“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is how to deal with rejection.” A Moment with Lauren Alexander

Lauren Alexander shares her biggest life lesson from her modeling career: “There’s no point getting hung up on something that didn’t work out. It’s more important to concentrate on what could come next and how to grow from the rejection.” Discovered by her current modeling agency at the tender age of 11, it’s evident that modeling serendipitously found her. In our captivating interview, Lauren, who is with Colours Agency, candidly delves into her iconic Guess campaign, the ever-evolving landscape of the fashion realm, offering insights into her daily routine, and whimsically sharing her aspirations and dreams. And we are also super excited to share this wonderful photo shooting with the amazing team containing of photographer Alan Morgan, Makeup by Kat McSwein, and Stylist SOS Styling.

Lauren, what inspired you to become a model?

I was scouted by my mother agent – Colours Agency when I was only 11 years old! So, for me, modelling just kind of happened instead of seeking it out. However, I do take inspiration from a lot of models, especially 90s supermodels like Kate Moss or Claudia Schiffer! I love their classic campaigns and images; they are always on my mood board for test shoots. Aside from them, my biggest inspiration in modelling is my big sister, Eilidh, who was only 15 when she was signed as a model. Having my big sister to look up to in the modelling world has been really helpful, seeing the opportunities that modelling has provided her definitely kept me on track and inspired me to keep going. Her career showed me what was possible but also taught me valuable lessons.

Congratulations on your journey with Guess as a model. What has this experience been like for you?

The experience of working with Guess has been nothing but amazing! I’ve never experienced working with a company as big as Guess and going into it, I didn’t know what to expect. When Paul Marciano messaged me on Instagram I was super excited but could never have imagined that 1 week later I was flying to Switzerland for my first shoot. In the five months I’ve worked with them, I’ve shot two campaigns, have done two-line opening shows and two line reviews, and I shoot for their e-commerce as well. As daunting as it was being the new girl for a while, it’s so lovely to work with the same photographers, MUA’s and models over and over again and it creates a lovely atmosphere full of likeminded people. Working closely with Paul Marciano has been a blessing, he’s a very driven and inspirational person who genuinely cares and looks after us all. I always look forward to working with them and hopefully it’s something that will continue for many years!

In an industry known for its challenges, how do you ensure your safety and rights are protected?

The modelling industry is definitely a much safer and more inclusive industry than it used to be which is helpful. It’s important for me to be able to say no and express when I’m not comfortable. Having entire trust in my mother agency and the bookers there who have watched me grow up puts me at ease. I know they would never put me in a bad situation, and I trust their expertise and experience. Building relationships and trust within the industry and with bookers is extremely important.

“The modelling industry is definitely a much safer and more inclusive industry than it used to be which is helpful.”

What’s one life lesson you’ve learned that always stays with you?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is how to deal with rejection. In modelling, rejection is a big part of it. I always remind myself not to let my hopes get high and to protect myself from disappointment! If I wasn’t able to do this, I think I would find modelling a lot harder. But I’m also a strong believer in what’s for you won’t go by you and that everything happens for a reason. There is no point getting hung up on something that didn’t work out, it’s more important to concentrate on what could come next and how to grow from the rejection!

Your Instagram has a summery, romantic vibe. How do you choose your content?

I enjoy taking pictures especially during summer and on holidays so posting on Instagram Is always fun. I like posting pictures from shoots and having a cohesive feed especially considering that sometimes jobs can come from Instagram! Using it as a portfolio is something I’m working on.

Do you have a bucket-list destination?

My bucket list destination is Australia. I have family based out there and I’ve spent some time there over the years. I lived and worked in the Whitsundays for three months when I was 18 and it’s my dream to go back and maybe live there full time one day. I dream of visiting western Australia as well! Everything about Australia is amazing, the lifestyle, the weather, and the scenery is all beautiful. (much better than rainy Scotland!)

What’s a typical day like for you?

I don’t really have a typical day. A lot of jobs can come through last minute and there is lots of travelling required so each week is different. When I do have a free week, I enjoy structure and try to fill my day doing things I enjoy and making my favourite foods. I catch up on uni work or Classes I’ve missed, and I spent time with my friends that I live with, or I see my boyfriend. Of course, I end every day with a phone call with my mum though!

Who is the most important person in your life?

There are lots of important people in my life! My mum and dad are a massive part of my life and I learn a lot from them. They are both very hard working, and I try and recreate that in my own life. I’m very thankful for everything they have done for me and for always supporting me. I have a great group of friends, most I’ve been friends with since the age of 1 and we have grown up together, their friendship is really important to me. My boyfriend is very supportive and with his career in football, I’ve learned a lot from him about dedication and resilience. Of course, my grandparents, my sister, and every member of my family as well, I’m very lucky to have such an amazing and encouraging family.

As always, the future is uncertain. Nevertheless, the question: Where do you see yourself in the future?

I hope that my future is happy and healthy and surrounded by my family and friends! I hope for modelling to continue for as long and maybe lead to a job behind the scenes of the fashion industry in styling or advertising but I’m happy to just see where life takes me!