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 modelling 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 Switzerland straight to Spain: the 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 modelling, 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 a smooth high-gloss look, FAVELA deliberately chooses settings with character: rough coastal landscapes, real light, no overproduced studio setups. This is clearly visible in the current campaign. Choosing 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 was no coincidence

International fashion shoots don’t take place by chance in certain locations. Spain – and in particular 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 in professional campaigns as the models themselves. This requires models to be travel-ready, flexible and accustomed to working internationally – qualities that a serious modelling agency fosters from the start.

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, combining 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 via Switzerland and Ireland – a nice testament to the fact that good models know no geographical boundaries.

International modelling – 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 now the norm – not the 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.

This is how CM Models work on international productions

An international campaign like this is the result of months of groundwork: portfolios, castings, test shoots, agency meetings. Anyone who submits a professional model portfolio for casting and applies to an agency with real reach significantly increases their chances. CM Models has offices in several cities – whether you start with the model agency Berlin, the model agency Hamburg or through becoming a model in Frankfurt, the international network remains the same.

“Modelling on international campaigns is not luck – it is the result of consistent preparation, the right team and the courage to take unfamiliar paths.”

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What this campaign reveals about the state of men’s modelling

Men’s modelling has changed dramatically in recent years. Where smooth perfection used to dominate, character, individuality and versatility are now key. Campaigns like that of 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 it really means to become a model today.

Body image and diversity in men’s fashion

FAVELA features two men who look different, have different builds and come from different ethnic backgrounds. This is not tokenism – it’s market intelligence. Consumers identify with diversity. Anyone who believes the minimum height for a modelling agency is the only relevant criterion underestimates how much the industry has shifted towards personality. There are now modelling agencies without a minimum height that are deliberately responding to this change.

Styling and production details as brand messaging

Looking at the images, one thing stands out: the styling is more restrained, almost minimal – the clothing should speak for itself, not the surrounding elements. This requires models to be physically in top shape, but also to understand how clothing appears in photos and videos. Runway and catwalk experience is extremely helpful here, as it teaches how movement and posture can showcase clothing. These skills transfer directly to the campaign shoot.

How to successfully start modelling

The FAVELA campaign 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’s an overview that structures your entry into the world of modelling:

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 A professional model portfolio is mandatory
Getting Started Take on first jobs, build network Model part-time is a good start
Growth Expand internationally Set London, New York, Paris as targets

Who wants to contact a modelling 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 modelling: what does it pay 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 high-quality photos available
  • ☐ Measurements documented and up to date
  • ☐ Modelmappe professionell zusammengestellt
  • ☐ Research into reputable agencies completed
  • ☐ No agency with upfront fees selected
  • ☐ Casting appointment prepared and booked
  • ☐ Reisebereitschaft und Flexibilität eingeplant
  • ☐ Social media presence maintained and professional

Anyone who can tick all these points is ready for the next step: 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 modelling

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 shoots. What matters most is presence, flexibility and fit with the brand identity – not just physical attributes. Anyone who impresses at the CM Models casting will be added to 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 postcode.

Is modelling 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 modelling. There are also growing opportunities for curvy models – 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 dates 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 a reflection of current trends all in one.

Men’s modelling 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 modelling.

  • 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 modelling in 2025 means: be real, be flexible, be curious. The brands setting the standard today are not looking for mannequins – they are looking for personalities.

Anyone wanting to start a career as a male model will find all the necessary information at CM Models. The application process takes place online directly – without advance fees, without hidden costs. More about the specific requirements and career path can be found in our guide on how to become a model. Current dates for men’s castings are available via the casting overview.