There’s a lot to be said about Australian model Bridget Malcolm. The gorgeous Perth-native recently walked the Victoria’s Secret Runway, is the global face of Polo Ralph Lauren and was named by PETA as Australia’s sexiest vegan celebrity in 2015. She’s super sweet and oozes confidence, talking openly about her classical music talents (yes, she plays the oboe), skincare dilemmas and love of Pilates. Now, the 23-year-old, who counts New York as her second home, returns to her Australian roots, fronting the new active wear campaign for iconic label Bonds. We sat down with Bridget to talk about her exciting new role and all things VS, fitness, health and beauty. Rest assured, this is one model worth keeping on your radar.
Bridget Malcolm on looking and feeling fabulous
Congratulations on your new role with Bonds. What was the best part of shooting the campaign?
Thank you! Landing this campaign was a super cool feeling as I grew up wearing Bonds. I’ve worked with the team before so it was really nice to be onset with familiar faces.
What are your favourite pieces from the new Bonds Sport collection?
I prefer working out in shorts as as I hate getting hot and bothered. So the Bonds shorts are my favourite. They have a nice, flattering cut and come in cool monochromatic prints with bold pops of colour – I wear them to the gym and out for coffee.
How do you stay fit and healthy?
It’s hard for me to put on muscle so I like Pilates, because it keeps me toned.
Apart from Pilates, are there any other workouts you’re currently obsessed with?
Boxing! Sparing with someone is terrifying, but it also gets your heart rate up like you wouldn’t believe. I also love cardio, in particular skipping. I travel with a jump rope wherever I go and I’ve learnt some pretty cool tricks. I’ll jump for 40 minutes.
Wow! 40 minutes on a jump rope is impressive.
Haha thank you! I jump in intervals – on for five minutes, then rest for one minute.
How did you prepare for the Victoria Secret Fashion Show? Did you change your diet and fitness regime?
When I’m preparing for VS or any other big shoot, I’ll combine boxing and Pilates. In terms of diet, it’s pretty clean year round as I’m a vegan and steer clear of alcohol. With this being said, three months before the VS show last year I cut out refined carbohydrates and sugar (including fruit) to keep my blood sugar even and stay lean.
I can imagine it would be extremely nerve-wracking walking down the VS runway. How did you feel?
I was terrified for the casting, because I had auditioned two times before and rejected both times. But when it got to the actual show I was beyond excited and the process [of getting ready and walking the runway] was really fun. There was a few moments when I felt a little overwhelmed as there were so many people backstage wanting photos and videos, but at the end of the day it was an incredible experience and one I hope to repeat this year.
Do you stay in touch with any of the other VS models?
I’ve made a few great friends through Victoria’s Secret, including Shanina [fellow Aussie model] and Vita [Russian model].
Where are your favourite places to eat and workout?
Perth
Eat: Little Lefroy’s is my favourite cafe. It’s right around the corner from where I grew up and my fiancé and I eat breakfast there every morning when we’re home. Just down the road is Manna Wholefoods and Cafe, which serves great vegan food and has a cool, laid-back vibe. Workout: I love going to the Pilates Centre WA in Fremantle. The owner, Trudie, is one of the best reformer teachers I’ve ever had! Hurt Locker is also a great boxing studio.
New York:
Eat: Westville has great vege bowls. Workout: AEROSPACE for boxing.
Talk us through your skincare routine.
Recently, I’ve had a bit of trouble with my skin. I’ve been getting adult breakouts quite regularly and it’s something I’ve never had a problem with before. So I’ve changed to a new skincare line called IS Clinical and it has completely changed my skin tone. Even make-up artists have been commenting on the improvement in my skin.
What’s the best tip you’ve picked up from a makeup artist backstage?
Stick with what suits your skin tone and face shape. For me, I don’t do bright lips because I just don’t feel like myself. Instead, I focus on my eyes and use brown and gold eyeshadow shades.
How do you unwind?
I love playing the oboe and reading.
Quick Questions:
First thing I do in the morning:
Meditate.
Last thing I do at night:
Read my book.
Most people probably don’t know this about me, but:
I play the oboe.
I never leave home without:
Lip balm.
My favourite beach is:
South Beach in Perth.
My favourite emoji is:
Sunglasses smily face.
I never make a smoothie without adding:
Hemp seeds.
My guilty pleasure is:
Deep fried eggplant or sweet potato fries.
My pet peeve is:
People who chew with their mouth open – gross!
