Beginning his modelling career while studying economics in London, Armando Cabral is more than just a pretty face, he is the definition of Supermodel and a trail-blazing one at that.
Armando began his career at age 17 in London, at a time where he was ‘the only black model walking in Paris and Milan’. His early work included bookings with Alexander McQueen, Puma and Benetton. Disillusioned with the he industry, for a brief period, he toyed with working in finance for eight months before returning to modelling. This kind of academic knowledge and experience he actually cites at the secret to his success and longevity.
“…clients look for models that are a total package. Which to me is the secret to a long career. In my case for example, I have other interests, I started my own brand, and my academic background allows me to discuss and talk about any topic…”
And success and longevity he has had. His career took off after his first major show, were he was booked exclusively for Calvin Klein in Milan. Since then he has gone on to be one of the worlds biggest male supermodels. Gracing the cover of Details Magazine’s ‘31 of the Top Male Models’ and walking shows for several of the industries biggest brands and houses, including Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, Dior Homme and Dries Van Noten. A true man of the world, he joins the ranks of Elite Paris, Wilhelmina New York and The Squad. In 2013 he was honoured for his achievements in Fashion by the President of Guinea Bissau, his country of birth. In an interview with Nataal, he describes the experience as “like the whole country came out to receive me”.
At age 33, he shows no signs of slowing down. In recent years he has appeared in work by Prada, Brunello Cucinelli and Fendi and has expanded his oeuvre of work with the launch of his own brand of luxury designer shoes. Armando has described in an interview with Male Model Scene, that he has seen the fashion industry move towards a more diverse landscape, one that is long lasting, more than just a trend. No doubt his own career has paved the way for this change. As Cabral puts it: “Africa defines me. This generation is awaken and setting the tone for the future.”
Story By Talica Gummery
Edited By Isabelle Virrey & Tiffany Lu
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