Jake and Chops take to the runway for Jack London
Milan is a world apart from Melbourne. Arguably the fashion capital, Milan presented young Australian model Jake Sofo with a whole new set of expectations. “We want you to look hungry, the hungry look is what we are going for” was the advice given to Jake when signing with Italian agency 2morrow Management. The fast paced, intense environment of Italy, unknown to the laid back Melbourne boy, ultimately caused him to question if modeling was really his passion.
Sofo 21, a self confessed ‘indie’ in terms of style, enters the room looking trendy and relaxed in black skinny jeans and a perfectly fitted white t-shirt. Jake began modeling at the age of 18 apprehensive about the ‘model lifestyle’ portrayed by the media. After agreeing to take preliminary cover shots he soon found a love for the industry and reinvented the ‘model’ image into his own.
Jake finds the subject of weight in the modeling world noticeably disturbing. After being advised to conform to the ‘hungry look’ whilst in Milan, Sofo questioned whether the extreme lifestyle changes were really worth it. Deciding to make the most of the opportunities presented, Jake reluctantly complied and lost over 8kg in just one short month. “I felt unhealthy, and just tired ALL the time.” Jake explains, “Italy was an amazing experience, but working with friends down at Bondi is right up there with my most memorable shoots”. Milan provided Jake with new opportunities and challenges, but most importantly gave him perspective on what his priorities were.
For Jake, his philosophy towards modeling and life in general is simple; “be yourself in everything you do”. It’s this laid back attitude that Jake lives by and continues to share with those around him. Not falling into the party scene, Jake prefers to keep busy by working at his family’s restaurants, playing sport and hanging with his girlfriend. Jake however, isn’t the only good looking guy in his family with his British bulldog ‘Chops’ proving solid competition. Chops was cast by Australian label, Jack London, for the L’Oreal Melbourne fashion festival. After accompanying Chops to the rehearsals, Jake was also signed and together they graced the catwalk.
Jake has taken the male model stereotype and turned it on it’s head, representing a new generation of young models. With killer good looks and a personality to match, this young mans future looks bright.
And he’s not the least bit hungry.
This post was written by
Bella is a lover of all things fashion. Currently majoring in Media and Communications she has found a love for blogs and engaging with alternate media forms. Labelled by her friends and family as 'the next Anna Wintour', Bella's lifelong dream is to be the editor-of-chief of her very own high fashion magazine. Until then, she channels her undying love of fashion into writing stylish pieces for Melbourne Riff Raff.
