FAVELA Clothing – new campaign with Basile Lafrej and Dohoo Kang
Two men, two continents, one brand – and a campaign that shows what international men’s modeling looks like today. Dohoo Kang and Basile Lafrej, both signed with CM Models, are the faces of the latest campaign by FAVELA Clothing. From Ireland and the Swiss directly to Spain: These guys have not only conquered the seas – they are shaping the look of an entire generation. What makes this campaign so special, what it reveals about the fashion world, and what you can learn from it for your own path into modeling, you’ll find out here.
FAVELA Clothing – A Brand with Principles
FAVELA Clothing is not an ordinary streetwear brand. The label stands for an aesthetic that balances urban realism with international lifestyle flair – raw, direct, without unnecessary fuss. The brand’s campaigns are driven by real characters, not faceless mannequins. That’s exactly what makes the collaboration with CM Models so fitting: Both sides seek authenticity over perfection.
What Sets FAVELA Apart from Other Streetwear Labels
While many brands go for smooth high-gloss visuals, FAVELA consciously chooses settings with character: rough coastal landscapes, real light, no overproduced studio setups. This is clearly visible in the current campaign. Spain as a backdrop was no coincidence – the contrasts of white walls, deep blue sea, and Mediterranean sunlight perfectly match the brand’s promise. Such productions demand from models more than just presence – they require real charisma and the ability to tell a story. Those who want to know more about how to prepare for such productions will find valuable insights in the casting preparation tips.
Spain as a campaign location: why this is no coincidence
International fashion shoots don’t happen by chance in certain locations. Spain – and especially the south coast – offers lighting conditions that no studio photo can replicate. For a brand like FAVELA, this natural drama is worth its weight in gold. Locations are chosen as carefully for professional campaigns as the models themselves. This requires models to be travel-ready, flexible, and accustomed to working internationally – qualities that a serious model agency fosters from the beginning.
Dohoo Kang and Basile Lafrej – Two personalities, a strong duo
What makes a campaign duo strong is not uniformity – it’s contrast. Dohoo Kang brings a precise, almost sculptural presence that combines Korean model aesthetics with European runway experience. Basile Lafrej, on the other hand, embodies a Mediterranean-infused energy that shifts between relaxed and focused. Both joined the CM family through Switzerland and Ireland – a nice testament to the fact that good models know no geographical boundaries.
International modeling – more than just a good face
Dohoo and Basile are examples of what modern models need to bring to the table: linguistic flexibility, cultural understanding, travel experience, and the ability to work with different teams and directors. Anyone who seriously wants to take the steps to become a model should understand early on that international work is standard today – not an exception. The Big 4 Fashion Weeks in New York, London, Milan, and Paris are the main stages, but often the strongest campaigns are created outside of the major runway events.
How CM Models Work on International Productions
An international campaign like this is the result of months of groundwork: portfolios, castings, test shootings, agency meetings. Whoever submits a professional model portfolio for the casting and applies to an agency with real reach significantly increases their chances. CM Models has offices in several cities – whether you start in the model agency Berlin, the model agency Hamburg or through become a model in Frankfurt, the international network remains the same.
“Modeling on international campaigns is not luck – it is the result of consistent preparation, the right team and the courage to take unfamiliar paths.”
What this campaign reveals about the state of men’s modeling
Men’s modeling has dramatically changed in recent years. Where smooth perfection used to dominate, character, uniqueness, and versatility are now in focus. Campaigns like the one by FAVELA Clothing show that brands are increasingly relying on models who bring a real story – not just glossy copies. This has direct implications for what becoming a model really means today.
Body image and diversity in men’s fashion
FAVELA relies on two men who look different, have different builds, and come from different ethnic backgrounds. This is not quota thinking – this is market intelligence. Consumers identify with diversity. Anyone who believes the minimum height for a model agency is the only relevant criterion underestimates how much the industry has shifted towards personality. Today there are model agencies without a minimum height that deliberately respond to this change.
