Darling, wake up; it’s time to transform those eyes from dozy to glossy-lidded. We get it; 2023 has been a big year, full of highs and lows. And as we herald towards the finishing stretch, it’s our pleasure to throw a CPC-coded bash for you.
Celebration dressing is an art. Our stylist pal Laura Mazikana has hit the nail on the head with our last shoot of the year — a high-energy and glamorous ode to holiday dressing. Inspired by the prospect of shooting with the sparkling Cassaerea Jesus. The final looks are perfect for all occasions, whether that be a mosh pit of a New Year's Eve party or a summer soirée of four in a friend’s garden.
There’s an undeniable sartorial edge to the styling, with highlights from Gucci and Lee Matthews. But a summer night can't be complete without a little playfulness (obviously). Our accessories come in hot, sparkling, and floral from Dinosaur Designs and Roger Vivier. And lest we forget, a glorious eye look from Viseart.
Of course, there’s no way we can wrap up the year without a pearl of wisdom. "Experiences are more meaningful when shared with people you love and respect," says our new friend Cassaerea. Her favourite movie is The Warriors (1979), her idea of happiness is an all-nighter Youtube marathon with her friends, and by the end of this, you’ll wish you were ringing in 2024 with her in just that manner.
Savour the magic of new beginnings in the air right now, because before you know it, it’ll be gone in a blink. How lucky we are to spend a moment of it with you!
How did you get into modelling? Can you tell us the story of how you came to be signed to your agency?
I was lost after graduating from uni, so I applied for a modelling competition I saw on Instagram. I got short-listed and was asked to visit Vivien’s. Turns out I didn’t fit the competition criteria, so I wasn’t put through. However, Vivien’s liked me and I was signed. I’ve been with them ever since. It’s been great.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
There’s no right or wrong answer.
What is your idea of happiness?
Watching music videos on YouTube with my friends all night.
Where would you take someone visiting your hometown for the first time?
The beach.
What would happen if you had to give up social media for a week?
I’d give it up gladly because I’m cutting down my social media usage anyway. I’d try to start a new hobby. I’ve always wanted to sew.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?
Anything to avoid grabbing my phone first. Most mornings I drink lots of water, read a few pages from a book, journal etc before looking at my phone. It helps me focus during the day.
How can we make the most of our time on Earth?
Leave nothing left unsaid. Make peace with those you can. Try everything you want to try. Essentially, live like you’re going to die because you are.
Best Tiktok/reel you've seen recently?
People cuddling with cows in a paddock. That’s how I’m trying to be when modelling is done.
What books are you reading at the moment?
God’s Bits Of Wood by Sembène Ousmane and Gather Together in My Name by Dr. Maya Angelou. I bought them for myself as birthday presents.
Favourite song?
It changes every week. This week, it’s ‘Ants To You, Gods To Who?’ by André 3000.
Favourite movie?
The Warriors (1979).
Why do you think friendships are so important?
Experiences are more meaningful when shared with people you love and respect.
What values do you look for in friends?
Similar political values, empathy, kindness, generosity.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A Sāmoan plate. Sapa sui, taro with coconut cream and onions, corned beef, and luau.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Morning person. How do people stay up past 10 pm?
If you could say something to your 16-year-old self, what would it be?
Listen.
What are you most looking forward to next year in 2024?
To seeing the work I put in this year pay off.
Features Editor: Yawynne Yem Photographer: Britt Murphy Fashion: Laura Mazikana Makeup: Tina Matti Hair: Laura Mazikana Fashion Assistant: Charlotte Edwige
Cassaerea is represented by Vivien's
We acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the traditional owners of the land on which this shoot took place.
