Welcome back to Model of the Month, the Style Cartel interview series that spotlights up-and-coming models. This series provides behind the scenes coverage from within the modelling industry – this is our second instalment.
Jakob Calvert
Meet Jakob Calvert, the 24-year-old English model that we at Style Cartel had the pleasure of working with. A full time model, yet Jakob still has a wide breadth of interests outside of his career. He loves sports, football in particular, and is training for an Ironman 70.3 – no easy feat! Jakob graduated from Sussex University in 2024 where he studied economics and finance. His education and love for cooking have led him to his current business venture, a croquette wine bar called Croqs Bar, that he’s started with his friend. Although their business is still in the early stages, they’ve already had several couple pop ups in Oxford and we recommend keeping an eye out for any future Croqs Bar events! Jakob is English born and raised, but interestingly, LA is where he first started his modelling career.
“A few family members had suggested I look into [modelling], but my focus was on finishing my studies first. After graduating, I went out to LA to visit my auntie, who really encouraged me to give it a go. I ended up sending an application to an agency and they asked me to come in. Unfortunately, visa issues meant I couldn’t work there, but they were really helpful – they took some photos and suggested I meet with my now mother agent, PRM, in London, which is how it all started.”
Working with Jakob was wonderful – he was polite, professional, and quietly funny. We joked about eBikes and the difficulties of getting around in London when directionally challenged. During his interview, he tells us that modelling wasn’t initially his plan.
“After graduating, I was pretty unsure about my next step but from my time at university I had a feeling it would probably be something in the sports finance world.”
Jakob’s Modelling Experience
It seems that it’s all worked out for the best and that everything happens for a reason. Jakob loves the job. Of course, modelling has its challenges, but, thankfully, Jakob has a sense of humour about it. He shares his insights on the industry and his experiences – how it’s helped him grow as a person and what’s surprised him.
“My favourite part [of modelling] is getting the chance to meet so many interesting people and hearing their stories while on shoots. I also enjoy being pushed out of my comfort zone – it’s taught me to embrace those slightly awkward or uncomfortable moments. My least favourite part is probably having to shampoo my hair about five times after certain shoots … there’s always so much product in it! [What surprised me the most was] just how nice and friendly everyone is. Everyone I’ve worked with has taken really good care of me and has been super positive and uplifting.”
It’s fitting that Jakob’s modelling career started because his auntie urged him to apply, it’s clear that family is important to him. When asked about his inspirations, Jakob tells us, “My parents who manage to put up with me, and my two sisters, all whilst remaining incredibly supportive and encouraging.”
Shoot Prep
For Jakob, prepping for a shoot is fairly simple. The day before, he tries to drink lots of water, get some form of exercise in, and makes sure that he’s getting a good night’s sleep. He often looks at a client’s website and social media before the shoot, to get a feel for the brand. Jakob keeps his skincare routine simple, which he’s perfected with his girlfriend’s help. The last step of his shoot prep is to leave his headphones on his nightstand the night before, “[I] chuck them straight on as soon as I wake up to get me moving and out of bed.”
Media Recommendations
We wondered what a full time model who is training for an Ironman and who has a budding business does in their – surely limited – free time. In Jakob’s case, he loves podcasts and books. He gives us some recommendations.
“I’m a big fan of podcasts, especially when I’m running – they definitely keep me sane, particularly on the longer, slower runs. My favourite is Off Menu, where they bring on guests to talk through their dream three course meal, which usually just makes me think about food instead of running – a good distraction! I also really enjoy reading, often when I’m travelling or on holiday – I’ve just finishing Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts, which I thought was an amazing read and would definitely recommend.”
In that same vein, Jakob tells us what he can’t live without: “Music. I love all kinds of music, and I’ll often have it playing regardless of what I’m doing. It keeps me going during the day and helps me unwind at night.”
Jakob’s Advice
Jakob’s modelling career has been very successful thus far. He models globally and is signed with modelling agencies in the UK, Italy, and Spain. In five years, Jakob still sees himself modelling. He hopes that by then, alongside modelling, he’ll be managing a thriving croquette wine bar, while still making sure that he’s enjoying life to the fullest.
Of course, modelling is a notoriously difficult industry to break into, but Jakob tells those interested in modelling or fashion to stay hopeful. He leaves us with one last bit of advice, “Give it a go! You never know what can happen unless you give it a shot. Always be open and excited in what you do and don’t take anything personally.”
It was wonderful having the opportunity to interview Jakob. Check him out on Instagram, @jakobavc. If you liked this interview, make sure to read our previous Model of the Month interview and follow us for more fashion content: @StyleCartel on Instagram and @StyleCartelMedia on TikTok, too.
Photography by Amelia Rudd, @amelia_flos. Styling by Kyla Campbell, @kylacampbell_. Clothing courtesy of Percival, @percival_menswear.