If there’s one thing we love more than exploring new cities, it’s getting to know the cute humans that call them home. The cherry on top of the cake? Adding a parade of sweet treats—matcha ice cream, rose cakes, chocolates, and the new Gucci Zumi bag—into the mix. We recently indulged in a cocktail of the above to celebrate the launch of the Gucci Zumi. With our collective sweet tooth at the helm, we travelled to Tokyo, Milan and all the way back to Sydney to sample the finest treats on offer with some of the finest people we could find.
ICYMI, the Gucci Zumi bag was named after experimental musician, actress and all-round #fearless angel Zumi Rosow, who debuted her namesake bag on Gucci’s Spring 2019 runway this year. While its muse is a true individual with an eclectic sense of style—not dissimilar to the angels we profiled (some might say they’re a matcha made in heaven)—the bag itself is refined and ladylike, with a revived logo that Alessandro Michele found while thumbing through the archives.
Take a sweet break from work/school and get to know our new friends and the cities they inhabit a little better below. Before ogling the serious arm candy (and actual candy) that awaits you in the gallery above, that is. Spoiler alert: it’s very likely you’ll be coming back for seconds.
Name: Wen Fu
Nickname: FuFu/HuaHua
Star sign: Libra
Dessert: Matcha ice cream from Baskin Robbins in Shibuya, Tokyo.
Can you give us the Wen Fu elevator pitch?
I’m from China and moved to Tokyo about six months ago. Before that, I was studying a BA of Fashion Design Technology: Womenswear at London College of Fashion. The reason I moved to Tokyo was that I love the fashion environment, the people, the culture and Japanese brands. I am trying to figure out what it is that I’m going to do [with my life], while exploring the things I like.
If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
I would be any dessert with matcha! Matcha cookies, ice cream, bread, cake… Everything! The feeling of eating matcha is akin to flying through a clear blue sky, like you see in Japanese cartoons. That’s how I feel when I eat Matcha. Every single time.
What do you think life’s greatest pleasures are, and why?
They’re simple. Doing even just one thing that I really like, with the support of my family and friends. Always exploring the world. Being healthy and happy. That’s all I want.
You have 24 hours by yourself in Tokyo — what do you do?
Do you mean there’s only one person in Tokyo, which is me? If yes, I think I will just lay down in the middle of street, naked, and just chill and enjoy the sunshine!
Favourite thing about living in Tokyo? And, most challenging?
Walking through every little street in the city with my favourite music. The most challenging is the Japanese language. Sometimes I feel like you’re such an inconvenience if you don’t speak really good Japanese, but I have to face the problem, and I’m trying hard!
Best places to: eat, drink, shop and people watch?
!Harajuku!
What do you miss most about home?
Foooood! [Laughs].
How do you spend your time outside of modelling?
I play with garment patterns, visit museums and libraries for inspiration, and go out with friends for drinks.
When are you happiest?
I have no idea, almost always?
What were you into in high school? Did you always envision yourself working in the creative industry?
I was really into skateboarding and fashion when I was in high school. I tried to style myself in different ways and followed a range of fashion styles. The goal for me was always to work in the creative industry.
Can you tell us how you got into modelling? What’s been your favourite projects to work on so far?
My first time modelling was for a project by another LCF fashion student, and I’m still doing freelance modelling today. My favourite project so far was with my best friend Lexi, a photographer based in Berlin. The project is called ‘The Soft Water’, which represents life in London in the summer.
Define your personal look: The gap between subculture and high fashion.
What makes you most excited about being a young person living in 2019?
Everything is become convenient! I can enrich my life easily by exploring, travelling, reading, and the internet…
Coolest thing you’ve learned recently?
Japanese language.
What’s your motto?
Don’t be afraid. Life before death!
Name: Zarik Khan
Nickname: In primary school I used to get called Z.I. but in the beginning of high school Loki was my nickname for a bit.
Star sign: Pisces
Dessert: Chocolate dipped berries from the David Jones Food Court in Sydney.
Can you give us the Zarik elevator pitch?
I am a first-year uni student and I have been working at McDonalds for the past two years.
If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
I would be a m&m McFlurry. Because a simple dessert of chocolate and ice cream is bedazzled by colour, much like myself!
What do you think life’s greatest pleasures are, and why?
Definitely spending time with friends and family, but also just the overall scenery of nature and life itself. If you take some time out of your day to watch the sunset or sunrise you can see how beautiful the world really is.
You have 24 hours by yourself in Sydney — what do you do?
Have a Marvel movie marathon at IMAX cinemas! Then I would grab every single Lego set in the city and build them across the harbour bridge. Finally I would go and drive a Tesla, because honestly who wouldn't want to drive a Tesla?
Best places to: eat, drink, shop and people watch?
