be London-bound and “freezing [her] arse off” for more work and events – a disappointing departure from New Zealand’s warmer climate as we approach the new year. Jess’ nonchalance, which translates into her enviable off-duty style, is a refreshing reminder that at her core, she’s still a relatable Kiwi at heart who, like us, has to make sacrifices to maintain a healthy life balance. 

“I feel like I have a high threshold to do both work and life. Sometimes I can feel myself burn out though, so I listen to my body and bunker down. I fell asleep in yoga today and woke up to myself snoring so I won’t be going out this weekend!”

As for her secret weapon to feel on top of life? Jess’s morning routine non-negotiable is a cup of mushroom coffee. “I never miss it! It gives me the energy minus the anxiety and afternoon crash normal coffee gives me.”

While we’re sad to see Jess leave our shores, we know that it’s only a matter of time before we will see her again soon. Until then, keep your eyes peeled for more from FQ’s summer cover star, and read on for a snapshot into what keeps this model ticking.