Jessica Gomes tells how modelling has changed in her time on the catwalk

SHE struggled to break into the Australian modelling industry due to her exotic looks and certainly didn’t think she would still be storming the catwalk at 35, however Jessica Gomes has managed to do both.

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SHE struggled to break into the Australian modelling industry due to her exotic looks and certainly didn’t think she would still be storming the catwalk at 35, however Jessica Gomes has managed to do both.

The 34-year-old, whose stunning looks are a combination of her migrant father’s Portuguese heritage and her mother’s Chinese descent, told Confidential she’s glad the modelling industry is now more inclusive than it was in the past.

“I think the culture has changed within the fashion industry,” Gomes said.

David Jones ambassador Jess Gomes (middle) with models Katy Lee (left) and Kawani Prenter wearing Jets swimwear at Prince Alfred Park Pool in Sydney this week. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“I don’t think (still working at 35) was something I envisaged, so I am very lucky to still be doing what I do.

“I was just at New York fashion week and was seeing girls who were 35 and older model. It is not about being super young.

“Now we are seeing mature girls and diverse girls from all different walks of life.

“There is not a stereotype anymore.

Gomes says modelling has recently grown in reflecting diversity. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“We are broadening our horizons, which is great.”
One year after signing on as the face of Jets Swimwear, Gomes and the local label have created a capsule collection.

“I have created six different pieces and a jumpsuit,” she said.

“The styles are very simple and minimal. The inspiration was the 90s supermodel.”

Gomes applauded the Aussie label for its stance on sustainability.

“We use amazing fabrics and the beautiful thing about Jets is they get everything made in Sydney. Everything is very local.

“They also use eco-friendly fabrics.

“It is incredible what they do.”

Originally published as Jessica Gomes tells how modelling has changed in her time on the catwalk