Cover Girls: Janice Low & Aria Ma shines in Chanel for Dec/Jan 2024 issue

How do you feel about gracing the cover of L’OFFICIEL Malaysia’s Dec/Jan 2024 issue?

JANICE: I’m very grateful to the L’OFFICIEL team for putting me on the cover for my favourite holidays, and allowing me to share my story to mark the end of this year and the start of a new one.

ARIA: It’s definitely an honour! To be able to wrap up 2023 and kick-start 2024 with L’OFFICIEL Malaysia, I feel really grateful to the team for giving me this opportunity.

Let’s go back to the start. How did you get started in the modelling industry?

JANICE: Growing up, I had friends who told me that I should be a model. Back then, I didn’t think I could be one, but deep down in my heart, those words were like a seed, growing slowly. In 2015, when I was working as a barista in a cafe, a friend convinced me to join a modelling competition called I Wanna Be A Model Season 6. Fun fact: During my audition, I was asked to do a short catwalk in my highest heels and I ended up tripping not once but three times [laughs].

Anyway, I went and tried my best, and the whole experience exceeded my expectations. I was the champion of the competition and that was how I started my modelling journey.

ARIA: When I was in university, a friend of mine, who’s already a model, was gracious enough to introduce me to the industry.

Both of you are currently based in a foreign country. Can you share your experiences and how different they are from your home country?

JANICE: The biggest difference for me would be having a lot more time for myself when I’m travelling. When I’m not working, I usually spend most of my time alone, and sometimes I do feel quite lonely and homesick. To this day, I still haven’t gotten used to it!

ARIA: Although the market in China is very big, the competition is fierce. There may be dozens or even hundreds of models casting for one job, so it can get quite stressful compared to the pool of models we have here in Malaysia, where it’s still competitive but with a lot less pressure.

What are some challenges working in a different cultural context and how did you adapt?

JANICE: I think the most challenging part is the feeling of being an outsider when we communicate — it might be hard to understand their jokes and conversations. But trying to understand the cultural differences and learning from them are also the fun parts. I enjoy trying to live like a local.

ARIA: There may be language barriers and cultural differences, but to adapt, the most important thing is to keep calm, listen and communicate more, respect the differences, and appreciate the richness of different cultural backgrounds that Malaysia has to offer.

What’s your most challenging shoot so far?

JANICE: It was my first TV commercial shoot for a well-established beauty care company. My role was a contemporary dancer but guess what? I don’t even know basic dance moves, what more having to perform like a pro? [laughs]. I was so stressed that I almost cried while practising. When it came to the actual shoot day, I did all my moves without overthinking, and I was complimented by the team.

ARIA: I recently went to Hong Kong to shoot for a cosmetics commercial, and it was very challenging for me because I needed to maintain healthy and clear skin. I ate very clean and light during those few days and I was also really afraid of staying up late.

What about your most memorable project?

JANICE: The GHD hair campaign in London. I had so much fun. They trusted me fully and gave me the chance to be a part of this when I just started modelling in London and faced a lot of rejections during that time.

ARIA: Every job is unforgettable to me, but if I have to choose one, it’ll be my very first magazine shoot, and like this cover, it’s also with Chanel. Thank you so much, Chanel! [laughs]

How do you handle criticism or feedback from photographers, designers or clients?

JANICE: I appreciate every feedback that comes my way. It can be hurtful at the moment, but I’ll make sure to adjust accordingly to show the best part of myself to create the best art together. But if those criticisms are made just because, I’ll usually just filter it out and keep being the best version of myself.

ARIA: For every shoot that I’m in, I want to do my best. I am very grateful to clients, photographers and designers for their feedback and constructive criticism. What they’ve shared with me has allowed me to better myself and improve on my shortcomings.

How do you prioritise maintaining a healthy body image and self-esteem in an industry that often emphasises physical appearance?

JANICE: This always brings me back to the question: is this what I enjoy doing? Am I getting happiness out of this? The answer to both is a yes, so I’m modelling not just to fit into this industry’s requirements. It is also a path for me to get to know myself better, mentally and physically, and always emphasising the benefit that comes with it.

For example, I have a better and healthier body which brings me the energy I never had before, and also it has boosted my confidence level. Besides, I think maintaining a healthy body, is not just the work that models do, everyone is doing it too. So, I think it’s important to know that I’m doing this for myself, not for others.

ARIA: I focus on having a balanced and healthy diet, getting good rest and exercising regularly. Also, maintaining a positive social circle with healthy friendships helps too.

Do you think it’s important for models to keep up with fashion trends?

JANICE: A definite yes. It’s homework all models should do as we’re always working to present the latest trends.

ARIA: Yes, I think it is very important to showcase your personal style and cultivate your aesthetic by understanding fashion trends. To me, fashion is not only a form of artistic expression but also a display of your personality.

How would you describe your personal style?

JANICE: Minimal and classy.

ARIA: Oriental classic.

What’s your favourite way to unwind and destress?

JANICE: Once I get back home, I usually turn on my favourite playlist and take a slow and warm shower, think about the day I had and thank myself. I enjoy going through my skincare routine and I always add in a good face massage too. I’ll then grab a book or pick a good movie to watch with a cup of warm water or sometimes, wine, to reward myself.

ARIA: Lots of video calls with my family back home in China!

What’s your ultimate career goal?

JANICE: For modelling, I’d like to see where my journey brings me. Let the universe do the work to bring me the experiences that are meant to be for me. Hopefully, make a name internationally.

ARIA: I’ve been really fortunate to be able to realise my dream as a model, whilst fully appreciating the fact that not everyone can do what they like, so I think I’ve been very lucky and loved by the people around me. At the moment, I’m trying to work towards building my self-worth through many other interests that I have outside of fashion and modelling.

What’s next for you?

JANICE: A new destination for me to work as a model, but I’d like to keep it a secret for now. Wish me luck!

ARIA: I hope there will be more interesting projects and campaigns I can potentially work on, but in the meantime, I will continue to improve myself!