#SUPERMODEL… WARWICK DENMAN

Why do some men appear more effortlessly stylish than others, how do you quantify the stylishness of an individual? Model David Gandy once asked.  If you delve into the outfits that guys like Warwick Denman wear, you will find that their outfits are sometimes comical style-wise, but because of the people they are with their confidence and inherent coolness, their powerful characters make whatever they wear instantly stylish. Even if they dressed themselves in what was required for a specific occasion be it riding a motorcycle, not because it’s a trend, but because these items are the most appropriate for the job they have the power to make these items become "essentials" for aspirational men.

It’s not hard to see why Warwick Denman has been a success story for the past 3 years that he has been in the industry, exploding onto the modelling scene both locally and internationally. His recent stint abroad included fashion hotspots such as London and New York, racking up a Cologne Campaign in the first week of his travels and has the like of Nina Dobrev fangirling (yes that is a thing) over him. There is some other kind of star power at play with Warwick, something otherworldly that draws all eyes (and camera lenses) hopelessly towards him.

As we continue to get to know the men who will model the covetable clothes on the runway at Menswear fashion week, this time around we catch up with Warwick Denman.

From an early age Warwick has always been fascinated with travel and an appetite for adventure. Being fortunate enough to travel internationally he grew increasingly interested in modern arts and culture, and in particular, an appreciation for fashion.

What made you want to become a model?

I’ve always been fascinated by the Modelling Industry as there is so much stigma around it and its models. The fact that people think models are dumb or brainless is very entertaining to me. I just had to see what it is all about and who these "dumb" people were... The fact of the matter is that conversations I’ve had on set are some of the deepest and most innovative thinking I’ve ever had the privilege of being involved in. I got deeply involved because i wanted to go on a Journey, not only travel but a personal one as well. I believe the Journey is to still continue for a while... I feel I’ve grown more in the past 3 years than I have my whole life thanks to my model career. The people I’ve met will never be forgotten either.

How were you discovered?

 I was discovered by Roxy Halls one cold, Cape Town Winters morning while I was taking my car in for a service. She was taking hers in and we got chatting.

How do you say in shape?

I do a multitude of activities ranging from Surfing to Yoga to Trail Runs.

Do you have a skin care routine?

Yes I do. It’s not over the top but it includes a Face scrub (Neutrogena Face Scrub & Mask) twice a day and a few night creams. (Neutrogena Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream)

How do you prepare for the runway?

Physically i do plenty of Cardio and a healthy eating programme 2 weeks prior. Mentally i spend a lot of time alone. I find this important to rid oneself of any distractions.

Describe the atmosphere when you're at a shoot?

On the day of the shoot I always like to chat to the photographer and clients for a few minutes on a serious note. Thereafter it’s always best to keep the mood light-hearted but professional at the same time. The more relaxed the vibe is the better you project yourself. This definitely shows on camera.

 

Tell me about the background chaos at fashion week.

Fashion week is organised Chaos as i like to call it. Backstage is packed with artists, designers, photographers, Hair & Make up, event organisers and the models.. and a few people that nobody knows who they are.. so you can imagine the shear amount of humans buzzing around. Personally i love it. There’s never a dull moment. Lots of cameras going off all the time you never know whose taking the picture or of whom... :) It’s kind of like a night club where everyone’s sober but high on life. 

Best advice about your career that you've ever received?

Stay real!

 

How would you describe your personal style?

My style is pretty relaxed. I have been influenced by the streets of Cape Town growing up so I range from skater/surfer style on a normal day to smart casual on eventful days.

What is your favourite item in your closet?

 My Diesel Jeans all thanks to Rob Cilliers

What does fashion mean to you?

Fashion means everything to me. It’s your unique expression of self with no boundaries or rules. 

What is your most memorable modelling moment?

Definitely being on a 5 story billboard on Oxford Street in my first year of modelling

Since you are in a competitive industry, how do you cope with rejection?

Rejection is a part of life. You can’t win everything. The sooner you realise that life will make more sense.

What do your family & friends think of you being a model?

 My family are very supportive. Some friends have disappeared over time but my rationalisation is that they weren't true friends to begin with.

What is your stand-out characteristic?

Physically probably my dimples, personality wise I’d say my positive attitude towards work.

How do you unwind?

 I love to cook! So a well prepared meal paired with a quality wine.

Warwick (Warwick D as people in the industry like to call him studied a 4 year degree in Winemaking (not your run of the mill subject to study).  He has always had a passion for wine as Warwick believes this is where science meets art and culminates in producing an organic product that makes people happy.

If you weren't a model, what would you do?

 I studied to be a Winemaker, so probably out in Stellenbosch working on a farm.

He has always had a passion for wine as Warwick believes this is where science meets art and culminates in producing an organic product that makes people happy.

When it comes to me career, nudity.... will come later on in my career ;)

What do you hope the future brings?

 Lots of travelling, meeting great people and most importantly making memories through experiences.

Images supplied by Warwick Denman

Follow Warwick on Instagram and Twitter: @warwickdenman

Facebook Page: Warwick Denman

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