In a revealing conversation that bridges generations, two models - one at the beginning of her career and another with decades of experience - have opened up about the harsh realities of the fashion industry, from the pressure to maintain appearances to the looming threat of artificial intelligence.
The Generation Gap in Glamour
At just 27, one model represents the new guard navigating an industry obsessed with youth, while her 62-year-old counterpart brings wisdom from decades in front of the camera. Their dialogue exposes how little has fundamentally changed in modelling's demanding landscape.
"You definitely felt disposable," the younger model reveals, capturing the transient nature of modelling careers where today's 'it girl' can become tomorrow's afterthought.
The Botox Conversation
Both women discussed the pervasive pressure to undergo cosmetic procedures. "It's not about if you'll get Botox, but when," the older model noted, highlighting how preventative treatments have become normalised across age groups in their industry.
The 62-year-old shared her personal journey with cosmetic interventions, while her younger colleague confessed to considering early interventions to prolong her career longevity.
Weight Loss Pressures and Creative Expression
The conversation turned to body image, with both models acknowledging the industry's relentless focus on physical appearance. "The pressure to maintain a certain weight never really disappears," the experienced model explained, "it just evolves as your career does."
Yet amidst these challenges, both women find creative fulfilment in their work. They described modelling as an artistic collaboration rather than mere photography, emphasising the emotional and creative dimensions that often go unseen.
The AI Threat Looms Large
Perhaps the most urgent topic was artificial intelligence's encroachment on their profession. Both models expressed concern about AI-generated imagery replacing human models.
"It's terrifying to think that algorithms could make our entire profession obsolete," the younger model admitted. Her older counterpart added that while technology has always evolved, AI represents an existential threat unlike any they've faced before.
Their conversation serves as both a warning and an inspiration - a testament to resilience in an industry where the only constant is change, and the latest disruption might not be human at all.