"There are so many amazing designers in Belgium. We are known for that for a reason."

Could you introduce yourself briefly and share with us the journey you've taken so far?

"My name is Daphne Agten, i am an actress. But before following this path, I explored many other fields. I worked in the advertising industry and spent a long time as a model- not so much in fashion, but as a nude model for artists. That's also how i came into contact with Laetitia Bica. "

"A few years ago, I made the decision to fully commit to the arts, with acting as my main focus. The general public probably knows me from the television show De Slimste Mens, but i actually come from the theater world, which is my first love."

You won an Ensor for your acting performance in the film Holy Rosita. How was it for you to receive such an award?

"It was very special to me, especially because this year the Ensors had revised rules. Only professionals from the industry were allowed to vote. Well-known makeup artists, for example, could vote for other makeup artists, and actors for actors. That's why this award feels extra special. It's great to know that your colleagues appreciate and recognize your work. That really gives a boost."

Despite your busy schedule, you still found time to model for Laetitia Bica. Do you still do a lot of modeling work? And what do you appreciate most about her work?

"My schedule is quite busy, but i try to make time for these kind of artistic projects. Modeling is sometimes seen as a purely executive job, where you simply have to stand still. However, when working with Laetitia and Jennifer, I see posing more as a form of performance. It's about an exchange, a process, it goes far beyond just standing there. Laetitia also chooses models who are eager to play with that concept, which makes it exciting for me."

"She also knows exactly what she wants, which is great. A photographer who is unsure of themselves can pass on that insecurity, which isn't pleasant. Laetitia has a beautiful style, and I find her aesthetic truly stunning."

You often wear designs by Belgian fashion designers. What appaels to you about the Belgian fashion scene?

"Good question! For me, it's a matter of principle. Belgian fashion feels more personal: you can collaborate with the designer and experience the whole process. That process is exactly what i find so interesting. I consciously choose Limburg-based designers, like Tom Van Der Borght, to give them more visibility. limburg has a lot of talent but often receives less attention in the fashion world."

Who are your favorite designers in  Belgian fashion?

"Noémie Gilon, for her playful scarves, and D'heygere, for her humorous jewelry; What attracts me most in fashion is humor. Walter van Beirendonck is always a favorite, as well as the Antwerp Six. I also deeply admire Sander Bos, Jordy Vaesen, and Florentina Leitner. An iconic piece i have always wanted to wear is Dirk Van Saene's bow dress from 2006, but i have never been able to find it!"

When you buy a design from a Belgian designer, do you look for a meaning behind the piece?

"For me, it's enough to think, 'Oh, this is fun.' I wouldn't easily choose an expensive black blouse. What i do love is buying a piece that stands out and has a story behind it. It doesn't have to be a deeply loaded story, but it should have a point of view. That's what i enjoy most."