Sanne Vloet
What is it about Dutch genetics and how do we get in on it? In the meantime between now and our next reincarnation, we spoke to Sanne Vloet, Dutch runway model and wellness entrepreneur who started from the bottom and now is definitely here. Sanne has walked the runway for all the big names like Chanel, Tom Ford, and Balmain and while she’s still committed to modeling, Sanne is venturing into the world of entrepreneurship, which is the smartest thing you can do with the large following she’s amassed on Instagram by keeping it real with her audience.
Sanne will be launching her new matcha brand Nekohama this spring and currently purveys a line of pure, ethically-sourced, CBD-infused face oils called Izé. We spoke to Sanne about what she really eats before shoots, learning to get out of her own way, and of course—her skincare routine.
How are you doing? How have you been spending most of your time lately?
I am doing well! It was definitely a really big transition for me at the beginning. I used to spend every other day on an airplane or hotel far away from home, so it felt good to spend more time at home and take everything at a slower pace. I did notice my routines became very important and that I had to create them to keep myself sane. By making a matcha every morning, I started a healthy routine and it calmed my mind and body! The step-by-step process of making matcha is very meditative for me.
What was it like growing up in the Netherlands? What are some of the biggest cultural differences between the U.S. and where you grew up?
So I was actually born in Switzerland, grew up in Zimbabwe and moved to the Netherlands when I was five. I was raised in the countryside and enjoyed every part of it: being outside, surrounded by nature, and biking everywhere. The biggest cultural difference I notice here between here and the Netherlands is that the Dutch are more easy going and take holidays very seriously. We Europeans find quality of life to be very important.
You've modeled for Chanel, Tom Ford and the like. Which one was the biggest deal for you? Any funny or stories to share from backstage?
Chanel shows have always been a favorite. The settings are so extraordinary and special. I think my craziest backstage moment was when I arrived in Paris from another show 10 minutes before the show started. They had to wash my hair in a bucket to get it ready. The show already began when I started changing and then they realized they made a mistake in the alterations which had been done at 4 am that day. I ended up waiting in line in my underwear for my dress to be altered. Unfortunately the dress and I didn’t make it on the runway that season.
Before runway shows, are you just eating veggies and fish and cutting out carbs? Or what's the diet actually like to prepare for runway/shoots?
I try to eat very healthy during the fashion months otherwise I can't keep up. Modeling is a top sport and having healthy nutrition is a huge part of this. You have to always look good even between all the travel and late evenings. It’s our job. Especially before a shoot or runway show, I make sure I have a healthy and clean meal with a balance of protein, veggies and brown rice.
What are your 5 essential beauty products?
Izé face oils! I launched the brand this year and these vegan clean face oils have changed my skin. Simplicity is everything to healthy skin.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum to hydrate my skin.
Sonya Dakar Rose Gold Face Mask. It’s a nice clay mask that doesn’t dry out your skin, but manages to get rid of all impurities.
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler. I don’t like to wear mascara all the time so a good eyelash curler is everything!
Laneige Lip Mask. This is literally the best lip balm ever. It doesn’t dry out your lips and I use it as a balm as well.
What is one insecurity you've had to overcome to be successful:
To care less about what other people think of me. Being in the spotlight all the time, you get judged often. In the past, this definitely held me back from really showing my personality, but now I’m able to be the real me because the only opinion that matters is my own.
You are newly in the matcha making biz. What makes it different than others?
Throughout quarantine I found myself feeling very unmotivated, low on energy, and lacking inspiration. By making matcha every morning I started to develop healthier routines, it helped calm my mind, and gave me the energy to go after my day. My co-founders and I created Nekohama to help people live healthier lives and create better habits. The first place we wanted to start is with energy because my co-founders and I have all had the same negative experience with coffee. When we discovered a matcha that is smooth with none of the bitter taste that so many people have experienced, we had to share it with the world.
Where have you been based throughout the pandemic? Have you found any silver linings?
Right before the pandemic I moved from New York to LA. I got a place on the west side and spent most of my time here. I really enjoyed being in warmer weather and being able to go out in nature. The only downside has been the time difference with my family but we have made it work!
Something you love about yourself:
I’m not scared of any challenge or experience. I am up for anything spontaneous.
Since you’ve traveled all over the world, do you have any places to recommend people check out when they can travel again?
The most magical place I have traveled to is Japan. I always feel so inspired and calm when I leave there. The variety of nature, the culture and the fun city life is incredible!
What's your exercise routine?
I try to work out between 30-75 minutes, five days week. I do a combination of weight training to build muscle and Pilates to lengthen and tone. I also enjoy walking and hiking outside when I can. One of my new year's resolutions is to learn how to surf!
Anything cool you're working on that you want to share?
Yes! I completed my Pilates Teacher training during quarantine, so I am working on creating an online platform where people can come together and join in the wellness movement as a community.
In a past-life, you were probably a:
A cat. I love laying in the sun and cuddling with people.
Your vices:
I am extremely disorganized—I lose everything! From passports, to jewelry and sometimes even my phone.