Bonnie Chen: More than a model

Has the standard of beauty changed over the years? 

When I began modelling, many Chinese thought models were ugly. At that time, the "look" for Chinese models was the so-called "Oriental look" – very plain, with a flat-looking face. Now we have more diversity – flat and not flat, more defined like Western models, with double eyelids and big eyes that many people like now. 

On beauty, I have two observations: the natural look, as if make-up-less, is in. And compared to before, the difficulty level of applying make-up has been reduced so much, thanks to all the bloggers and their tutorials online.

One industry insider says that women earn 75% more than men in the modelling industry, but that men have longer careers. Is that true?

Generally, it's true overseas. Female models have more work opportunities and they are paid more. In terms of longevity, I don't think the term applies any longer. Models can do a lot of things now – even if male models have longer careers, they need to switch, too.

Have you thought about a career switch, perhaps after a certain age? 

I'm always on different projects – reality shows, acting and my own charity. As for acting, I'm still learning, I think it requires a huge amount of time devotion, unlike modelling, which is on a short-term basis. So far, "model" is still my label. If one day I'm 80 and the market still wants me, I'm definitely happy to model as long as I can.

Why did you choose to major in psychology in university? 

I wasn't happy when I was a child. I was trained in rhythmic gymnastics – I was lucky enough to receive honours and awards because of that – while at the same time I had to balance my schoolwork. My parents were very strict and put a high value on my education. However, I found myself alienated from both sides; I was very confused about myself then, so I said I wanted to study psychology when I attended university. As a sensitive person, psychology helps me think more rationally and logically.