Jacob Interviews….Fashion Model Thomas Schubert

By: Jacob Elyachar

Fashion models are not always based in New York City, Los Angeles or even in Chicago.  They can be found in unexpected areas like Kansas City.    Since he started his modeling career five years ago, Thomas Schubert has gone from undiscovered to being one of the hottest sought after models in the Kansas City fashion industry.

I had the chance to correspond with Thomas and we discussed the trials and tribulations he faces as a male model, his favorite designers and his opinion on how social media helped the fashion industry.

Jacob Elyachar: When did you first get interested in modeling?

Thomas Schubert: I’ve always had a passion for Photography and Fashion, so about five years ago I made the decision to get professional photos done and send them to an agency. I was granted a three-year contract at this agency, but no work was achieved during these three years. To tell you the truth I really don’t know why, I won’t diss the agent because that’s not who I am or will I gain anything from it, but professionalism wasn’t there, and money was being wasted.
I took a small hiatus, re-grouped, did my own personal research, and I’m currently having the best time modeling independently. I’m obtaining great exposure and my portfolio is building. I’m having a blast!

JE: What were some of the challenges that you faced in the modeling world when you first started out?

TS: The main challenge I’ve faced in the industry is definitely weight, hands down. I’m European & have a slim bod with an extremely high metabolism. Most male models have an athletic to muscular build.  Though currently, that fad seems to be changing and more slim guys are getting more work. Whether it be on the runways, in magazines, billboards, ads, etc.  This is something that I love, gives everyone hope that you don’t have to fit a certain mold, whether you’re male or female.  Being a model is all about creativity, bringing something new, fresh, and standing out.  So why try to fit in? I’m all out being outside of the box, besides there’s more room out here.

JE: Who are some of your favorite designers? Why do you like their products?

TS: The better question would be who isn’t my favorite. I rarely find a piece of clothing I don’t like. It’s all about how it’s worn and who wears it. One piece could look horrible on me, but look fantastic on someone else. That’s the fun part of the whole fashion world. The whole thought process is what interests me; the story behind the article of clothing, the process of it being made, and seeing the end result as well as seeing it being worn.

The designers that push the envelope interest me the most. I love edgy looks. I’m a big fan of the European look; (I’ve lived in the U.S. since I was three-years-old) something about their fashion and how they “wear” their clothes intrigues me, it’s so much more different than here in the states.  Alexander McQueen. Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, H&M, Burberry, Calvin Klein; the list goes on of those I love and that inspire me. It would be a dream come true to rock any of these designers’ clothes.

JE: In your opinion, how has social media helped the fashion industry?

TS: After not adapting to it all at first, fashion finally arrived to the social media party, and in full force might I add.  With sites such as Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and even YouTube, fashion definitely has its outlets.  I mean, a simple image of yourself on your profile, someone’s bound to ask what you are wearing, who made it, and where to get it.  Plus, being able to buy it online, from the comfort of your home, makes it that much easier.

JE: Do you ever see yourself moving to New York or Los Angeles to model in the future? Why/why not?

TS: Yes, actually I’m moving to NYC this November/December.  I love it there, the atmosphere is incredible, so much love and energy.  I’m ready for the next chapter in my life and what better place than “The City That Never Sleeps” where the opportunities are endless. I’m not sure what’s in store for me, but I do hope for the best and will definitely enjoy the ride.

JE: What shows have you worked on?

TS: I’ve only been doing shows since May of this year. I finally gained the courage to start going to casting calls and to my surprise I’ve been accepted to each one that I went to (*Knocks on wood* for further auditions/casting calls).

Here is the list of past/future shows that I’ve had the opportunity to walk in:
“The Rock ‘N’ Fashion Show” – May 5, 2012
“The Bunker Fashion Show” – July 20, 2012
“Fashionably Loud Fashion Show” – August 26, 2012
“Kansas City Fashion Week” (KCFW) – September 8, 2012
“RawKC: ‘Ensemble’ Show” – September 20,2012

JE: If you had the chance to meet with aspiring male models what would you tell them?

TS: I have the luxury of meeting aspiring models weekly, if not almost daily. The number one thing I tell them is to “Be Yourself!” Don’t ever let anyone tell you to change or that you’re not good enough.  Do this for yourself and nobody else. Have fun. If you fall down, get right back up, dust yourself off, and continue on the road. The bumps are what make the journey worth it.  Would be extremely boring if you didn’t have to work for it.
It’s amazing because when I look into their eyes, I can see myself. The feeling of how I felt when I first started, how my heart was beating out of my chest at my first photo shoot or fashion show. The nervousness, the excitement and the everything. Being in that moment, whether it is big or small, somehow thinking “Oh my goodness, I’m doing it.” It may have just been five years ago, but a lot has happened in those 5 years and I wouldn’t change any of it.

To connect with Thomas on various social media platforms, click on the following:

*Facebook: Facebook.com/OfficialThomasSchubert

*Twitter: Twitter/com/ModelToySoldier

*Model Mayhem: Modelmayhem.com/OfficialThomasSchubert