One Norwich woman has defied the odds of the perilous fashion industry and achieved her dream - modelling for Chanel.

Eastern Daily Press: The Norwich native has recently appeared in the new Chanel perfume advertisement Credit: Henry MarshallThe Norwich native has recently appeared in the new Chanel perfume advertisement Credit: Henry Marshall (Image: Archant)

It is a notoriously ruthless business that is tough to get a break in.

But a local model is savouring the sweet smell of success - after achieving a dream of modelling for Chanel.

India Harl began modelling and acting from age eight, and now the 23-year-old from is now appearing on music videos, films and even high-fashion campaigns.

The former Framingham Earl High School student, who is originally from Stoke Holy Cross, appeared in Chanel's latest perfume advertisement - Bleu De Chanel.

Eastern Daily Press: India Harl began modelling and acting from age eight and has appeared in numerous music clips and fashion campaigns Credit Ryan HowardIndia Harl began modelling and acting from age eight and has appeared in numerous music clips and fashion campaigns Credit Ryan Howard (Image: Archant)

The romantic minute-long video captures French actor Gaspard Ulliel alongside India and was directed by Chanel royalty Steve McQueen.

India moved out of her home to London after completing her A-levels to study at Doreen Bird College of Dance, Music and Theatre.

Despite living away to pursue her dreams, she still calls Norwich home.

She said: 'When I come home to visit my parents, it is a nice and peaceful retreat.'

Eastern Daily Press: India Harl modelling for ASOS credit: Matt FordIndia Harl modelling for ASOS credit: Matt Ford (Image: Archant)

The rising star said she could not believe she was auditioning for the dream role let alone landing the job.

'I got a call from my agent, but it was too high-profile for her to tell me what it was. When I arrived at the audition there was around 100 to 200 people there,

'It was one of my absolute goals to do some modelling with Chanel,' she said.

India also appeared in a music video for Years & Years, which was released last month and filmed in Thailand.

Eastern Daily Press: The Norwich model graduated from Doreen Bird College in south London. Pictured - Sally and Kevin Harl Credit:SuppliedThe Norwich model graduated from Doreen Bird College in south London. Pictured - Sally and Kevin Harl Credit:Supplied (Image: Archant)

'With music videos, every job you do is different but it is that same with TV and film - it is all different,' she said.

The model and actress has now launched a blog to detail her experience in the industry and help young actors and models break into the notoriously-difficult industry.

'Just go for it and not worry about what anybody thinks, just pick up the phone and book in to see an agent - everybody starts somewhere,' she said.

India said she was ready to focus on her acting and land some leading roles in films.

Eastern Daily Press: Ms Harl now runs a blog to give advice to aspiring models trying to break in to the notoriously difficult industry. Credit: Alexandra BlackburnMs Harl now runs a blog to give advice to aspiring models trying to break in to the notoriously difficult industry. Credit: Alexandra Blackburn (Image: Archant)

'There are so many ups and downs, I feel really well-achieved and I am ready to move forward in the industry.'

You can check out India's website at www.indiaharl.co.uk

Eastern Daily Press: India Harl said she hopes to continue in the industry and work on more films Credit: Audry KarlsIndia Harl said she hopes to continue in the industry and work on more films Credit: Audry Karls (Image: Archant)