With a clear number 1: Maartje Verhoef

Maartje Verhoef, one of the top models of Micha Models, has been working in modeling for a number of years. She blogged for Amayzine.com about her experiences during her shoots and that’s why Maartje feels a bit like one of us. Her first priority, from herself, her parents, and of course her agent, was to have her Havo diploma in hand. Only then would they fully dive into the fashion world. How Maartje managed it is a mystery to me. It happened that she landed at Schiphol on Monday morning after a four-day shoot, immediately went to school, and still achieved excellent grades.

With a sparkling HAVO diploma in hand, the world was at her feet. This is the first fashion month where Maartje could respond to all requests. When I spoke to her in New York she told me in her modest yet decisive manner that Malaika Firth walked 60 shows during her first fashion week. That seemed appealing to her as well. Or at least 50. If that would work out. Yesterday I spoke to Micha, her agent, at a gathering in le Marly. The count was already at 55 shows. And we’re not done yet. Saint Laurent, Miu Miu, Hermès, Chanel, Valentino, they are all still on the fashion menu and at this pace, Maartje will easily hit 70 shows. Moreover, Micha proudly mentioned, Maartje is at the top of the international list of the model with the most shows walked.

Maartje can join the ranks of Karen Mulder, Lara Stone, Doutzen Kroes, Bette Franke and Saskia de Brauw. We will hear a lot, very much from her. Mark my words.