Grill'D has the best burgers hands down. I will forever thank my girlfriend for introducing me to that place. Any place with milkshakes tick my box for best drinks. Shopping at Stocklands at Wetherill Park is always good fun, especially since it has a cinema there too. The city is always a great place for people watching, there are people of all types of personalities there.
Favourite thing about living in Sydney? And, most challenging?
Favourite thing is definitely the diversity and overall culture of Sydney. It is a hotspot for tourists and there are usually people from all over the world visiting Sydney. The most challenging is the weather—you'll pack a jumper in the morning for the cold weather but then be sweating throughout the other half of the day. You never know what to wear!
How do you spend your time outside of modelling?
Mainly watching movies, playing A LOT of video games, going out whenever I can and studying at university.
What makes you most excited about being a young person living in 2019?
The new opportunities that await me. 2019 is a massive year for me with modelling and university, so I'm really excited to see where this will lead me with newer opportunities.
Coolest thing you’ve learned recently?
The actor Mark Ruffalo had to film five different endings for Avengers Endgame because he is prone to spoiling movies.
What’s your motto?
Hakuna Matata!
What do you have in store for the rest of 2019?
I'm ready to get outside my comfort zone and try new things in life, pick up different hobbies, join different clubs and hopefully travel a bit!
Name: Duan Meiyue
Nickname: Mei/ Meibae/ DMeiyue/ YueYue (my grandparents call me that).
Star sign: Taurus sun, Libra rising, Aries moon
Dessert: A bunch of desserts at Lauderee in Aoyama, Tokyo.
Can you give us the Mei elevator pitch?
I am Meiyue, a model, influencer and artist with lots of ambition. I work with other creatives to make pretty and interesting pictures!
If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
I would be a Mochi, because I am sweet, soft and Asian.
What do you think life’s greatest pleasures are, and why?
Travelling to a new country! The moment the plane takes off until the third day in the new country, I feel super blessed. My biggest dream, other than becoming a model, was to be able to travel to my favourite countries.
You have 24 hours by yourself in Tokyo — what do you do?
My 24 hours would start at 11am because that is usually when I finally get out of bed, [laughs]. I would do my morning routine and then grab a sweet potato, that I pre-bought at Donki Quote, from the fridge. Then, I would go visit Akihabara because that is the only place I haven't been to. I would then go to karaoke for three hours, before finishing off the day with ramen.
Favourite thing about living in Tokyo? And, most challenging?
Favourite thing is that there are convenience stores everywhere. I stay next to a Family Mart and every time I need something, I can just run over and get it! The most challenging thing is not being able to speak Japanese, because not a lot of people here can speak English.
Best places to: eat, drink, shop and people watch?
I am almost always around Omotesando because they have my favourite salad places! It’s also walking distance from Harajuku and Shibuya so there is a lot more shopping options. The people who walk around Omotesando dress so well, and it is not as crowded as Shibuya or Harajuku, so it’s the perfect hang out spot for me.
How do you spend your time outside of modelling?
I walk around the city I am in with a friend, and film any new spots I visit for a vlog! I love vlogging because I want to record this significant part of my life, where I am literally living in my 15-year-old dream.
When are you happiest?
When I meet with old friends. Or, when I see someone I have met in another country. I feel super happy!
What were you into in high school? Did you always envision yourself working in the creative industry?
I was into art and literature! I would doodle a lot in classes I didn’t care for (math and economics, yuck) and I would be the most engaged during literature! I was also in the photography club so I am quite interested in photography. Yes, I have actually always dreamed of being part of the creative industry. It was hard because Singapore’s education is quite rigid in the sense that math and sciences are a lot more important than creative work. I actually wanted to become a designer when I was like 4-years-old, [laughs].
Can you tell us how you got into modelling? What’s been your favourite projects to work on so far?
I was in Junior College which prepares you for University. It was the worst two years of my life. [Laughs]. But that really pushed me to think, Is this really the life I want?. There was also this senior in my college who was a model. She was so cool, especially because fashion models are rare in Singapore. I got really inspired, so I started watching runway shows and saw how ethereal and beautiful these models were. I would watch models’ GRWM videos, and then everything just clicked. I have the height and look to be a model, I thought. Also, I considered the perks of modelling: travelling to the coolest cities, wearing the most beautiful clothes and getting paid to do it.
Define your personal look: “Effortless” granny chic!
What makes you most excited about being a young person living in 2019?
The sense of humour my generation has. Meme accounts light up my life. Also, the creatives now are insane. Visual artists get so crazy with their work and I am so excited to be a part of that. Oh, and Airpods.
Coolest thing you’ve learned recently?
I learned how to crochet and make earrings.
What’s your motto?
