.digital
SOFT REBELLION
*with Edu Roman
written + interview CHIDOZIE OBASI
Hot on the heels of his first TV show and a sweeping modeling career under his belt, the model and entrepreneur peels back the curtain on life, path and future hopes—all while becoming the embodiment of what makes a public figure beloved: a rare mix of kindness, grace and warmth.
In simple words, Edu is a breath of fresh air in an industry that, at times, feels bone-dry. So dive into the conversation below, as he speaks with LE MILE’s Fashion Director. You’re welcome.
Edu Roman wears a coat by ISABEL MARANT, a polo shirt by CALVIN KLEIN, a shirt by ZEGNA, pants by DOLCE&GABBANA, a tie from the ARCHIVE, and shoes by FABI
Edu Roman wears a total look by CELINE
Chidozie Obasi
First things first: could you introduce yourself to us?
Edu Roman
I’m the father of a beautiful daughter and the husband of a beautiful woman. I see myself as someone who’s always evolving and trying to adapt to every situation life puts in front of me — always with a smile on my face.
How has the past year been for you?
It’s been hectic! My baby was just a newborn when the year started, and I was living in Tenerife — a beautiful place in the Canary Islands — mixing parenting with my professional work. It’s been an awesome year, and it’s not over yet…There's still so much to do and enjoy.
Taking a trip down memory lane: where did you grow up?
I grew up in a beautiful place called Cambrils, a small town by the Mediterranean Sea. It’s tiny, but it always gives me this magical feeling. Still, I’ve always been ambitious, and I knew the world had great things waiting for me. Nothing grows in your comfort zone, but it’s always nice to have one, just in case you need to go back.
You have a twin brother! Did you have a happy upbringing? And do you have any other siblings?
Yes! Having a twin brother has always been the best. Growing up with Jorge has been amazing: he’s not just my best friend; I like to say he’s my right arm. Only twins will understand this, because it’s a different kind of bond. He’s always there to give me the other side of the story, to keep me grounded, and to make sure I don’t become someone I don’t want to be. We keep each other on the right path and, as you can imagine, we have a lot of fun together. I also have two younger sisters whom I love with all my heart, and we try to be a great example for them..
Did you always know that you wanted to work in the creative industry, or did that come later?
Actually, I studied Economics! [Laughs]. But creativity has always been part of my life. I have an entrepreneurial mind that’s always looking for ways to add value. For me, creativity is everywhere; you just have to connect the dots and stay curious. I freaking love learning about anything, anytime.
When did you realize that you wanted to pursue this path as your main career?
As always, life had some surprises for me. I was discovered on the street and started modeling. I’ve always liked adapting to new situations, and modeling is all about that: new teams, different people, brands, creative ideas; and you’re the one who has to deliver. And I’ve always loved to deliver.
In a world shaped by global crises and social change, the role of a model, talent, or creator is often seen as ‘trivial’. What does influence mean to you today?
Be the kind of person you’d love to have close to you. Nowadays, “influencing” is often misunderstood — people think it’s just about posting content and having followers. But for me, influence is about being the person others enjoy spending time with. That’s what creates a kind of virtuous circle that makes the world a better place. Be as happy as you can, and make the people around you feel warm and safe — that, to me, is a real influence.
Edu Roman wears a coat by TOM FORD, a shirt by RANDOM IDENTITIES by STEFANO PILATI, a sweater by MICHAEL KORS, a blazer by ZEGNA, blue pants by CELINE, and beige pants by FERRAGAMO
Could you talk me through your biggest career feats?
Honestly, my biggest feat is still being alive in this industry! I built an international modeling career from scratch: I’ve worked with some of the best brands and photographers in the world. I’m really proud of that, but I never take anything for granted. Staying humble and working hard is key. Thanks to this industry, I’ve met some of the most amazing people — including my wife — and my business partners. I’m the co-founder of a marketing and AI agency called IMMORAL, which has a division dedicated to growing fashion businesses. Everything I know comes from modeling and this outrageous curiosity that defines me..
Have you ever had moments of self-doubt or personal struggle?
