The debate surrounding Apple Martin's burgeoning modelling career has been reignited with the release of her latest high-profile campaign. The 21-year-old daughter of actress Gwyneth Paltrow and Coldplay frontman Chris Martin takes centre stage once more for London-based fashion house Self-Portrait.
A Reflective Evolution in Upstate New York
For her second campaign with the brand, Martin posed against the rural backdrop of upstate New York. Photographed by Ryan McGinley, she models pieces from the latest collection, showcasing soft laces and airy chiffons. The artistic direction aimed to capture a sense of 'raw, youthful freedom in natural settings', with one striking image featuring the model partially submerged in water, the expansive landscape behind her.
This series reunites Martin with photographer McGinley and stylist Mel Ottenberg, the same creative team behind her debut campaign for the label in September 2023. Founder and Creative Director Han Chong commented on her development, stating: 'This new series of portraits show a more reflective evolution of her personality; there’s a maturity and steadiness to the imagery which aligns with where she is heading.'
Privilege, Backlash and Brand Alignment
Martin's rapid ascent in fashion has not been without controversy. News of her initial ambassadorship with Self-Portrait last autumn, followed by a campaign with Gap alongside her mother, led to inevitable accusations of nepotism on social media. Critics labelled her a 'nepo baby' leveraging her privileged background and industry connections.
Despite the backlash, the brand and its collaborators have been effusive in their praise. Chong highlighted her fit with the label's ethos: 'Apple captures the spirit of a generation of women stepping into the world independently... she represents a new generation marked by self-confidence, curiosity and freedom of expression.' Martin herself described the collaboration as a 'no-brainer', citing the brand's British spirit as a reminder of her childhood in London.
A Growing Fashion Portfolio
Apple Martin's foray into modelling began in earnest in 2023 when she walked for Chanel's Haute Couture show during Paris Fashion Week. Her association with Self-Portrait places her among a roster of high-profile names including:
- Emily Ratajkowski
- Gigi and Bella Hadid
- Naomi Campbell
- Kate Moss
While balancing her studies at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Martin continues to build her profile in the competitive fashion industry. The latest campaign underscores her determination to forge a path in the creative world, even as the discussion about opportunity and access in the arts continues to swirl around her.
