Queen of the catwalk

ANNA ROBINSON, A 21-YEAR-OLD FORMER FRANKSTON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT, SPEAKS TO SARAH HALFPENNY ABOUT HER METEORIC RISE FROM MELBOURNE MODEL TO WALKING RUNWAYS FOR THE WORLD'S MOST PRESTIGIOUS FASHION HOUSES.

Tell us about the moment you found out you'd be making your worldwide debut walking for Prada in Milan.

I was told I was being considered for the show in April, which was completely unexpected and totally spun me out. I never thought modelling overseas was much of an option, let alone working for a brand like Prada, so it felt like a lot to process, but of course I was over the moon. I had to wait until my casting in Milan at the end of August, so I had a long time to think about it.

When I got the call that I was confirmed, I was in disbelief. The next few days I felt quite overwhelmed trying to process everything, and in some ways a bit sad, realising my life was changing and I probably wouldn’t be spending so much time at home anymore. It was bittersweet. I’ve been modelling in Melbourne for a couple of years now. However, it was more of a side thing and I truly never thought I’d get the chance to do it at this level.

Do you still have connections on the Mornington Peninsula?

Before coming overseas for work, I was living in Carlton North for two years.

However, I still love going down to the Peninsula for daytrips and to visit family. I miss the beach and being in nature.

How was your experience working with brands like Prada, Dior and Chloé?

Awesome and surreal. So far I’ve only had positive experiences, and it’s been cool to work with some very iconic brands and people. I’ve had to stop and pinch myself, trying to savour the moment and process that this is all really happening right now, like wow!

What do you wish people knew about the realities of being a model?

Everyone’s journey is so different. It depends on your mindset, but ultimately a lot of it is out of your control, so the best thing you can do is just go with the flow. One of the hardest things about modelling is it never feels like a very stable job, and everything is so last-minute and uncertain. It’s a lesson in trusting the process and being present in the moment. It can be a very challenging industry to be in if you’re not confident and comfortable within yourself. It’s vital you stay true to yourself.

What aspect of the modelling industry has surprised you most so far?

How lovely everyone is. You hear the horror stories about the fashion and modelling industry but so far that has not been my experience, and I’ve met so many supportive people along the way.

How do you see your career evolving in the next few years?

I’m trying not to have too many expectations. Everything that’s already happened is so much more than I’d ever hoped for. Hopefully I’ll be able to work full-time as a model for the next few years and continue travelling and working with amazing people.