Walking the runway for Victoria’s Secret was my dream come true

Well-known Swedish model (and honorary Aussie) Kelly Gale takes on the Big Apple in new-season streetwear.

Kelly Gale poses for Stellar in NYC wearing G-Star RAW t-shirt (worn underneath) and shoes, Christopher Esber sheer top and pants. Picture: Max Papendieck

FOR years, Australia has tried to claim Kelly Gale as one of our own.

Born and raised in Sweden to an Indian mother and Australian father, the model’s link to the lucky country can seem tenuous at best, but with her striking features and resumé, it’s no wonder we want to adopt her.

“I love Australia,” gushes the 21-year-old when asked of her affinity with her supposed motherland.

“The people are similar to Swedes, but more open.”

Gale wears Christopher Esber top, G-Star Raw jeans. Picture: Max Papendieck

But today it is on the streets of New York City where Gale works the camera for Stellar, draped in a fitting mix of threads from Australian fashion brands and Dutch streetwear label G-Star RAW, for whom the model is currently a muse as well as the face of its collaboration with camera company Leica.

Gale wears G-Star RAW jacket, Christopher Esber dress. Picture: Max Papendieck

Gale wears Ellery top, G-Star RAW pants. Picture: Max Papendieck

“There’s a level of nostalgia with G-Star. It was my first pair of favourite jeans,” she recalls.

Scouted at the age of 13, Gale has graced the runway for the likes of Chanel, and recently walked in the Victoria’s Secret show for the third time.

“When I walk (at the VS show) there’s just a million emotions and thoughts that run through my mind,” says Gale.

“I started dreaming about this show when I was 13, and saw Adriana Lima on the runway, so it really is a dream come true.”

Gale wears G-Star RAW shirt, MLM skirt. Picture: Max Papendieck