Debbie Grieve - Meet The Models

In this months Meet The Models, we've been chatting to the one and only Debbie Grieve!

Hey Debbie,

1) How did you get into the industry?

I was spotted by a photographer in 1964, whilst I was working as a secretary in London. I was waiting in his studio reception with a friend who was collecting photos, and he came out and asked me if I had ever considered modelling. He then rang one of the top agencies at the time 'Penny Personal Management' who took me on and the rest is history!

2) Do you remember your first job?

Yes, my first job was a Pepsi Cola commercial. I couldn't believe my luck -I earned more for that than in a whole year as a secretary!

3) What’s been your favourite campaign you have worked on and why?

Probably the two campaigns I did for the hosiery brands 'Pretty Polly' and 'Aristoc'. Posters of my legs everywhere! But actually, perhaps my favourite was for 'Ford Capri' cars because we spent a week shooting an epic commercial in the beautiful Dolomites.

4) Any advice to new faces?

That's a hard one as the Industry has changed so much. Make sure you have a strong social media presence. Be kind, considerate and turn up on time. Remember you're working as part of a team. It's not just about you. Make sure you have a good support system around you, and remember it's not the be all and end all and doesn't define who you are.

5) Do you have a beauty routine?

Yes, its pretty simple. I cleanse, tone and moisturise every morning and evening. And I've always taken my make-up off before bed however late I've come home! I use organic products as much as possible and switch them up regularly. I also eat a healthy balanced diet, with the occasional glass of red wine (which is good for you!), and I keep active, making sure I walk as much as possible every day.

6) What is the strangest thing you’ve been asked to do on set?

It was a photographic job for an article about unhealthy food. They cut a hole in the bottom of a large tin container and I had to push my hand up through the hole to then be immersed in cold baked beans for hours!

7) Do you have a dream brand or client you are yet to shoot for? A Dream Collaboration? And why?

Yes! I would love to model for Ralph Lauren clothes as I love his timeless classic designs. Also, perhaps an organic skincare or cosmetics brand like Neal's Yard, Dr Hauschka or similar. I feel it's important for my age group to be represented more (70's/80's).

8) Outside of modelling, what is your biggest passion?

Aside from spending precious time with my family and friends, I love to paint and now create greetings cards for my loved ones. I also enjoy being outside in Nature and tending to the plants and flowers in the garden.

9) Have you ever been starstruck when meeting a director or celebrity on set?

Yes! I was in total awe of the late great French photographer, Guy Bourdin, who I was lucky enough to work with in Paris, on the cover of French Vogue in 1966. He personally selected me for the job. My legs were the first ever to appear on a Vogue cover. He also remarked that I had lovely elegant hands and feet so I was then also propelled into the world of hands and feet modelling.

10) If you could only take 3 things with you to a desert island, what would they be and why?

My art materials to sketch, draw and journal with. A dog as my companion. A luxury pop up tent containing my lovely soft pillow that I travel everywhere with, as I don't fancy building a makeshift shelter from branches and palm leaves!

11) What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a gymnast. Then I wanted to work with horses in any way possible. I was obsessed with them, and rescued a lovely Welsh pony when I was about 15, who I named 'Tinker'. He stayed with us for many happy years and we won many rosettes at Gymkhanas together. He was a superstar.

12) If you weren’t a model what would you be instead?

I would love to be working with horses, perhaps assisting with riding for the disabled. Also, it would be great to help train guide dogs for the blind.

 To book Debbie please Contact Us - or CLICK HERE to view her profile.