MODA Model Interview: Julian Santesteban and Hesper He

What is it like to model for MODA? Here’s a chance to hear what last year’s models, Julian Santesteban and Hesper He, have to say about their show experience, personal fashion tastes, and more!

Why did you decide to model for the MODA fashion show? Was it your first time modeling for the show?

Julian: I really enjoy working on art projects in general. For modeling specifically, I really enjoy having people dress me. Picking outfits can sometimes be stressful, so having someone else do it in a creative way is a lot of fun. Being the center of attention for a little bit doesn’t hurt either. 

Hesper: One of my best friends has been engaged in MODA since our first year and I have been seeing the shoots/designs she has done for MODA—they honestly look so cool! That makes me want to get a taste of MODA too. Specifically, my friends have been telling me that I should try modeling because I am pretty tall. I also love the idea of embodying design ideas through a runway walk. And yes, it was absolutely my first time modeling— I was so so so nervous!

How were you feeling during the days leading up to the show?

Julian: I was very excited. Honestly, one of the things I was most looking forward to was the backstage/prep element. Seeing everyone’s outfits and getting ready for the show. I was nervous about posing and walking a bit since I had never modeled before. I found myself practicing my walk on my way to class or up and down my hall at home.

Hesper: It was really a mix of excitement and anxiety. I got to try on the full outfit with boots a couple of days before the show and it felt surreal to see myself all dressed up. I did not have any specific expectations since it was my first show, so I was a bit anxious too—especially the part of walking in front of the whole audience.

How did you prepare for the show? What was the process like from the start (applying, practices/fittings, your general feelings throughout, etc.)?

Julian: My designer reached out to me last minute since one of her models dropped out, so I did not have to go through the whole application process. Fitting was just two quick measuring sessions to adjust the outfit to my size. I mentioned a bit earlier that to prepare I would practice my walk and poses at random times throughout my day. Initially, I filmed myself walking and then adjusted it until I got a walk I liked. Then I would practice it for quick 5-second intervals multiple times a day so that I remembered how it felt.

Hesper: I signed up for the model call and got selected. We went through several practices where you were asked to walk on a runway, do poses, and were given feedback. In terms of fittings, my designer reached out to me and took my measurement. We had a try-on after she finished my outfit and she made more adjustments to the fit after the try-on. I would say the whole process is pretty chill and enjoyable!

What were your feelings during the day of the show and the actual show? When did the day start and what was the process for the day of the show?

Julian: The day of the show I ended class at 11:30 am and then went to wait for the shuttles. Our shuttles got lost; I remember feeling frustrated at having to wait an hour at Reynold’s Club. I knew I was getting there early though so I was not nervous about not getting hair and makeup. Arriving at 1-ish pm, I got my hair and makeup done immediately and then from there, it was just a bunch of waiting around till rehearsals and the show. Honestly, I got pretty exhausted from standing around all day and could have used a nap but did not want to ruin my hair. My nerves only really hit while we were lined up during the show. I started getting really cold. About 5 seconds before I was supposed to walk, my heart started racing. I took some controlled slow breaths to try to slow it. During the walk itself, I completely zoned out. I heard people yelling my name but, I had tunnel vision. It went by so fast. Afterward, it was a combination of relief from being done and also thinking of things I could have done better (the two times I stumbled slightly were definitely on my mind).

Hesper: I had to ditch my Booth class on the show day as it goes from 1:30-4:30 pm, and there was no way that I could make it to the venue that late. I arrived at school around 11:50 am for the 12:00 pm bus but it NEVER ARRIVED and we were told to get an Uber— it was a little frustrating and pretty chaotic especially as it was raining hard. Upon arrival, we were all very anxious to get the makeup done as the stations were limited but once that was done, I felt a lot more reassured. In fact, the makeup was so cute that it really boosted my confidence for walking the show! I changed into my outfit and hung around till around 4:20 pm when the rehearsal began. The rest of the day passed by fairly fast and it wrapped around 8 pm—by that time, I was so glad to take off my high heels and grab some nice food with my friends. The ultimate plot twist though—I actually left my laptop at the venue unwittingly and the realization only dawned on me the next morning. Fortunately, someone picked it up and now me and my laptop are reunited!

Can you describe the design that you modeled and the inspiration behind it? How did you embody the design?

Julian: My outfit was an extremely loose-fitting top with an extra-long left sleeve and loose-fitting green pants. The top was hand-dyed in vibrant colors. I was barefoot and had branches and butterflies in my hair. The design itself made me look ethereal and fairy-like. The theme/inspiration was flowers. I tried to really play into the ethereality by holding myself straight and tall as well as ignoring everything around me. My poses aimed to highlight the flow of the outfit by making sweeping motions with the long sleeve and the loose shirt.