Of course. We all have self-doubt, because we’re human. We’re not meant to handle this crazy amount of attention; we’re meant to hunt and grow with our people. But as you grow up, you realize there’s always an excuse — either “you’re not the one they’re looking for,” or “you’re perfect for the job.” As models, and as humans, we hear “no” ten times more often than “yes.” The faster you learn not to be defeated by that, the less you’ll suffer. I always tell young models and people in the industry: keep going, keep your head up. You’re loved by the ones you love, and that will never change.
Being in the public eye isn’t easy. How do you take care of your mental health?
I went to therapy a lot as a kid and a teenager. I’ve always liked to express myself, and I’m not afraid to talk openly about my problems. I believe that when you can say out loud what’s happening to you, you’re forcing yourself to truly understand your emotions — and that’s already halfway to solving the problem. And of course, it’s so important to have people who love you and will always take the time to listen, even if they don’t fully understand what you’re going through.
Tell us more about your company! How did it start, and how is it going?
When I finished my Economics degree, I started a company with my brother and some partners. It was basically a directory of marketing agencies, web developers, and design studios. We had a great database, but then the government changed the data management laws, and we lost about 80% of our clients. So we decided to sell the database, and I focused on my modeling career. A few years later, my current partner, Marco, built a new business helping brands grow online. We’ve always had a great friendship and mutual respect, and one day he reached out to me and my brother with an idea: to create a new division called IMMORAL FASHION. We combined our experience in fashion and our network with his expertise in scaling e-commerce. Now we’re focusing on AI, because it’s changing everything, and we want to stay at the forefront of new technologies. It’s been a fantastic journey — and I hope it lasts a long time and keeps bringing us joy.
Tell us about the TV show you’re working on! What’s it about, and how do you feel about it?
I’ve never done TV before, but as I always say, when opportunity knocks, you have to adapt and step out of your comfort zone. I’m still filming, and I have a non-disclosure agreement, but I can tell you a bit: it’s a competition featuring 12 Spanish celebrities, where we compete to become the Master of Sewing. We design, choose fabrics, and craft our own pieces. It’s basically the Spanish version of The Great British Sewing Bee. It’s been intense, but super fun. It will air on Spanish public television this coming January.
What are your hopes for the future?
I just want to become the man I’ve always wanted to be — and I think I’m on my way. I want to have fun, build genuine relationships, love the people around me, and spread love everywhere I go.
Edu Roman wears a dress and black skirt by MOSCHINO, a plissé skirt by MEIMEIJ, socks by VALENTINO, shoes by JIMMY CHOO, and hats by VALENTINO and STETSON
Edu Roman wears a shirt by PAUL SMITH, a vest by EXTREME CASHMERE, a blazer by DOLCE&GABBANA, a jacket by TOD’S, pants by ACT N1, and a skirt by MEIMEIJ
Edu Roman wears a red sweater by CELINE, a white sweater by TOM FORD, pants by MORDECAI, and a tie by PAUL SMITH
Edu Roman wears a sweater by FENDI, a shirt by CELINE, a tank top by DSQUARED2, pants by QUARTO ATTO, and socks and a tie by PAUL SMITH
Edu Roman wears pants by PRADA
credits
all Images (c) LE MILE / Cosimo Buccolieri
photography COSIMO BUCCOLIERI
fashion direction + styling CHIDOZIE OBASI
head of production JESSICA LOVATO
fashion coordination ALBERTO MICHISANTI + EDWARD PUSCA
make up DIANA DJURDJEVSKI via STUDIO REPOSSI
hair DAVIDE NUCARA
film SARA FINEZZO
model EDU ROMAN via NEXT
photo assistant ANTONIO CROTTI
production assistant LORIS VOTTERO
fashion assistance PASQUALE CORLETO + JORDAN MAX BAGLIONI + ALESSANDRO GIANESIN + BRUNA TOGNINI + AMELIA ZACCAGNI + CHARISSE ORDINARIA + GIOELE ROSANO + THEA OLOFSSON ROWCLIFFE