Was this posted? Living doll lights up fashion label By Michelle Zhang | NEWSPAPER EDITION 2009-7-12 00:00 It has become an increasing and popular trend for local brands to use international supermodels in their advertising and promotional activities. Most recently, Canadian beauty Jessica Stam (pictured below) was invited to Shanghai by Asobio, a new brand targeting the young and trendy generation, to attend its store opening at Channel One, one of the city's newest shopping complexes. Arguably one of the most stunning models in the world, Stam is also the leading character in Asobio's spring/summer 2009 campaign. Growing up on a farm in Ontario, Canada, Stam was talent-spotted in a coffee shop and subsequently won the Los Angeles Model Look Search in 2002. The 23-year-old has appeared on numerous fashion magazine covers, including the UK and German editions of Vogue, and advertisements for Marc Jacobs, Giorgio Armani, Valentino and Prada. Stam has joined the group of models favorably considered to have a "doll face," alongside Gemma Ward, Lily Cole and Lisa Cant. Marc Jacobs has since created a bag called Stam, said to be inspired by, and named after, the blonde beauty. During her short stay in Shanghai, Stam enthusiastically talked about her fashion style, hobbies and how she manages to keep fit. Q: Is it your first time to China? What is your impression of the country? A: It's my second time in China, but first time in Shanghai. I was in Beijing last winter to attend a China Vogue event. I visited the Great Wall and some ancient gardens including the Summer Palace. I was fascinated by the Chinese culture. I haven't seen much of Shanghai except from my hotel room ? the Bund is stunningly beautiful. I think Chinese people are very advanced in their fashion. Q: You have a Chinese tattoo on your foot. What do the three characters mean? A: I had the tattoo done in Canada when I was 17 because I thought Chinese characters were very beautiful. I like their meanings, too. As far as I am concerned, they stand for "Luck, Honor and Spirit." I think they are my Chinese blessing! Q: What's your personal style? A: Comfortable, but it really depends on my mood. Q: Who is your fashion icon? A: Patti Smith. I like her kind of grunge, rock 'n' roll look, but she can also be very feminine. Q: What do you think of "fast fashion" brands such as H&M, Zara and Asobio? A: I think they are great. They allow people to have a big, upgraded wardrobe at affordable prices. I think it's also a great way to mix high and low fashion. Q: Is there a single fashion item you have many of but still keep buying? A: White T-shirts. I keep buying white T-shirts and all kinds of vintage T-shirts. I have also designed a black and white T-shirt for Asobio. Q: What are the must-have fashion items this season? A: Patent leather shoes, better with heels. Pale colors such as beige and grey are everywhere. Q: What do you do for leisure? A: I like to catch up with my friends, go to the museum, play tennis, go to the beach, cook or have barbeques. Just to relax. Q: How do you keep fit? A: I like to run a lot. I go to the gym and jog outside from time to time. Sometimes I also practice Pilates. Source: mobile.shanghaidaily.com
