Chad White: A Confession of A Male SuperModel

On a gloomy Saturday morning  in New York, I went to Dean Street Studios to interview male supermodel Chad White. After half an hour, he came in, greeted everyone, and apologised for the juice stain on his shirt. Sweet, charming, and funny, it was easy to see why he is one of the industry’s favourite male models. He has been listed as one of the most iconic male models of all time (along with the likes of Tyson Beckford and Bill Curry), and was described by Vogue.com as “the unofficial face of the early 2000s.”

Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, White started modelling at the age of 16, but didn’t pursue it seriously until later, after he injured his hand and gave up his dream of playing professional baseball. In 2005, he signed up with Major Model Management NY. A year later, Steven Klein shot him for a L’Uomo Vogue, landing White a cover and a 40-page editorial. His career skyrocketed to the top since then. “I didn’t know it was a big deal,” he said. “Now, I realise the magnitude and impact of the shoot. It was a big break for me.”

He has become the face of numerous campaigns of big designer brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, DSquared2, Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, and Diesel. He has also appeared in numerous editorials in the world’s most respectable glossies—the likes of GQ, Dazed & Confused, Arena Hommes, Details, and V Man.

Now 31, White isn’t slowing down, and has plans to move onto greater things. The modelling world may be dominated by women, but being one of the most recognisable faces in fashion, he has proven that there’s more to being a male model than just (to quote Derek Zoolander) “being really, really, ridiculously good-looking.”

 Did you always dream of becoming a model? What did you aspire to be when you were growing up?

CW: I never dreamt of being a model. I’ve always been into sports. I got into sports to stay out of trouble. My father was hard on me, and sports were my great escape. I played basketball, golf, soccer, softball, and football. I’ve always wanted to be a professional athlete.

 So how did you get into modelling?

CW: It was a funny coincidence. My friend wanted to be in Playboy. She and I went to a modelling agency in Portland, Oregon. I came with her for moral support. My friend didn’t get the part, but the casting agent told me that I should be a model. Before I came to New York, I joined the Navy Seals. My agent, Jason, convinced me to talk my way out of it. I spoke to my commanding officer and told him that I would like to pursue a career in modelling. He told me to chase my dreams, and that if I decided to come back, he’d welcome me again. In the end, I didn’t go back.

What have been some of your favourite or most memorable shoots and campaigns?

CW: Gosh! I’ve had so many great shoots throughout my career. I’ve worked with amazing stylists, photographers, and designers. Dolce & Gabbana, DSquared2, Ralph Lauren, and Giorgio Armani were some of my most memorable shoots. For Brian Atwood’s recent book, we were all naked wearing high-heeled pumps. It was a great project, but it was difficult standing in women’s shoes.

 What have been some of the challenges for you as a male model in the fashion industry?

CW: When I was starting out in my career, I wasn’t thinking of the challenges. I went with the flow and just focused on my work. Now, there is a huge demand for skinny male models. Designers like Prada and Gucci jumped into this army of boy-like models. I tried to do the skinny route. It didn’t work for me. I didn’t feel great. At the end of the day, it is the client’s decision if I suit the company’s vision or not.

What’s your personal style?

CW: I am a simple kind of guy. As long as I feel comfortable, I can be at ease. Look at what I am wearing now—a stained white shirt and a pair of grey jeans. For formal events, James Bond is my inspiration. The sleek tuxedo and suits inspire me to be polished and dapper. Now, if only I could have the accent to complete the look!

What piece of clothing can’t you live without?

CW: Aside from my underwear, I can’t live without my leather jacket. I bought this amazing Dolce & Gabbana from Selfridges in London. I felt cool. It completes the outfit. When I was a young boy, I would see my father dress up his look by wearing a leather jacket. My leather jacket is falling apart, but I still love it.

I also love bow ties. When I was five years old, I became a ring bearer at a wedding. My outfit was so crisp and clean, and I wore a bow tie. From then on, I’ve always loved it.