Avellon Williams
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO- From the Caribbean to the international Fashion Capitals, Trinidad and Tobago was represented by model Jean-Luc Joseph at Milan and Paris fashion week, displaying the SS23 collections for Bottega Veneta and Balmain.
As the only Caribbean man to walk the runways at Bottega Veneta for two consecutive seasons in its history, Joseph is already a favorite at the brand.
As another milestone in his career, Joseph was also the first Male Model from Trinidad and Tobago to walk the runway for another international luxury label – BALMAIN, on Thursday,September 28th in Paris.
Originally from Sangre Grande, Trinidad, Jean-Luc Joseph never considered himself a model but rather a photographer. He was recommended by a friend to audition for 28Models’ model search in Trinidad 2019. His initial hesitation prevented him from participating in the search.
Joseph, however, was spotted and scouted online by 28Models founder/director, Showin Bishop, and the rest is history. “I never thought that I had the, it factors those other models had, so I was quite surprised when Showin messaged me on Instagram to consider representation.” Joseph said, “Now here I am walking for Major brands in Europe, and I am so thankful that he believed in my potential.”
Showin Bishop, Director of 28Models, sees this as an opportunity with greater potential. The company is establishing an office in Trinidad, which will be used to research and develop more models for the international market. Bishop explained that it will also serve as the Caribbean market’s regional office.
As Bishop continued, he said, “I feel great about this, as this is how I hope to help models get the exposure they need. I cannot wait for the other big things that are in the pipeline for Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, and this is just the beginning of what I plan on doing for Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean.”
It is still surreal for Jean-Luc Joseph to walk for such major luxury brands – “I’m still pinching myself!” he says. “Being able to be a part of history and walking for these mega fashion houses, is still crazy to me; I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities. I’m also grateful to have worked with such amazing teams: everyone is welcoming.”