Take care of yourself, stay inspired and live for fulfilment.
What do you have in store for the rest of 2019?
More travelling, and I hope to work with more creatives! I will be vlogging my travels and shooting a lot of film.
Name: Beti Chuol
Nickname: Call me B
Star sign: Cancer
Dessert: Lotus and mung bean pastry cakes from Emperor's Garden Cakes & Bakery in China Town, Sydney.
Can you give us the Beti elevator pitch?
I might seem a little sassy on the outside, but I mostly see myself as a humble, God-fearing girl, making the most out of the few opportunities that I am blessed with each day. I might be a little extra at times but it’s all for a good reason.
If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
To be competently honest, I would be a sweet and sour type of dessert like a lemon cheesecake: sweet but has that sour tang to it. Yep, that’s me.
What do you think life’s greatest pleasures are, and why?
I believe that life’s greatest pleasures are spending time with family. My favourite times are when I am arguing with my younger sisters, to the point where we almost kill each other over a towel or something stupid like that and switching it up to just making jokes with each other and laughing ourselves to tears.
You have 24 hours by yourself in Sydney — what do you do?
I would spend the first 4 hours at a winery, then go to the aquarium or somewhere quiet and peaceful like that for a good 3 hours, maybe go skydiving, because why the hell not? I guess that would take about 3 hours. Then my cool down period would be spent shopping for the next 14 hours.
Favourite thing about living in Sydney? And, most challenging?
My favourite thing about Sydney is that there is so many different types of people here and anything you want to eat is probably around the corner all ready to go for you. There’s also a lot that is possible here and just so many other avenues for creative industries. The most challenging thing would have to be the distance between where I live and getting to the heart of Sydney. I am pretty sure I am not the only one that faces that challenge, but it’s really tough out here. Plus I miss my family—that’s a challenge.
Best places to: eat, drink, shop and people watch?
Best place to eat and drink hands down has to be The Milk Bar. If you don’t check it out while I’m Sydney then you’ve got a problem. The best burgers and milkshakes ever.
How do you spend your time outside of modelling?
I spend my time studying or taking part in community events, which I find incredibly enjoyable, because I get to be with my friends and dress however I like.
When are you happiest?
I think I am happiest when I’ve just had a nice meal and I can feel that food coma slowly preparing me for a crazy nap.
What were you into in high school? Did you always envision yourself working in the creative industry?
My friends always thought I’d be great at modelling but I always insisted otherwise. My high school best friend Nasma once signed me up to go audition for Australia’s Next Top Model but I refused. Looking back at that support makes me realise how much potential I had and still have.
Can you tell us how you got into modelling?
I got into modelling first by being signed to an agency in Brisbane, but as the story goes I was not being booked for many jobs. I was unbothered, because modelling wasn’t my main focus at the time. I flew to Melbourne for a basketball tournament and I noticed that some of the girls there were doing great so I started sending my shots to agencies that could possibly scout me, and I believe I hit the jackpot with Stephen from FRM Management in Melbourne, he is so very supportive, as is Thomas from Chic in Brisbane, and Ailish and the team in Sydney. I am overwhelmed by the support and it honestly keeps my head up.
What’s been your favourite projects to work on so far?
My favourite shoot was with Charlie Dennington. He set up a different backdrop for the head shots we were doing, the make up artist was doing some really cool eye liner and shadows that just popped with the backdrop. I had short hair at the time but the hairdressers was pulling off crazy styles on one of the other model’s hair. It was a really creative, extraordinary shoot.
Define your personal look:
My personal look mostly involves jeans and a body suit with high heels. That’s basically it, but I make it look amazing. When it’s cold I love to wear jumpers with boots but still keep it simple with jeans.
Coolest thing you’ve learned recently?
I recently learned that you can have your debit card as a ring around your finger that you can just tap to purchase things. It’s awesome.
What’s your motto?
It is what it is.
What do you have in store for the rest of 2019?
I have some personal goals that I would really love to accomplish and that includes finding out what I am really passionate about. Yes I know, 22 and still confused, but hey it is what it is.
Name: Laura Emīlija Turka
Nickname: Simply Laura :)
Star sign: Scorpio
Dessert: Chocolate dipped berries from the David Jones Food Court in Sydney.
Can you give us the Laura elevator pitch?
I'm Laura, a girl from Latvia trying to travel around the world, model a bit and enjoy life.
If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
Mint-chocolate ice cream. Cool and fresh, but a little bit sweet at the same time.
What do you think life’s greatest pleasures are, and why?
Warm evening walks, delicious breakfast, music and a breeze of fresh air.
Those are the things I really enjoy and I consider my day lucky if I experience one of them.
You have 24 hours by yourself in Sydney — what do you do?
