Oyster Fashion: Willy Cartier x Nabil
A shoot featuring Dior, Miu Miu and more, plus we interview the gender-bending model of the moment.
You probably recognise long-haired male model Willy Cartier from men's runway shows, the Givenchy campaign with Lea T, or perhaps, more recently, from Frank Ocean's Instagram. In photoshoots the Frenchman has an uncanny ability to play both a man and a woman (and manages to portray both very well). In the shoot above, photographer Nabil captures this roleplay exclusively for Oyster, plus we catch up with the gender-bending model of moment.
Alice Cavanagh: Where were you born?
Willy Cartier: In Paris.
How old are you?
I'm approaching my 10th anniversary of being 12.
Do you have any siblings?
No, I am an only child.
What was your impression of the world when you were growing up?
It was bigger then that what it is now!
Has the way you view the world changed?
Sometimes.
What is your favourite film?
Coffee and Cigarettes.
Favourite song?
'Lie to Me' by Johnny Long.
When are you happiest?
That's a tough question, but thinking of a happy future makes me happy.
How do you find peace?
One cigarette at a time.
When did you start modeling?
Two years ago.
Are you comfortable playing a woman?
I'm most happy as a man, but when I'm acting in a role I'm comfortable to do whatever I need to do to achieve the character.
How do you get into character as a woman?
I try to be like Lara Stone.
Who are your role models?
My father, and Marlon Brando.
Where would you like to live most in the world?
I am very happy in Paris, but I could live anywhere if it is somewhere that inspires me.
If the world was to end tomorrow, what would you do tonight?
Ask me tomorrow.
Photographer: Nabil
Fashion: Rita Zebdi
Hair: Valerie Hernandez
Make-up: Karina Moore
Photo Assistant: Steve Perilou
Model: Willy Cartier @ Success Models Paris
Alice Cavanagh
