Between the innovative twists on bandage dresses and the awesomely abstract eyeliner look, we don’t
blame you if you were too distracted by all the pretty at Proenza Schouler’s runway
show to catch the importance of Jelle Haen’s debut. It’s one that requires a
double-take — because not only did the Dutch newcomer book a coveted Proenza spot,
but he’s the only male model to ever walk in the label’s runway show.
With a striking bone structure
like this one (that jawline!), it’s not surprising that the 21-year-old has
already made the rounds during Paris shows. But, as he explained to Style.com,
he owes his stateside debut to a game-changing haircut. “I had a shoot for C☆NDY magazine and they cut my hair. And, from the day
that I cut my hair, it all started. I have this androgynous face with the short
hair, so it sort of works. And Ashley [Brokaw], who cast me, said, 'Perfect.
Perfect for Proenza.'”
Haen’s cameo is only the
latest in a season of gender bending on the runway. The recent menswear shows featured a crew of female
catwalkers, such as Hailey Baldwin and Jourdann Dunn (at Moschino), and we can
usually count on Karl Lagerfeld to enlist one of his “boys” to appear at Chanel. However, the occurrence is far less common for traditional
womenswear shows. Judging from his epic strut, Haen’s clearly got what
it takes. As he said himself, “I can walk in 6-inch heels. I’m totally ready,
honey.” Here’s hoping he sparks a trend. (Style.com)
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