The new face of Ralph Lauren

Walk into any Macy’s mens Polo section right now and you’ll probably be greeted by a huge photo of up and coming male supermodel, Pierre Eugene Woods, the new face of Ralph Lauren. In this
Q & A Pierre answers your questions about becoming a successful male model.

What it is like to be a model?

Traveling, networking, shooting and more networking! I’ve also learned that being a model is an excellent way to express myself to others. With every picture taken you must open yourself to others bit by bit. When someone looks at my work they can understand what I was going through at the time the shot was taken. Looking back, I’ve learned a great deal about myself through modeling.

I think the best part of modeling is meeting amazing people! I’ve found life-long friends from being a model like photographer Tarrice Love, stylist Robert Verdi, designer Loris Diran, the team from Ralph Lauren and many others. Overall, I think of modeling as a profession just like any other but with a couple of extra perks.

What does it take to be a model?

Being a model only entails having the guts to stand in front of a camera. Being a successful working model takes having tough skin, humility, confidence and consistency. I’ve been told don’t let failure get to your heart and don’t let success get to your head.

How did it feel to selected to appear in the Ralph Lauren campaigns?

Appearing in the Ralph Lauren ads has been the best part of my career. Not only because of the prestige of the brand but also because of the team Ralph Lauren uses. From the first time I shot with them until now, they have made me feel like family. I’m always honored to work with them.

How did you land the Polo job?

Polo is a great brand so I was honored to be called in for the initial go-see. But here is the process in short. Go-See, casting, call back casting, test shoot and then came the jobs.

How long has it taken you to get where you’re at as a model?

I started modeling in 2004 part-time with Ford Chicago. (I wouldn’t suggest for anyone to jump in head first unless you tons of money saved or big money jobs lined up.) I worked my way up to where I am now. I’m very thankful for my achievements so far and I feel I still have moves to make to get to where I want to be.

What’s next?

Getting a fragrance ad or two under my belt, more campaigns and covers and acting.

In closing…

I met with an agency from Milan, a month before their show castings, while I was working as a Credit Manager at a Fortune 500 company. They expressed interest in representing me in Milan. So I agreed to have them as my agency. I told them I was ready to travel there for the shows. Their response was you won’t book anything and we might not even be able to get you any castings. Long story short, Fashion Milan was shocked and very pleased when I did open the shows after all and more castings followed. I opened the Salvatore Ferragamo show, walked the D&G show and worked for Zegna along with a couple of other clients.

1. Don’t give up! When someone tells you it can’t be done, find ways it can.

2. Modeling includes a wide range of looks. You’ll never know if your look fits unless you’re in the mix.

3. Finding a model agency is like finding a partner, there has to be a connection, some commitment and compassion toward one another for the partnership to truly work effectively. (Krave magazine)