Don Lee is a dread-locked wonder on the modelling landscape. Rising to fame after his appearance in Halsey’s Romeo + Juliet inspired video for her single ‘Now Or Never’, which was released earlier this year, the 19-year-old American model has caught the eye of the fashion world. His off-duty looks and style captivate street style photographers during fashion weeks and fuels features in Vogue, W Magazine, and many other outlets.
Lee’s SS’18 season indicates that the 19-year-old New Yorker is set to stomp many more major runways, Spring/ Summer 2018 saw him walk for Comme des Garçons, Dolce and Gabbana, DSquared2, Neil Barrett, Philipp Plein, Off White and many others. You need only look at his Instagram to see how much of a fashion aficionado he is, with regular style shots of him donning everything from Gucci and Saint Laurent accentuated by his trademark dreadlocks. Don is currently one of the faces in the POLO Ralph Lauren Autumn / Winter 2017 campaign.
Q&A
What’s your heritage, Don?
DL: I am Panamanian and Antiguan.
How did you get discovered?
Last July I went to an open call at Red Model Management after hearing about them on Instagram. On my way out, one of the agents saw me on the street and told me to come back the following week.
What’s the best piece of advice you have gotten?
To fully apply yourself to what you are passionate about.
If you can chill with anyone, dead or alive, who would that be and why?
I would have to say Michael Jackson so I could find out where he got those glitter pants.
What are you uncomfortable with?
I’m uncomfortable when I am not working; I always want to be busy.
Have you ever felt discriminated against?
I am lucky to say that I haven’t been discriminated against. Sometimes I feel that my dreads have given me the wrong vibe.
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What do you want to see change in the fashion industry?
I would like for there to be equal opportunity and respect for all models. I would love for people to see how hard models actually work.”[/perfectpullquote]
What would you like to change in the world, and why?
I would like to resolve tension between some countries, nothing good comes out of the constant conflict.
What’s your most significant accomplishment?
Booking my first campaign for Polo Ralph Lauren. What inspires you most?
Putting myself out there and creating a legacy for myself.
Do you believe in love?
Yes, just not at first sight.
What’s your greatest wish for yourself?
My greatest wish is to be successful in whatever path I pursue.
What would you do if you would not be modelling?
If I weren’t modelling, I would love to be designing jewellery or a clothing line.
What do you want people to know about you?
I want people to know that I am not only a model but also a visionary.
Follow me on Instagram @realdonlee and I’ll keep you posted on future projects.
