Sauce Shoots: Loïs Breukel by Katie Begbie

Photography: Katie Begbie
Styling & Interview: Levi Tan
Talent: Loïs Breukel, 62 Management

Loïs is a Dutch-Kiwi model based in Sydney. Exploring her new life in Sydney, Loïs shares her roots, modelling, and what is new in the city for her.

Tell us about your heritage, your name, and where you call home.

Hi! I’m Loïs Breukel, a Dutch-Kiwi model based in Sydney. I’m originally from Amsterdam, but my family moved from the Netherlands to Aotearoa when I was relatively young. Although I still feel a strong connection to my Dutch roots, I feel very lucky to have had a wonderful childhood in Whakatū-Nelson, and I now call that home.

Loïs wears a dress by Ella Rhodes and jewellery by Anoushka Van Rijn.

What got you into modelling? Tell us about your earliest memories of the industry.

I’ve always found the fashion industry captivating. Being a tall (thanks to those Dutch genes!) person, people often asked if I’d ever given modelling a thought. I decided to give it a shot, and here we are! I fondly remember my first-ever shoot, which was for the Aotearoa-based label, Wixii. I flew up with my mum for it, and it was such a magical day.

Loïs wears stylist’s vintage collection.

What inspires you? What gets you out of bed in the morning?

I’m always inspired by the people and the energy around me. Whether it’s friends, creatives (like Levi and Katie), or other models, I’m drawn to people and find that they inspire me most. A good matcha does a pretty great job of getting me out of bed, too!

What are your favourite things about living in Sydney?

As a "water baby," it’s been such a treat living right by the ocean. Many of my days are spent relishing the salty water and soaking up the Sydney sun. There is an amazing food —it seems there’s always something on and plenty of hidden gems to discover.

Loïs wears layered skirts by Jojo Ross and jewellery by Anoushka Van Rijn.

What have you been up to since moving to Australia?

Australia boasts such a lively fashion scene; it’s been amazing to meet and work with such talented people. Everyone is so lovely here! Although I’m still relatively new to the scene, I feel lucky to be in an environment that fosters so much growth and opportunity. Travelling to Melbourne for the St. Agni Resort show was definitely a highlight.

What are you reading and listening to at the moment?

I’m reading The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt—it’s incredible so far! Fashion Neurosis by Bella Freud is also an insightful and fun listen, not to mention very relaxing. As for music, Orbital and Moby have been on repeat lately.

What is on your fashion wishlist?

The perfect pair of vintage sunglasses, Isabel Marant Bekketts, and a trusty pair of Levi’s Engineered jeans.

Taking care of oneself is vital. Working in the fashion industry, how do you stay grounded and balanced?

I feel most grounded when I immerse myself in nature, and living by the ocean makes a massive difference for me. There is nothing that a swim in a sea can’t fix.

Loïs wears stylist’s vintage collection with jewellery by Anoushka Van Rijn.

Loïs wears the James Dress in Shimmer Crinkle Knit by Jojo Ross with the Oosterom Shell Belt.