An exclusive chat with Laurent Albucher, the French model whose career has spanned Parisian campaigns and all the other fashion capitals of the world, revealing his journey and evolving aspirations

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 001.jpg — Vest by Valette Studio; shorts by Palm Angels; necklace by Christophe Lhote; bag by Sonika Studio

Laurent Albucher is a dynamic force in the world of male modeling, known for his striking presence and versatility. Presenting an amazing combination of French sophistication with international appeal, and with his mesmerizing profile—blue eyes and statuesque frame included—Albucher quickly became a standout the modeling biz.

His journey through the world of fashion has taken him to some of the most prestigious stages and studios. He’s worked with top agencies in Paris, Milan and New York, and has modeled for a number of renowned fashion houses, to say nothing of his appearances in numerous editorials.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 002.jpg — Outfit by MEHDID; hat by Jacquemus; bag by Domestique; goggles and shoes by denzilpatrick

Albucher’s ability to seamlessly adapt to different styles and moods, from high fashion to casual chic, underscores his versatility and appeal. His journey in the fashion world is characterized by a blend of elegance, charisma and professionalism, making him a compelling figure in the industry. His disciplined approach to maintaining a balanced life, coupled with a deep interest in artistic trends, keeps him relevant and inspired in the ever-evolving fashion world.

DAMAN: How did you begin your career in modeling?
Laurent Albucher: I got targeted by the Success Agency through Skyblog, a former French blogging platform.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 003.jpg — Outfit by denzilpatrick; tote bag by Desmalter

DA: Can you share some of your most memorable experiences from working with top brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Calvin Klein and GAP?
LA: One of the most memorable experiences I have had the chance to go through was the anniversary show for Dolce & Gabbana. We were all dressed as astronauts for the opening and I was surrounded by international stars like Naomie Campbell. I was at the beginning of my career, so this world was quite new to me and it was really impressive. I even still remember the song that was played, which was “My Love” by Justin Timberlake, and the crowd watching us. Honestly, before the show, I didn’t feel much pressure when going to fashion events; but this one really took my breath away. I realized how powerful it was and how much people were expecting from this.

Also, something I discovered at this time was the creative work behind fashion. Indeed, I have had the chance to meet major photographers and stylists such as David Sims for Calvin Klein, Mikael Jansson and Karl Templer for GAP. Spending time with them has deeply changed my understanding of this world. They shared their inspirations, their culture, the history of the fashion … and it all inspired me.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 004.jpg — Outfit and bag by denzilpatrick

DA: What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your line of work? And how have you overcome them?
LA: Working in an industry based on your image forces you to always be focused on maintaining your shape, your mood and, in general, keeping your self-reflection at its highest level, no matter what is happening outside of you. In order to overcome this challenge, I have always made sure to keep an intimate space filled with sport, music and family. For me, the only way to have a balanced life is to make sure there is enough space for these three pillars: self-expression, sociability and work.

The only way to have a balanced life is to make sure there is enough space for these three pillars: self-expression, sociability and work

DA: How has your work evolved after the beginning?

LA: It went really fast for me. I began with fashion weeks in Milan in 2006, only two years after taking my first steps into a fashion agency. In 2008, I shot three campaigns with David Sims for Calvin Klein in New York City. Until 2017 and 2018, I spent my life travelling around the world for fashion weeks, campaigns and photoshoots; working for brands like OVS, Carolina Herrera, Dolce &Gabbana, French Connection and so on. After COVID, I started to redirect my career more towards local activities. From that moment, I started working worked more with French brands based in Paris. And I have also started to share my time between my passion for architecture and fashion.

I have developed a strong network in Paris … to be at the right time at the right place with the right persons

DA: How do you stay current with fashion trends and keep yourself relevant?
LA: I have developed a strong network in Paris, coupled with a deep interest in artistic trends. It has enabled me to always be informed on what is happening in the fashion industry and so, to be at the right time at the right place with the right persons.

DA: How do you prepare for a major photoshoot or fashion shows?
LA: I try to rest the day before and I empty my mind as much as possible the few minutes before the event. That way I can be focused and give the best I can.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 005.jpg — Denim jacket by Hollywood Forever Records; denim shirt by Palm Angels; denim pants by Études

DA: Can you tell us about the figures that have been really influential in your career?
LA: Without hesitation I would say my bookers: Catherine Dieudonné from Success Paris when I started, Fred Benfaid from New Madison Paris, the Why Not Models and I Love Models Management in Milan, Gaspard Lukali from Request Model Management in New York City. Thanks to them, I was well advised, and they enabled me to meet the most aspirational actors of the fashion industry, including photographers, artistic directors, casting directors and so on.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 006.jpg — Blazer by KidSuper; shirt by Palm Angels

DA: What hobbies or interests do you have outside of modeling?
LA: I practice a lot of sports like jujitsu and I work in architecture design.

DA: Are there any particular brands or designers you aspire to work with in the future?
LA: I would love to work with Jérémie Egry, Aurélien Arbet and José Lamali from Études Studio, Barnabe Hardy for Isabel Marant and Anthony Vaccarello for YSL.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 007.jpg — T-shirt by Lanvin

DA: What’s one thing you’re looking forward to in the near future?
LA: I look forward to travel around the world again, but not for anything related to fashion.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 008.jpg — Suit by KidSuper; shirt by Études x Julian Farade; necklace by Louis Vuitton; bag by Desmalter

DA: If you hadn’t become a model, what do you think would you be doing right now?
LA: I would be focused on developing my passion in architecture.

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 009.jpg — Outfit by Valette Studio; beaded necklace by Christophe Lhote; charm necklace by Lucas Bauer; tote bag by 10.03.53; shoes by denzilpatrick

Laurent Albucher by Mac Paris for DAMAN August/September 2024 010.jpg — Suit by KidSuper; shirt by Études x Julian Farade; necklace by Louis Vuitton; bag by Desmalter

Photography Mac Paris
Styling Kimberly Yvette Goodnight & Phillip Palmer
Model Laurent Albucher/New Madison Models Paris
Location Paris, France

Tête-à-tête with French model Laurent Albucher

KIMBERLY YVETTE GOODNIGHT,

Laurent Albucher,

Mac Paris,

New Madison Models Paris,

Phillip Palmer