Styling and production details as brand messages
Looking at the images, one thing becomes clear: The styling is restrained, almost minimal – the clothing should speak for itself, not the surrounding elements. This requires models to be physically in shape, but also to understand how clothing appears on photo and video. Runway and catwalk experience is extremely helpful because you learn how movement and posture can showcase clothing. These skills transfer directly to the campaign shoot.
How to successfully start in modeling
The campaign by FAVELA with Dohoo and Basile is inspiring – but what lies behind it if you want to take this path yourself? It requires a clear plan, the right environment, and realistic expectations. Here is an overview that structures your entry:
| Phase | Step | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Check measurements, take photos | Model measurements and requirements should be known |
| Application | Research and contact agencies | Only agencies without fees are reliable |
| Casting | Submit portfolio, attend casting | Professional model portfolio is mandatory |
| Entry | Take first jobs, build network | Modeling part-time is a good start |
| Growth | Expand internationally | Set London, New York, Paris as goals |
Who wants to contact a model agency should first thoroughly research which agencies match their own profile. A look at the Top 10 Model Agencies provides a good overview of the industry’s leading players.
What do I really earn as a model?
One of the most common questions when it comes to modeling: What does it bring financially? The honest answer is: It depends heavily on category, agency, and market segment. What a model earns depends on jobs, experience, and reach. Models who start part-time can certainly achieve a stable side income before taking the step into full-time work.
Checklist: Are you ready for your first campaign application?
- ☐ Current photos of good quality available
- ☐ Measurements documented and up to date
- ☐ Modelmappe professionell zusammengestellt
- ☐ Research on reputable agencies completed
- ☐ No agency with upfront fees selected
- ☐ Casting appointment prepared and booked
- ☐ Reisebereitschaft und Flexibilität eingeplant
- ☐ Social-Media-Presence maintained and professional
Who can check off all these points is ready for the next step: the direct application. You can apply directly to CM Models via apply now – uncomplicated and without hidden costs.
Frequently asked questions about the FAVELA campaign and modeling
How are models selected for international campaigns like FAVELA?
The selection process takes place through the agency, which pitches the model’s portfolio to the brand. This is followed by digital castings or direct test shootings. What matters most is presence, flexibility, and fit with the brand identity – not just external features. Anyone who impresses at the casting at CM Models gets into the pool for exactly these kinds of international projects.
Do I have to live in a specific city to model internationally?
No. Dohoo Kang and Basile Lafrej come from different countries and still work for international brands. What matters is being connected to a strong agency with an international network. Whether you start becoming a model in London or becoming a model in New York – the agency opens the doors, not the postal code.
Is modeling as a side job realistic?
Absolutely. Many successful models start part-time, gain experience and then decide whether to take the step into full-time modeling. Curvy models also have growing opportunities – becoming a curvy model is no longer a niche topic, but a standalone, in-demand segment.
Which Fashion Weeks are particularly relevant for aspiring models?
The most important events are the New York Fashion Week, the Paris Fashion Week, the Milan Fashion Week, and the London Fashion Week. For the German-speaking region, the Fashion Week Berlin is a strong starting point. These events are not only runway shows – they are networking platforms, casting opportunities, and reflections of current trends all in one.
Men’s Modeling today: What brands are really looking for
The FAVELA campaign with Dohoo Kang and Basile Lafrej is a precise reflection of what modern brands expect from male models – and it goes far beyond classic measurements. Authenticity, versatility, and the ability to credibly embody a brand identity are today’s central casting criteria. Whoever understands and deliberately develops these qualities has the best chances in men’s modeling.
- Authentic character beats generic model look
- Linguistic flexibility opens international set doors
- Posture and movement are trainable – and crucial
- Social media presence increases market value measurably
- Willingness to travel is a basic requirement for international campaigns
Men’s modeling in 2025 means: Be real, be flexible, be curious. The brands setting the standards today are looking for personalities – not mannequins.
Anyone who wants to start as a male model can find all the necessary information at CM Models. The application is done directly online – without advance fees, without hidden costs. More about the specific requirements and career path can be found in our how to become a model guide. Current dates for men’s castings are available via the casting overview.
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