The supermodel, 33, on hating hybrid cars, posing in tight trunks and being an animal lover
What did you want to be when you were a little boy?
I didn’t really know but I didn’t aspire to be in fashion. I’m a guy from Essex who went to a comprehensive school in Billericay. I went to university, then a friend entered me into a modelling competition which I won. I thought it would be fun to do for six months, but I got the bit between my teeth and, like anything I do, I wanted to be the best at it.
And now you’re back as the face of Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Pour Homme fragrance…
The response to the first Light Blue ad campaign in 2006 [which featured David in tight white trunks] was pretty unprecedented so I’m loyal to Dolce & Gabbana. It’s an iconic fragrance and has changed the [male modelling] industry.
How so?
When I started out, [male] models were skinny. Dolce & Gabbana cast me as a more muscular man and the other designers followed suit. At the time people hadn’t seen that type of masculine shot and it caught the public’s imagination.
Were you concerned wearing such tight trunks in public?
I was a little worried – not worried, but aware – that it’s a provocative shot. I showed it to my mum and even she said: ‘This campaign is going to be huge’.
People think all male models are like Ben Stiller’s character in the film Zoolander…
I hope I dispel the views people have of male models. It’s a brilliant film but it probably doesn’t show us in our best light.
Can you do Blue Steel [Stiller’s pouty-lipped pose from the film]?
I was fed up with trying to get away from Zoolander so I’ve started a charity called the Blue Steel Appeal [which supported Comic Relief this year with fashion auctions and events].
What was your career plan B?
I’d have loved to have been a vet but I wasn’t intelligent enough. Animals are very close to my
heart so I also support Battersea Dogs & Cats Home – I was their first ambassador.
What is your biggest bugbear?
Hybrid cars. People smugly drive around in them when they could drive a small diesel car that is
cleaner and more fuel efficient.
What would be your motto?
Always persevere and work hard. And when you make it, don’t believe your own hype.
Who are you dating?
My personal life is my personal life. I don’t talk about it. I keep myself to myself. There are two separate entities: David Gandy the brand and the real me – the guy from Essex who still has all his old friends.
Who do you go to for advice?
For financial matters, my father – he’s a brilliant businessman. For personal issues, I talk to my mum – she’s a brilliant listener.