Interview: Susan Holmes McKagan’s Daughter Mae Is the Mirror Image of Her Mom

It’s a first—for the Summer Issue of L’Officiel Cyprus, Ellen Von Unwerth not only shot supermodel Susan Holmes McKagan but also her daughter Mae McKagan. Their joint cover marks Mae's official entry into the modeling world that much more paramount, as one of the fashion world's next superstars and into public life. During the photoshoot and interview with L'Officiel, we got to know the energetic McKagan duo even better.

We love your modeling campaigns for Calvin Klein, to Pat McGrath and Helmut Lang. What other designers would you also like to work for?

Mae McKagan: Thank you! I would love to work for Marc Jacobs, Blumarine, Anna Sui, Versace, & Miu Miu. I also hope to expand my work with magazines and shoot more cover editorials in the coming years.

What do you enjoy most about modeling?

Mae McKagan: I most enjoy meeting like-minded creatives, transforming into different characters with the help of hair & makeup direction, and being surprised by the final product.

What sorts of settings and clothes do you prefer to be photographed in and wear?

Mae McKagan: I most enjoy shooting with minimal hair & makeup. I feel like it captures my youth and usually I’m done up super glam, which I also love, but I yearn to photograph my most organic self when I have the opportunity to. As for location, I feel like nature shots can be very hit or miss, but I feel the best shooting on a warm summery day.

Earrings Versace, both in full Sayit Ares looks, Mae’s shoes Jimmy choo, bracelet Eddie Borgo, Susan’s shoes Christian Louboutin

What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage it?

Mae McKagan: My biggest fear is not succeeding career wise, and I manage that by comparing myself to myself only, and reminding myself I’m only 21.

You are a true multi-talent (soon earning your college degree, starting your own clothing line, and modeling with some of the best). What motivates you?

Mae McKagan: That’s so sweet. Growing up with parents who killed it at their respective paths, it sets up very high standards for myself. It makes me strive harder to reach their success, or hopefully even overreach it ---and I’m sure other kids in my position can relate to that. I want to look back on my youth and be proud of how I took career risks, and how I was able to hustle my ass off at a young age.

In five years from now, where do you see yourself and your career?

Mae McKagan: In five years, I see myself owning my own brand, as well as continuously modeling and pursuing other creative avenues on the side.

Mae’s top Paume´ Los Angeles, bra Hakan Akkaya, pantie Dead Lotus Couture, bag Zana Bayne, shoes Saint Laurent,

From modeling in campaign’s for YSL, Revlon to Fendi and Dolce & Gabbana who else do you envision doing more campaigns for?

Susan Holmes McKagan: I am truly blessed! Next, I’m looking forward to my shoot for Agent Provocateur. And think it would be fantastic to do campaigns for Vivienne Westwood, Gucci, to Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs.

What was your most memorable experience working with iconic fashion photographer Ellen Von Unwerth?

Susan Holmes McKagan: Too many to count. We’ve traveled on some amazing trips! From our shoots on a beach in Greece, to the spice markets in Morocco, to creating tropical glamourous moments in Tahiti.

You have a lot of Social Media fans @SusanHolmesMcKagan. How do you feel about and encourage people to follow their dreams?

Susan Holmes McKagan: Thanks… Never give up! And, work hard and be nice to people.

Susan’s jacket Chanel, bra & pantie by Dead Lotus Couture, necklace Wasee jewels, shoes Christian Louboutin

From attending Harvard University, to writing your best-selling book ‘The Velvet Rose.’ What is your time management philosophy?

Susan Holmes McKagan: Dedicate each morning to writing, and communications regarding work (e-mails, texts and social media). Followed by a work out. Lastly, before going to bed, write down the next days ‘to do’ list.

Success is such a subjective concept that everyone likely views differently. How do you define success?

Susan Holmes McKagan: I define success as waking up and embracing the positive! Believe in yourself and anything is capable!

How do you keep in shape?

Susan Holmes McKagan: Swimming, boxing, weight training, hiking, biking my go to favorites.

Credits:

Models: Mae McKagan and Susan Holmes McKagan

PR: Leo Aldermann

Photography: Ellen Von Unwerth

Hair: Johnny Stuntz

Make Up: Lilly Keys

Stylist: Karen Levitt

Nails: Stephanie Adair Mariona