Hesper: The outfit I wore was a slip dress made with soft, flowy fabric tie-dyed by my designer personally. It was super bright in color, featuring a combination of blue, yellow, and orange. Overall, I would say the design is all about flowiness, a hint of nature, and a sense of almost fairytale-like dreaminess. My makeup really accentuated the outfit with yellow petals glued on my face. IT WAS SO COOL! And daisies in my braided hair.

Does the design match your style? If yes, how so? If not, why not?

Julian: It does not. Well, the baggy pants are something I like to wear and sometimes I present a little androgynously, but I prefer more earthy, less bright colors typically. My outfits are usually a little rougher as well.

Hesper: IT DOES NOT. I usually go with business-casual-ish, monochromic-ish outfits. I am a blazer/shirt/suit pants gal and people do not often associate me with bright colors or boho dresses.

What did you think about the other designs and the fashion show overall? What were some highlights of the night and what could be improved, if anything at all?

Julian: I really liked the other outfits. I loved trying to guess the themes that designers worked with and their inspirations. A highlight was definitely the walk itself. Hearing everyone scream their support and clap was exhilarating. We walked too fast though at the end when presenting all the designs together. Also, the confusion with the shuttles could have been improved.

Hesper: I enjoyed seeing other designs!! It was very interesting to see how every designer has a highly differentiated style, but within their model cohort, there exists a sense of continuity so that you get to understand their theme/ideas better in different embodiments. In terms of improvements—hmm, it would be nice if the bus does not get lost on the way next time.

What is some advice you would give to someone applying to be a MODA fashion show model but has never modeled before?

Julian: It is totally okay to be nervous. But, do not let that prevent you from applying. Each designer has a vision and you will fit into someone’s if you just go for it with confidence. Also, everyone is super supportive throughout the entire process.

Hesper: Follow your heart and try it out! You are unique and beautiful and that is precisely what modeling is about!

Would you model for the MODA fashion show again, if you could?

Julian: Absolutely.

Hesper: DEFINITELY!

What is your style and how would you describe it?

Julian: West coast dark academia. Pretty eclectic to be honest.

Hesper: Business casual with a twist(?). I would say it is a mix of simple basic pieces (The Frankie shop, Vince, Theory, Joseph), with some accents from the more feminine designs (i.e. Réalisation par, Sézane).

Describe your style and/or vibe using a song.

Julian: Vad Hände Med Dem by The Brian Jonestown Massacre.

Hesper: Hmmmm that is a tough one…White Mustang by Lana Del Ray.

What is your favorite item of clothing and why?

Julian: There is this vintage 1950s Abercrombie flannel I thrifted 4 years ago. I can wear it in weather ranging from 70 to 20 and it works well with basically all my pants. I feel like it matches my aesthetic pretty well.

Hesper: A black embroidered silk blazer! It is such a solid piece that goes well with almost everything and the embroidery elevates it beyond a bland blazer.

What do you always have on?

Julian: I typically buy one pair of shoes every 8 months or so, that I wear basically everyday until they wear out. I wear other pairs every once in a while or if I have a particular outfit in mind; but, during my day-to-day it would be those shoes.

Hesper: Honestly—blazers. I have so many blazers.

What is/are your favorite place(s) to shop?

Julian: Pilsen vintage. It can be a bit pricey for second hand but I always find something I like.

Name one trend that you love and one trend that should die. You can name more than one for each if you wish.

Julian: I am a big fan of loafers. Honestly, I am sad I do not fit into my grandfather’s shoes cause he has quite the collection. I have been looking to buy some for myself. Stylish crocs should go. The reason crocs work in everyday fashion is that there are just people being comfortable and not caring what other people think. But that does not mean they should be elevated to high fashion.

Hesper: I love simple slip skirts with a slit on the side!! They are so so chic and really easy to style.

What is one trend you predict will become popular this year?

Julian: Casual loafers.

What is a trend you hope will come back or become popular this year?

Julian: Leather gloves. Like Italian driving gloves.

Favorite color combinations? Favorite clothing pattern? Favorite material/fabric?

Julian: I wear a lot of burgundies, dark blues, and forest greens. Some arrangement of those colors probably. Material would probably have to be corduroy or suede. Clothing pattern would be plaid.

Hesper: I love silk/wool/linen!

What is your favorite decade in fashion?

Julian: 1960s probably if I had to choose. To be honest, I like elements from many decades put together but no one decade in particular.

What is your favorite 2022 Met Gala look?

Julian: I did not pay too much attention but I thought Blake Lively’s dress was awesome. The blue/red tones were gorgeous.