Q+A: Charmaine Harn
Harper's Bazaar Singapore ranks her as one of Asia's most fashionable women. Actress Maggie Q places her "right at the top" of the modelling circuit. And this year, Charmaine Harn can add her starring performances on the Audi Fashion Fest '09 runway into her ever-growing list of plaudits and milestones.
This 31-year-old supermodel can thank her lucky stars when she was personally chosen as Singapore's sole representative in the "Ford Supermodel of the World" competition in 1996. Since then she has continued to sizzle for high fashion brands on the catwalks and editorial spreads in Paris, Milan, Taiwan, Shanghai, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Jakarta to name a few.
Currently based in Singapore, this jetsetter is also the host of Singapore's reality model search, SUPERMODELME.tv. Charmaine lets us in on why she almost left the modeling industry, who she got star struck by and whether she is winding down on her modeling career.
You're 1.78m tall with long and beautiful hazel brown hair, and legs that seem to stretch for a mile. Are you sick of the attention when you walk down the street?
I am very blessed and comfortable with what God gave me although I must admit that sometimes, getting wolf whistles and sleazy comments at a bar or walking down the street can get on my nerves.
How would you describe your style? Are supermodels always glamourous as we like to believe?
My style is all about comfort. Even when I am glammed up for occasions and events, I make sure what I am wearing is comfy because I believe that when you wear something you feel good in, it naturally adds confidence and style to any outfit.
When you got the opportunity to work with Ford, what were the thoughts running through your head?
I was just SO excited to go to Paris. Furthermore in the 90's, Ford was a very reputable name so I felt confident about doing well.
You've been on the modeling industry for more than 10 years. Looking back, did you think you would've made it this far?
To be honest, I never thought that far. I was just living in the moment and taking one day at a time.
Do you remember a particular moment in your career where you've had enough and felt like giving up?
Yes, there were times when I just wanted to call it quits for reasons like a client being mean and unreasonable, or ignorant people making silly comments, but I always try to remind myself that to be successful, one has to rise above all these pitfalls.
And was there a particular moment in your career that you felt that "I've finally made it!"?
I never really thought about it actually. But I must say that the local industry does tend to drop the term "over-exposed" too easily when a model or artist starts to get recognised. It's ALMOST as if they don't want to support their local talent if he/she gets too much recognition, which doesn't really make any sense.
What's the biggest difference between local models and the ones you encounter in Milan and Paris? Is there a difference in mentality and attitude or is it the same?
It's pretty much the same. We're all human after all.
You were simply sizzling on the runway at Audi Fashion Festival '09. Any pre-show jitters especially since you were the "official" face of the event?
I always get a rush before runway shows. It's just the adrenaline pumping, and nerves if you've got extra high heels or a stage with stairs or ramps.
What were some of the fond memories from the show?
Meeting Ashley Isham, finally getting to do a Vivienne Westwood fashion show and receiving encouraging and supportive words from friends and clients in the industry who came to watch the shows.
As a model, you must have cultivated certain disciplines like watching your diet and a crazy fitness regime. Share with us your daily diet/exercise routine.
Six years ago, I gave up eating red meat for health and personal reasons. Now, I do not eat anything I cannot imagine slaughtering, which means I am mainly vegetarian apart from seafood. I also do yoga, skateboarding, certain water sports and brisk walking.
SUPERMODELME.tv is not your first hosting gig. But do you feel a pressure to deliver and also be a role model to the contestants?
No, I just believe I will suceed if I do my best with the best intentions.
Is hosting a sign that you're taking things slower now and cutting down on the modeling? Are you heading in a different direction, career-wise?
I have always been keen on presenting and filming. I think it fits my personality better.
You Facebook, Twitter, and even blog. Do you ever succumb to the temptation of Googling yourself as well?
I have only Googled myself once, a few years back. But now that you've mentioned it, I might just Google myself again.
Quick questions with Charmaine:
My favourite fashion designer is... Sven from alldressedup.
My favourite runway show I've walked for is... Karl Lagerfeld's couture Chanel show in Hong Kong in 2006.
My favourite accessories are... joy bracelets from Bali.
My favourite photographer is... I dont have ONE but I love Chuan Do and Jing Na's work.
I love to work with... anyone who is dedicated, considerate and talented.
I got star struck when I met... Karl Lagerfeld.
The one thing I can't leave the house without are... my keys. And lip balm.
The one thing I will not be caught dead wearing are... granny panties.
I am addicted to... my mobile phone.
I am guilty of... not doing enough charity work.
My only regret is that I didn't... save more money.
My best friend is... Valerie Cventonavic.
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[Photo Credits: Her World, FHM, Starz People, New Man, Singapore Fashion Festival '07 and Audi Fashion Festival '09]
