Beauty is often recognized at different stages of life. For some, it’s felt during the exhilarating moments of first love. For others, it is discovered when they wear an outfit that truly represents themselves.
For Thylane Blondeau, it all began with her innocent footsteps roaming the streets of Paris, hand in hand with her mother. It was a chance encounter that would change her life forever, an encounter with none other than Jean Paul Gaultier, the iconic designer who was left in awe by the three-year-old girl he had just met. Captivated by her beauty, he insisted she be part of his next fashion show. Call it luck, divine timing, or perhaps a touch of fate, but some people, like Thylane, discover their true selves at an extraordinarily early age.
By six, she was dubbed the ‘Most Beautiful Girl in the World’ and at age ten sparked international debate over her infamous French Vogue story that featured her in adult clothing and makeup. The controversy surrounding Thylane, reminiscent of Brooke Shield’s unconventional rise to stardom from a child model to international celebrity, could have ended her career.
However, under the strategic guidance of IMG Models, her career underwent a significant transformation. This shift not only alleviated concerns about the exploitation of young models but also positioned Thylane as a sought after figure in the fashion industry. As a result, she transitioned from a controversial child model to a mega-earner, securing high-profile endorsements for Dolce & Gabbana, L’Oréal, and Miu Miu, all while maintaining her integrity and authenticity in the public eye.
Fast forward to today: Thylane has established a timeless career, her striking blue eyes and genuine spirit evident in her success. The fashion industry, intricate and challenging, isn’t easily navigated, even for someone who has had the support of veterans such as Carine Roitfeld. Thylane’s guiding principle, imparted by her mother, has been: “Be strong. Be yourself.” A mantra she practices with every career decision. Deep into the exploration of who Thylane is in front of the camera, we encounter a girl of extraordinary strength. With a flick of her lower lip, the inked word ‘Player’ is revealed, serving as a silent testament to her identity. Thylane is indeed a serious player in the fashion industry where learning, growth, and relentless dedication define her journey.
At the age of twenty-two, she has undergone a profound transformation, beginning from within and radiating outward. This transition is beautifully mirrored by her recent decision to embrace a shorter, shoulder-length hairstyle, symbolizing a new phase of her identity. With over seven million Instagram followers, it is clear that the world is waiting to see what she does next.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I wouldn’t be able to name just one but some of my favorites:
Believe in yourself, forgive, and make people happy. Stay focused on your goals. Respect everyone. BE WITH PEOPLE WHO INSPIRE YOU TO BECOME STRONGER AND BETTER.
Who is the strongest person in your life and why?
My Mom! My mom taught me everything: unconditional love, sacrifices for her children, a lot of wisdom, and a lot of advice. She always showed me to be strong when faced with any kind of situation.
Resilience often involves adapting to adversity. What lessons have you learned from challenging situations that have made you more resilient?
The main lessons I’ve learned from challenging situations are to remember how to utilize your inner strengths. When facing life’s challenges, I’ve always strived to stay positive and learn from every experience which has ultimately allowed me to grow and evolve as a person. It’s not the tough times that define who we are but rather how we react to them.
In your opinion, how does one cultivate and maintain mental and emotional resilience in today’s fast paced world?
Take care of ourselves & take time for ourselves. It is important to take care of our physical health as well as our mental health through activities that bring us joy. As well as surround ourselves with positive relationships and recognize negativity.
What do you think of when you hear the word ‘steel’? What does it remind you of?
When I hear the word steel, it makes me think of solidity and resistance, because steel is a durable and strong material. And because I live in Paris, the word steel makes me think of the Eiffel Tower.
How do you view the connection between your cultural background and the values of strength and durability in your life?
As a model and actress, I’ve faced my own set of challenges and pressures, and I’ve drawn on the values of strength and durability instilled by my cultural background to navigate these situations. I believe that these values have helped me stay grounded and true to myself, no matter the circumstances. Ultimately, the connection between my cultural background and these values is a part of who I am, and I carry them with me in my personal and professional life as a source of inspiration and guidance.
How important is it to believe in yourself in order to succeed?
Believing in yourself is extremely important, but also very hard.
I haven’t always been sure of myself. The more I grow up the more I learn with the trials of life to be more sure of myself. I think that the people you are surrounded by is very important. We must learn from our failures, because failures are part of life. We must get out of our comfort zone and set goals.
How do you see fashion and self-expression as tools to communicate themes of strength, resilience, and cultural identity?
For me, personally, I’ve had the privilege of working in the fashion industry and using it as a platform to celebrate both my French cultural identity and my belief in inner strength and resilience. Fashion has allowed me to communicate these themes and inspire others to do the same. It’s a form of art and expression that is not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.
