When we heard Sophie Song had made the flight from Tāmaki Makaurau to Sydney just in time to grace the joyful runway that is Gary Bigeni, we got straight on the email to ask the Aotearoa model (who's also studying urban planning, nbd) if she would tell us about the show and let us raid her camera roll. After sending us the handful of snaps she took backstage, we got the bonus of having her spill on what's most important backstage — ice buckets, Tim Tams and a handheld fan.
Name: Sophie Song
Nickname: Soph/jimin
Starsign: Aquarius
Mood going into fashion week:
Give us your elevator pitch (who are you and what do you do):
I’m Sophie, a model representing 62 management in New Zealand and FiveTwenty in Sydney. Besides modelling, I’m currently studying a degree in urban planning! I enjoy collecting vintage designer, singing, and making Korean food.
Where do you live and where do you call home?
I’m born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand 🐑.
Favourite show you took part in and why:
I had the incredible opportunity to walk for Gary Bigeni, and it was such a fun and memorable experience. The vibe at the show was amazing, filled with positive energy, and Gary himself was not only incredibly sweet but also exceptionally talented. Wearing his designs felt like wearing art, each piece full of vibrant colour and creativity.
Best person you met backstage?
The hair team was great, especially Morgan Weiss, who styled my hair. Also, Shelton for his support towards me along the show.
What do you do to fill time while waiting around backstage?
Waiting backstage was actually a lot of fun! Gary set up ice buckets for our faces and feet, which was super refreshing. I also took the time to connect with the models and the backstage crew!!
Fashion week essentials in your bag:
My essentials for fashion week: Water, Tim Tams, lip balm, Phone charger, and a handheld fan!
A tiktok/meme/mood to sum up how you feel at the end of the week:
Photos: Sophie Song
Features Editor: Chloe Hill
We acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the traditional owners of the land on which Australian Fashion Week took place.
