“Stop smiling. That’s your model face,” says the voiceover in one of Calum Harper’s energetic and humorous TikTok videos, which has garnered around 50 million views.
When asked by the Karl Lagerfeld brand how he defines an icon, the British model responded with “expressive” after being cast for their fall 2024 campaign.
Harper is known for his ability to demystify the modeling world, bringing humor to stressful castings while playfully addressing his stress-induced breakouts, gangly limbs, and red hair.
The campaign features three emerging talents, photographed by Chris Colls. Alongside Harper is Raya Martigny, a transgender model, actress, and activist, who recently made waves during the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games by strutting down a banquet table-turned-runway.
Kat Q, described by Karl Lagerfeld as a “non-conformist fashion muse,” is also part of the campaign. She is the co-founder and buying director of Labstore London, a high-end multibrand boutique. Rounding out the group is Alyda Grace, a ballet dancer turned fashion model.
The campaign highlights “elevated statement pieces,” reflecting Lagerfeld’s signature style of graphic black-and-white dressing while incorporating striking elements into minimal looks. Harper sports a classic black suit, Lagerfeld’s go-to uniform, while Martigny dazzles in a cold-shoulder dress with a high white collar, a look synonymous with the late fashion icon.
