When model Leona “Binx” Walton stepped on to the scene with gamine good looks and a new sense of freshness, optimism and character, she brought about a brilliant change to the fashion game. The American model has fronted campaigns for Céline, Tom Ford and Chanel and walked for Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang and J.W. Anderson this show season. But now, she’s turning her hand to design. The very first Binx x Superga Capsule Collection sees new shapes and styles for the Italian footwear brand. We grabbed some precious time with Binx between shows to find out about friendships, surviving shows and what it feels like to be a designer.
You’re in the thick of the fashion week cycle. What have been the highlights so far?
Alexander Wang definitely was the sickest party hands down. And Proenza is always so sick; I love the boys and the energy they have.
How on earth do you survive the fashion month?
I find I’m in the best mood if I sleep four hours. Anything more, and my body realizes how dead it actually is.
Where are your favorite places to stay in all the fashion cities?
New York, cause I get to chill at my house. When I’m away I miss Phill, my snake.
What’s the best way to eat on the go?
It can be hell, but we really don’t have big selections. Usually the backstage food sucks, so I’ll take what I can get. I try and stay hydrated, drink water and eat fresh wherever I can.
What will you do when it ends? A big beach holiday?
Yessssss! Last season I went to Amsterdam but this season definitely the beach.
Why do you think you’ve become a model “name” whilst others haven’t?
I’m not sure; there have been such beautiful girls that haven’t lasted. I think it comes down to personality — in general, a lot of models are either so cocky and bitchy or completely silent, with not much to say. I’m by no means the most beautiful person and I’m not trying to be, but maybe I’m still around cause I can actually sustain solid conversations with people and keep actual relationships I’ve built over the past three years.
Traveling the world modeling looks like it could be a) incredibly fun, inspiring and glamorous or b) really tiring, disorientating and stressful. What is your take on being a globe-trotting model?
It’s definitely a little bit of both ideas. In a way, it’s glamorous because of the places we stay and the people we see, but it’s different because we also see all of the industry politics. It’s easy to get jaded, but overall, it’s good. You just have to make sure to take small breaks and put things into perspective.
Do you think you connect well with the designers in the industry where some don’t? Like with HBA and Alexander Wang – you’re one of the crew…
I’m only inspired by a few people, but when I’m inspired, I’m really inspired. People like Alex, Karl Templer, Jack and Lazaro, and Jane How are so influential in moving the industry forward and not backwards. I feel that many in this industry – among others – loves to relive the past 40 years in everything they do, but these people really make an effort to reflect current situations. They also make an effort to connect with their girls and make more of a relationship whereas a lot of people just use models like toothpicks. Easy come, easy go. They support us and we support them — as it should be.
Who are your favourite new designers to work with and why?
Alex Wang, Jack and Lazaro. They are young and fun and the atmosphere of the fittings and the show always make me excited.
Who are your favourite fellow models to work with and why?
Issa Lish, Cat McNeil and Lexi Bolling because they are my friends and we make jokes and stuff.
Are you ever in awe of people you work with?
Marc Jacobs’ and Chanel’s sets are usually insane, so I’m always wowed by them for sure.
You’ve done films for us at i-D. Would you ever consider moving into acting?
I would actually, if the part was right. I’m really inspired by people like Harmony Korine, but I wouldn’t want to do anything I’m not really good at. People in acting have worked so hard to get where they are and I don’t feel it’s right to be in a film that you don’t help become better. So if I’m right for a part I’ll work my ass off to make sure I do justice to the other professionals involved.
Has working on your own range for Superga given you a new understanding of the fashion and design industry?
Completely! I have learned so much about what actually goes into planning a shoot and designing products. There are so many limitations to work around and if I have learned anything from Karl Templer it’s that being stern and standing up for what you think will work best matters. Even when people think you’re too harsh, it’s better than getting run over and sacrificing your vision.
What’s your favorite pair from the new collection and why?
I LIKE THEM ALLLLLLLL. I like the classic black leather. They’re easy to wear. And the plain white ones are sick — they go with everything.
Do you think this could be a step towards doing more design work? If so, who would be other dream collaborations?
Yeah maybe, I like it a lot. I’d like to collaborate with Supreme or maybe HBA.
The Binx x Superga Capsule Collection hits stores in mid-October.
Credits
Text Stuart Brumfitt
Photography Devyn Galindo