Ève Salvail, a trailblazing model who challenged traditional beauty norms of the 1990s with her iconic shaved head and tattooed body, looks back on her extraordinary career in the world of fashion. Despite not conforming to the conventional standards of the industry, Salvail collaborated with legendary designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier, Versace, and Karl Lagerfeld. In her inspiring memoir “Sois toi et t’es belle” (“Be Yourself and You’re Beautiful”), Salvail delves deep into the triumphs and tribulations of her personal and professional voyage.
Within the pages of her book, Salvail navigates the concept of ‘identities’ and traces her metamorphosis into the empowered individual she is today. She places a strong emphasis on the significance of authenticity and the liberation of shedding societal expectations to unveil one’s true self. As a pioneer of androgynous beauty in the 90s, Salvail conquered the industry with her unique look, attributing her success to a serendipitous alignment of her differences with the evolving times and the welcoming reception she received.
Salvail fondly reminisces about a crucial encounter with Karl Lagerfeld, where she learned the importance of concealing emotions as a strategic necessity for survival in the fiercely competitive world of fashion. She credits Jean-Paul Gaultier for kickstarting her career and steering its course. Salvail candidly discusses battles with addiction and trauma that intertwined with her modeling journey, shedding light on the complexities underlying the glamourous facade.
When prompted about the current industry trends focusing on inclusivity, diversity, and self-empowerment, Salvail expresses her detachment from the fashion realm post-retirement. While she acknowledges limited glimpses of progress on social media platforms like Instagram, she refrains from making sweeping judgments about the broader changes within the industry. Salvail finds it challenging to pinpoint a pinnacle moment from her illustrious career, emphasizing the profound transformative impact those years had on her identity.
Reflecting on her personal evolution, Salvail highlights her internal struggles as the primary hurdles she confronted. Despite adversities, she radiates contentment with the woman she has blossomed into through her modeling odyssey. For those aspiring to break into the rigid confines of the fashion industry, Salvail imparts a potent message: celebrate your uniqueness, embrace authenticity, and rebel against conformity. Ultimately, Salvail’s narrative stands as a powerful testimony to the grace and resilience emanating from staying true to oneself.
To explore more about Ève Salvail and her impactful journey, check out her memoir “Sois toi et t’es belle” here and delve into her groundbreaking work with renowned designers through this Vogue article.
