In a city where style and legacy walk hand in hand, Milan sets the perfect backdrop for rising international model Gabriele Mocini, captured in striking form by fashion photographer Anthony Pomes. In this exclusive feature, Gabriele opens up about his journey from a teenage discovery to international runways, sharing how his passion for fashion, fitness, and fine art shapes every frame he steps into. From working with top-tier brands like Trussardi to reflecting on the stories behind each editorial, this is an intimate look into a model who balances precision with emotion—and Milan with a global mindset.
Gabriele, your striking features and commanding presence have made you a standout in the fashion industry. How did your journey as a model begin, and what were some of the key moments that helped shape your career?
1- My journey in to modelling began with a strong passion for fashion and photography; I was first scouted while I was still completing my studies on a family vacation at 15 yo. Back home I signed with an agency in Roma and I’m still really thankful to her for taking care of me until today. Since then, I started collaborating as an international model with agencies that helped me refine my skills and build a professional portfolio. One of the key turning point was signing with some of the most prestigious and talented agency of the world, which gave me international exposure and opened doors to broader opportunities.
Thought my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with talented photographers and creative teams, each experience shaping my perspective of the industry. One of the most defining moment was participating in high-profile editorial shoot, which pushed me to evolve both in front of the camera and as a professional.
The fashion industry is highly competitive, and every opportunity is a chance to learn and grow. I’ve faced challenges, from maintaining consistency in a fast-paced environment to adapting to different markets, but these have only strengthened my determination!
Looking ahed, I’m to continue expanding my career collaborating with top brands, and exploring new creative avenues within the industry.
You’ve worked with high-profile brands like Trussardi and been featured in prestigious magazines like Esquire Singapore. How do you approach each new project, and what is your process for bringing a fresh, unique energy to every shoot?
2- I had the privilege to spent a good amount of time in Singapore and to be faced on some of his most relevant magazines such as Esquire Singapore’s “The success Issue”, which I still feel so bless about, working with best teams is something priceless. About Trussardi I feel really blessed to have the opportunity to meet and work with Trussardi’s team, working with great people will make you great!
Every new project is an opportunity to tell a different story and bring a unique perspective to the brand or publication I’m working with. My approach starts with research, I make sure to understand the vision of the creative team, the aesthetics of the brand and the message behind the shoot. Whether is for a fashion campaign, an editorial, or a runway show, I adapt my energy and expression to feet the mood and style required. To keep my work fresh I grow inspiration from art, photography and even everyday life; I believe that modelling is about more than just posing, it’s about embodying an attitude and conveying emotions that connect with the audience. Before every shoot I prepare physically and mentally, focusing on movement, posture and expression to ensure I bring something dynamic and authentic to every frame.
Ultimately my goal is to make each project stand out by adding my personal touch while respecting the creative direction; working with talented photographers, stylist and designers pushes me to evolve and I always aim to bring something new to the table, wether it’s trough subtle changes in expression or experimenting with different ways to carry myself in front of the camera.
Your versatility as a model has been a major factor in your success. How do you maintain that adaptability across different campaigns, from fashion to commercial, while still staying true to your personal brand?
3- Versatility is key in the fashion industry and I approach each project with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. Every campaigns has a different vision, wether it’s a high fashion editorial, a commercial shoot, or a runway show. My goal is to fully understand the essence of each brand while maintaining authenticity in my work.
I prepare by studying the mood boards, understanding the target audience, and working closely with the creative team to bring their vision to life. Physically I keep myself in to shape to be ready for any type of shoot, wether it requires sharp, structured poses for a luxury brand or a more natural lifestyle feel for a commercial campaign.
Fitness plays a big role in your life, and it’s evident in your powerful presence in front of the camera. How does your fitness routine influence your modelling career, and are there any specific practices you follow to stay in top shape?
4- I feel the best I ever felt!
Fitness is a crucial part of my lifestyle and directly impacts my work as a model; maintaining peak physical condition not only helps me look my best for shoots and runways shows but also give me the energy, confidence and endurance needed for long working hours.
My routine is a mix of strength training, functional workouts and flexibility exercise to keep my physique balanced and agile. I focus on core strength, posture and mobility like yoga, which help me move naturally and with control in front of the camera. Cardio and high intensity training are also essential to maintain a lean and defined look.
Beyond physical training, I prioritise recovery, nutrition and mindfulness; proper sleep, hydration and a clean diet are just as important as the workouts themselves. I also practice stretching and meditation to stay mentally sharp and relaxed. On a stressful day, basketball or surf sessions are my escape route from the city!
Beyond your work as a model, you’re passionate about art and travel. How do these interests inform your approach to modeling, and in what ways do they inspire your creativity on set?
5- Art and travel are two of my biggest passions and they deeply influence my perspective as a model. Art teaches me about composition, light and story telling, elements that are essentials in photography and fashion. Wether it’s studying classic painting, modern sculptures or editorial photography, I draw inspirations from different artistic styles to bring depth and emotion to my work in front of the camera. Travel on the other end, expose me to diverse cultures, people and aesthetics; experiencing different environments and fashion scenes helps me adapt quickly to new creative directions and bring fresh energy to each project. Each city from Milan to Paris to New York, has it’s own rhythm and artistic influence and I use these experiences to add authenticity and nuance to my poses and expressions.
They remind me that fashion is not just about clothing, it’s about conveying a feeling, a story, a cultural moment.
Bringing that mindset to set allows me to approach each shoot with curiosity, creativity and a sense of connection to the world around me.
As a rising star in the international modelling scene, what are your long-term goals? Are there particular types of campaigns or collaborations you’d like to pursue in the future, and how do you envision your career evolving in the years to come?
6- As I continue to grow in the international modelling scene, my long term goals is to establish myself as a versatile and recognisable figure in the fashion industry. I aim to collaborate with top luxury brands, work on high fashion magazines and be part of campaigns that push creative boundaries. Walking for major fashion houses is definitely something I aspire to.
Beyond runway and editorial work, I’m also interest in exploring creating collaborations that go beyond traditional modelling, wether is working with innovative designers, being part of artistic project that merge fashion and other forms of expression or even branching in to acting or brand ambassadorships is something that get my attention and curiosity.
I see my career evolving in a way that allows me to built a personal brand, not just as a model but as a creative individual; fashion is always changing and I want to grow with it , staying adaptable while maintaining a strong identity. Ultimately I hope to use my platforms to inspire others and contribute to projects that have a cultural and artistic impact!
Credits
@gabriele.mocini
Wearing @intimissimiuomo & @versace
