In this exclusive interview with Lou-Anne Gleißenebner, the winner of “Germany’s Next Topmodel,” we delve into her remarkable life since winning the show. Lou-Anne reflects on the transformative experience and the impact it had on her journey. From her childhood dream of participating in the iconic show to the unexpected surprise of competing alongside her mother, Lou-Anne shares the inspiration behind her decision.
Fab: Lou-Anne, congratulations on winning “Germany’s next Topmodel”! How has life been for you since winning the show?
Lou-Anne: Thank you! It’s been amazing. My Life took a 180°C turn. I’m so thankful for everything. This Show really gave me the push and chance to start a new life chapter.
Fab: What inspired you to apply for Germany’s Next Topmodel, and how did you and your mother decide to compete together?
Lou-Anne: Since I was a kid, I wanted to be a part of Germany’s Next Top Model, and I always told myself that I would try it as soon as I turned 18. When I told my mum, that I wanted to apply for the 17th season of GNTM, she told me that she had already sent an application for herself. So it was a surprise, but I thought that it was really cool.
Fab: You made history on GNTM by competing with your mother as the first mother-daughter team. What was it like sharing this experience with your mom?
Lou-Anne: It was an honour to be the first mother-daughter duo at GNTM. It was so cool to experience this together, and both of us made it to the finals. Our relationship is even better now that we have the same job haha.
Fab: You have been described as having a special charisma that sets you apart from other models. How do you cultivate your unique style and presence, and what advice would you give to aspiring models who want to develop their own distinct identity?
Lou-Anne: Many people have told me that I’m always calm and focused on the “very moment” and that this is maybe the reason why a lot of things work out the way I want them to. I just don’t like to stress myself. I like to enjoy and take my time with the things that I do. Don’t try to be somebody else. You are you, and that’s good, but always work on yourself.
Fab: You have also been praised for your positive attitude and kindness towards others. How do you maintain a sense of positivity and resilience in the face of competition and challenges?
Lou-Anne: For me, it’s really important to be kind and help others, regardless of the situation I’m in. So yes, I was in a competition, but I did it for myself. I wanted to test myself. How good can I get? What can I learn? The best thing to do is to focus on yourself. You want to get into the next round of the competition. Show them how good you are. It has nothing to do with others or whether I’m good or bad at something. That’s why I’m always kind to others, even when they are better than me.
Fab: How did your upbringing in Klosterneuburg shape your sense of style and influence your career path? And what inspired you to become a hairdresser before pursuing modelling
Lou-Anne: Klosterneuburg hasn’t really had an impact on my career now. I wanted to earn my own money and do something creative. So I dropped out of school and decided to apply for an apprenticeship at a well-known and expensive hair salon.
Fab: You mentioned wanting to have fun above all else on GNTM. What are some other things you do for fun in your free time?
Lou-Anne: That’s right. I love cooking and baking, and I also take boxing, acting, and singing classes.
Fab: What was the most important thing you learned from your experience on the show? And What do you think sets GNTM apart from other modelling competitions, and how do you think it has evolved over the years?
Lou-Anne: To enjoy the time that you have. Because you never know when it ends. To be honest, I’ve never watched other modelling competitions. I just think that GNTM is a great show with interesting characters, cool ideas, and nice locations, and you can learn a lot while being there.
Fab: How do you balance staying true to your personal style while also meeting the demands and expectations of the fashion industry?
Lou-Anne: Of course it can be hard, but you really need to be “secure” in your own skin so you don’t feel the need to change something just because a few designers don’t like the way your face, body, or hair look. I’m trying to stay the way I am, unless I want to change something myself, not because somebody else wants it.
Fab: What has been the most exciting photoshoot or campaign you’ve worked on since winning “Germany’s next Topmodel”?
Lou-Anne: I had a lot of great jobs, but one of my favourites will always be the Runway job I had in New York last September. It was my first time in New York. Other than that, all of the jobs I have had have been exciting; there is always something new, and sometimes I even see myself on posters in the city or in magazines, so that’s really cool.
Fab: What is your process for preparing for a photoshoot or runway show? Do you have any rituals or routines that you follow?
Lou-Anne: Actually, no, haha. In general, I try to stay fit, look after myself, and try new poses in front of a mirror.
Fab: How important do you find using your platform to advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the fashion world?
Lou-Anne: For me, it’s really important to show everyone that you don’t have to be 90-60-90 to be a good model. Diversity is a big thing, and I’m glad it is since there are so many people on this earth and we all look different. In short, it’s really important to me.
Fab: What advice would you give to aspiring models who may be hesitant to pursue a career in an industry known for its exclusivity and elitism?
Lou-Anne: Just try it. If you don’t try it, you will never know what the outcome will be.
Fab: What are your thoughts on the role of social media in the modelling industry, and how do you use it to your advantage?
Lou-Anne: Nowadays, models also need to advertise brands on social media, and I think that’s good since everybody uses platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Stay up to date on the newest in the world of Fashion, Arts, Beauty and Lifestyle; Follow FAB on socials.
Fab: Looking towards the future, what are your hopes and goals for your modelling career, and how do you see yourself making a lasting impact in the fashion world?
Lou-Anne: My plan is to work more internationally. Right now I’m self-employed, and my full-time job is modelling. I want it to stay that way, which means I want to work a lot and make good money. I want to see the world and learn new things about every country and their culture. Really, I hope everything works out as I imagine it, because I can tell that this is the right job for me. It pushes me and gives me energy.
Fun Zone: #FabFast5
- What’s the one fashion trend you wish would make a comeback?
I actually don’t care about “trends.” I wear whatever I want to wear.
- What’s your guilty pleasure when it comes to food or drinks?
Most of the time, I only drink water, but when it comes to food, I love chocolate haha.
- What’s your go-to playlist when you’re getting ready for a night out?
I actually never listen to music when I’m getting ready for a night out because I just talk to my best friend that I live with. - If you had to choose between wearing high heels or sneakers for the rest of your life, which would you choose?
Probably High heels. They make me feel strong, independent, and sexy hahaha (I feel like that most of the time, but I just love high heels.)
- If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A black one. I love black. Most of my outfits are black. I think it just looks the best with my blond, short hair.
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