I would start my morning in a little, cozy cafe somewhere in Darlinghurst, drinking coffee and eating a hearty breakfast. Then I would go to Newtown to wander around and go vintage shopping. After that I would go and eat lunch at Darling Harbour and later go on a boat tour. After that I would go to Bondi and walk the coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte whilst watching the sunset. For dinner, I would try to find a restaurant that’s nearby the seaside and have dinner with a view. That would be a very nice day in Sydney.
Favourite thing about living in Sydney? And, most challenging?
I really like the weather and the city. I like that Sydney has beautiful beaches and that it’s also very urban. And, I have met the friendliest people here.
I sometimes find public transportation a bit chaotic and very time-consuming even if the destination is not that far away.
Best places to: eat, drink, shop and people watch?
I think Newtown. It literally has everything. It’s very interesting to walk around there and you can find something new every time.
What do you miss the most about Latvia?
I miss walks in the forests and sunsets. I really think we have the best sunsets, I just can’t explain why... there is something magical about them.
How do you spend your time outside of modelling?
I’m graduating soon, so school and preparation for my exams keeps me very busy at the moment. I also try to play guitar as much as I can.
And when I’m staying in different cities, I try to explore the city as much as I can. I hate sitting at home!
When are you happiest?
During summer. Just one warm and sunny day gives me dopamine for weeks.
What do you miss most about home?
Friends and family. Also I miss knowing all the cool spots in the city and visiting them with my friends.
What were you into in high school? Did you always envision yourself working in the creative industry?
I was interested in politics and history. I have never considered myself creative. If I weren’t a model, I don’t think I would be working in the fashion or creative industry
Can you tell us how you got into modelling? What’s been your favourite projects to work on so far?
I was discovered at school when I was very little-13 years old. My favourite project so far has been an editorial for Korean magazine, Avenuel, where I had to do some fun stuff. Sit on an ice block, pop champagne bottles and shoot in a bathtub filled with water whilst wearing a fancy dress.
Define your personal look:
To be honest, I’m struggling at the moment. I don’t really know what suits me and what doesn’t. I try to dress chic and feminine but not too girly at the same time. Comfort is very important to me and I will never wear something if I’m not feeling comfortable in it.
What makes you most excited about being a young person living in 2019?
Definitely freedom, almost everything is possible and possibilities are endless.
Coolest thing you’ve learned recently?
Playing guitar.
What’s your motto?
Through the thorns to the stars.
What do you have in store for the rest of 2019?
I will graduate and take a gap year. This year will be about travelling and understanding myself better. I don’t want to plan anything, I want to be spontaneous and wait for surprises :).
Name: Hyemi Lee
Nickname: Hym Leigh
Star sign: Aries
Dessert: Rose cake and chocolates at Pasticceria Sant Ambroeus, Milan.
Can you give us the Hym Leigh elevator pitch?
I am South Korean, but was born and raised in Japan. When I was 16, I moved to Auckland, New Zealand with my family to study English and Art. My passion for the arts segued into fashion when I met my art tutor who used to work as a designer in Italy. I made the decision to move alone to Milan to study Fashion Design at Istituto Europeo di Design. After an internship experience working at Retrosuperfuture, I have started up womens wear and eyewear brand HYMSKI.
If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
Creme brûlée, because I’m creamy on the inside and burnt on the outside. I.e. I look a bit antisocial from the outside, but am actually just shy inside.
What do you think life’s greatest pleasures are, and why?
Eating good food with good friends.
You have 24 hours by yourself in Milan — what do you do?
I wake up late and have iced latte macchiato with chocolate brioche at a bar, get on tram to Duomo and walk around a bit, then maybe go to some exhibitions. Then, dinner with friends and a night out clubbing.
Best places to: eat, drink, shop and people watch?
Eat: a Japanese restaurant called Fukurou (it means Owls). Best Japanese restaurant in Milan!
People watch: Paolo Sapri in Chinatown is fun to people watch!
How do you spend your time outside of modelling?
I work on my own brand, go to productions to check on sampling for the next season, organise shoots and events, etc.
What were you into in high school? Did you always envision yourself working in the creative industry?
When I was little, I used to go Atelier to do oil paintings, so I painted a lot in high school. In the 7th grade, I took fashion design as one of my subjects, then my passion for fashion gradually started I guess!
What makes you most excited about being a young person living in 2019?
Travelling! I want to travel as much as I can this year.
What’s your motto?
Eat a lot, sleep a lot.
What do you have in store for the rest of 2019?
I want to read all the Japanese novels I bought from my last trip in Tokyo, (I couldn’t buy the original copies from Italy) and go to the cinema to watch the Avengers movie marathon, [laughs].
Words: Maddy Woon Photos & Fashion: Chloe Hill
