From small town to big city lights, model Sergio Perdomo’s journey into the world of modeling steadily rises ever higher

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Silver top by Paco Rabanne

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Outfit by Harry Lambert x Zara

Meet Sergio Perdomo, the Colombian sensation making waves in the fashion industry. With a physique that turns heads and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, he has become the face of major brands such as Dsquared2, Hugo Boss and Emporio Armani. As his presence graces the pages of DAMAN, he opens up about his life’s journey…

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Outfit by JW Anderson

DAMAN: Great to have you with us, Sergio. Your rise in the fashion world has been remarkable. Could you share your journey and what inspired you to pursue this career?
Sergio Perdomo: My journey into modeling started as a way to make some money, but it transformed into something serious when I made the move from my small town to the capital of my own country, Colombia. What really inspired me was the people who started to believe in me, seeing not only a random boy from a little town but a real professional.

I LEARNED TO STAY FAR FROM THE INDUSTRY’S TOXICITY, REMEMBER WHERE I COME FROM AND NEVER FORGET MY PARENTS’ LESSONS

DA: Coming from Colombia, how do you think your cultural heritage or experiences have influenced your modeling approach?
SP: Coming from Colombia, where nature is everything, I learned to appreciate life’s simplicity and appreciate the little things around me. My family has always been very religious. I learned a lot from listening not just to their prayers but also from their speeches about gratitude. They have always taught me to value the little things, which has helped me greatly in my job. The fashion world can be tough and not always fair, but I learned to stay far from the industry’s toxicity, remember where I come from and never forget my parents’ lessons.

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Outfit by JW Anderson

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Coat by Paul Smith; purple sweater by Vince; shirt and trousers by Ralph Lauren

DA: Your portfolio boasts prestigious editorials and major campaigns. If you could pick one that meant the most to you, which would it be?
SP: One of the most significant editorials I’ve had the privilege of working on was with Matthew Brookes—an influential figure in the fashion industry—for Man About Town magazine. The location was in Hydra, Greece, with stunning landscapes and an environment that made me feel truly comfortable. This job helped me discover another part of myself, thanks to the photographer who pushed me and gave me the confidence to believe in what I was doing. It was not my first time working with the magazine, but it was definitely the most impactful.

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Outfit by Harry Lambert x Zara

DA: Over the years, the modeling world has seen significant changes. What are your thoughts on the way the industry has evolved so far, particularly in today’s increasingly diverse environment?
SP: The modeling industry has changed a lot as the world is moving quickly. Beauty today isn’t what it was 20 years ago, when the standard type was tall, skinny, with a perfectly proportioned face. Now, there’s more diversity, including different body types and a broader definition of beauty that’s become subjective. I agree with the inclusivity of new kinds of beauty and particular features that distinguish the person.

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Disc top by Paco Rabanne

DA: Modeling can be competitive. How did you navigate the challenges you have had to face?
SP: I find modeling really competitive. There are a lot of people dreaming about the same things, having the same goals. You really have to take every opportunity to stand out. I can describe myself as lucky in this field because I never had to face problems with other models. But the most impactful challenge that I had to face was with myself. I always try to eat healthy, have discipline and consistency in my workouts, and be present at every opportunity. I start every new year with a new me, with new people and cities.

DA: Collaboration is crucial in the modeling industry. What qualities do you believe contribute to a successful collaboration between models, designers and photographers?
SP: It’s simply about being yourself without any pretense. It might sound straightforward, but I’ve found that being genuine has always had a positive impact on my work. It allows people to see my true identity and they can feel the innocence in what I’m doing. It’s all about energies: giving back the same positive energies you receive is crucial.

DA: Are there any photographers or brands you would love to work with?
SP: I would love to work with James Brodribb, Richard Phibbs from Ralph Lauren and Mikael Jansson. Other than that, working for Versace is a big dream of mine.

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Outfit by Rick Owens

Sergio Perdomo by Aldrin Del Carmen for DAMAN, Feb/Mar 2024 — Coat by Paul Smith; purple sweater by Vince; shirt and trousers by Ralph Lauren

DA: What is your favorite moment when working on a shoot?
SP: My favorite moment is when I have to be myself, doing little crazy things for a cool shoot.