Six months ago, Willow Allen said goodbye to her hometown of Inuvik in the subarctic climates of the Northwest Territories to pursue her university degree in Edmonton. Little did she know that when she got to the city, she would also begin her international modeling career with Mode Models. In just half a year, Willow has already worked with major Canadian fashion icons like Paul Hardy, Nonie, and UNTTLD, shot multiple campaigns with Sugarlash Pro and New Classics, and signed with Ave Model Management in Singapore! Here is a quick chat about the importance of Indigenous Fashion Week, her inspirations, and what it’s like being the face of PARKSHOW 2019!

Simons 2.jpg — “I don’t know what I would do without my family or my Indigenous culture.”

How would you describe your personal style and do you have a favourite Canadian designer?

Becoming a part of the fashion industry and modelling for amazing designers have had a huge impact on my personal style, which is constantly changing. I’d say my favourite Canadian label is UNTTLD. I've had the opportunity to work with and get to know both the designers [José St-Jacques and Simon Bélanger]. Being able to see them grow and succeed makes me really happy.

Who are some of your biggest inspirations?

Canadian supermodel Winnie Harlow is a huge inspiration to me. She’s made such a big and important impact in redefining how the world sees beauty. But the biggest inspiration in my life is God. Everyday I strive to live my life through Him.

You’ve walked multiple runways but is there one in particular that stands out the most?

“Otahpiaaki is where Indigenous peoples are able to show the beauty of their cultures and freely express their identities.”

I began working with PARK about three weeks after I started modelling, and I’m really honoured that they hosted some of the first runway shows I was in. Otahpiaaki Fashion Week 2018 has definitely been my favourite show. Otahpiaaki is where Indigenous peoples are able to show the beauty of their cultures and freely express their identities. My home community is very important to me and I don’t know what I would do without my family or my Indigenous culture.

You are the face of PARKSHOW 2019! What was it like shooting the campaign and what is your favourite look?

Shooting the campaign was amazing! I have had the pleasure of working with the PARK team a lot over the last six months, and I absolutely love everyone and how they all work together. My favourite look is the blue pleated dress from Self Portrait. I think Jason Eng did an absolutely amazing job capturing its movement!

Will we see you at PARKSHOW 2019? Click here to reserve your weekend passes to the BIGGEST show of the season!