The power of two proves beneficial for these aspiring fashion icons,
In ancient mythology, twins were said to be
particularly auspicious. When you consider the success of identical twin models
Jordan and Zac Stenmark, such a myth seems to ring true. But successful as they
may be, fate has little to do with it.
Having grown up in Clifton Gardens on Sydney's north shore, Jordan and Zac were
aware of fashion – indeed, their aunt, Susie Stenmark, was until recently the
head of communications for Chanel’s Australian office – but it wasn’t on their
radar as far as a career. Graduates from St Ignatius' College in 2010, the
twins both enrolled to study a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics at Sydney
University – a course that, it should be noted, typically requires a NSW score
of around 80 – and, having only attended classes for a few months before beginning
modeling fulltime, are both keen to complete the degree when time permits.
But despite their obvious zeal for and success modeling today, Messrs Stenmark
were initially skeptical of making it. “We didn’t have a clue what would happen,”
says Jordan of signing to Viviens Model Management’s Sydney division in early
2010 at the suggestion of a friend. “We went in wanting to do it part time for
a bit of fun, to learn a bit about another industry. I don’t think either of us
thought we would have done some of the things we have since then. It just wasn’t
on our radar.”
Messrs Stenmark have, by and large, impressed the photographers they have since
worked with, which today includes Bruce Weber and Terry Richardson. As
Australian-born, London-based photographer Paul Scala, who shot the twins for
this feature, says: “The unique thing about the Stenmark twins is the extra
element they bring to the camera when they interact with one another.” It was
Mr Scala’s first time shooting Messrs Stenmark, “but I now see what all the
fuss is about. It goes beyond their big smiles and towering frames.”
“They’re twins, yes, but the fact that they are also so well-educated,
disciplined and easy-going, [and thus] represent my clothes very well, is what
makes them special,” says Italo Zucchelli, the creative director of menswear
for Calvin Klein Collection, the upper-tier, runway line of the American
fashion giant. For the brand’s fall 2012 and spring 2013 presentations at Milan
Fashion Week, Mr Zucchelli booked Messrs Stenmark exclusively for his show –
that is, they are forbidden to walk for any other designers, exponentially increasing
the brands’ industry credibility for the market power that such arrangements
wield – and since, has forged a strong relationship with the models that has
seen them invited as guests to its special events, including one atop the Duomo
in Milan, Italy, in 2012.
“We have always been open-minded to the situation we're in and approached
[modeling] with the mindset that we had nothing to lose,” says Jordan. “Obviously
we get nervous, but working [with one another] makes it easier.” That they are
identical twins is, of course, part of the Stenmarks’ broad appeal to
photographers and clients, for the rarity of having not one, but two
genetically gifted men is certainly attractive. But aesthetics aside, the twins’
familial chemistry is evident in the ease with which they work together and
positively impacts the images they create. “We grew up playing so much sport
together and just know what the other is thinking, so there’s great chemistry
before you even get on set,” explains Zac. “It’s great because you’re able to
work with your brother and your best mate and have some really funny times
while you’re at work.”
The average age and length of career of a high-end fashion model is not exactly
an enticing prospect for those aspiring to enter the industry, and with the
arduous hours and constant physical requirements, there is little wonder that
many fizzle out after a few seasons on the runway circuit, whether out of
physical or mental exhaustion. Messrs Stenmark concede that the challenges are
many. “You come straight of school and thrown into the deep end, travelling and
working around the clock,” says Jordan.
As a dual force, Messrs Stenmark have their sights set far beyond next season’s
campaign, though if anyone’s asking, they’re keen to bag one with the likes of
Tom Ford, Hermes or a skincare label. “We want to make this experience as
beneficial as possible,” explains Zac of their plans in the industry. “At the
same time, it’s about taking each thing as it comes and having fun with it,
because it’s such a dynamic and ever-changing industry.” In terms of their
longevity, however, there are whispers of moving beyond the photographic studio
and into a role that allows them to show a little more of their own
personalities. A talk show? Maybe not just yet, but with an extensive social
media following – the pair took to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram early on,
amassing a continually-growing following – it’s certainly not out of the
question.
Explaining the use of social media, Zac says it was about delineating their
private lives from their public profile. “So many people tried to contact us on
Facebook after we started [modeling] and were interested in who we are and what
we’re doing, so we thought if they’re interested, let’s give it to them, and it’s
only gotten bigger and bigger.” Adds Jordan: “As much as people can see you in
print, there are things that we’re personally passionate about and interested
in, and I think this gives insight into who we are as people.”
As a result of their recent contract with modeling powerhouse IMG – both
locally and in New York – Messrs Stenmark have been playing the social
circuit, appearing at launch events, movie premieres and as ambassadors for
various organisations. While in Sydney for the summer break, they attended the
Australians in New York Fashion Foundation finalist event, having met its
founder Malcolm Carfrae through their business relationship with Calvin Klein, where
he serves as Vice President of Global Communications. This, they tell, is
something they’re interested in helping promote. “We have been part of the
industry a short time,” says Zac, “but if we can help anyone, like by
supporting this program, then that’s great. We’re honoured to do so.”
Does modeling still give them the same thrill
as it did on those first few test shoots? “Every day is different and as we do
more and more it becomes easier and in some ways more fun,” says Jordan. “I’ve
learnt so much about all of these cities and cultures at such a young age,”
adds Zac, “and that’s really an incredible privilege. You have to be organised
and focused and prepared 100% of the time, but I think we have both matured in
a really good way and have a much stronger sense of the world today.”
Photography Assistance Matteo Macri | Post Production Postmen
