photography. Ellen von Unwerth
fashion. Mike Adler
issue 4 – in motion
Congratulations on your book; it is a breathtaking collection of amazing images. How was it for you to go through all your archives and revisit all those moments from your incredible career? What was the process like creating such a personal and creative project?
I have been close friends with Stewart Shining, and he was one of the first photographers I worked with when I moved to New York City. As I was nearing 20 years of a career in modeling, we came up with an idea to do a book together that would showcase all of the amazing work we have done. It was a magical trip down memory lane as we have done so much together. Stewart has photographed all of the important moments in my personal life in addition to our work together, so when the time came to pick images for the book, it was so much fun but also one of the hardest things to do as there was so much to choose from. We also did some additional shoots, in the end, to tie everything together, and the result is truly what both of us envisioned.
Throughout your career, you have collaborated with numerous fashion designers and brands. Is there a particular collaboration that stands out to you as the most rewarding or memorable? What made it so special?
I truly enjoyed every job I did, but what I cherish a lot is my work with Omega. We started working together at the Olympics in Rio, but what I will always remember is the first campaign that we shot in Ibiza. They are truly an amazing and caring company, and I have been so blessed to get to know them more.
Many people see supermodels as glamorous figures, but they often overlook the hard work and dedication that goes into maintaining a successful career. What are some misconceptions you would like to clarify about the modeling industry?
Like any other job, modeling has its challenges, and even though it is fun, countless hours go into producing an editorial or a campaign. What is the hardest part for me is the unpredictability of the job and how last-minute things can be, as that subtracts from my family time. Even though I am fortunate enough not to have to take every job now, there were times in my career when I had to leave my kids for extended periods of time with only a day or two of notice. That was definitely very hard, but I was fortunate to have a great support system around me that could help.
With the rise of social media and the digital age, the fashion industry has undergone significant changes. How have these advancements affected the modeling industry, and how have you adapted to this new landscape?
I feel that in addition to our job as models, we must have a social media presence, as that is now a part of the job. I try to stay current and post on all my social media platforms, but it can get overwhelming as it is so much, and I am one of those people that wants to enjoy life and not spend all the time on the phone. What I love about the social media aspect is that it has helped the fashion industry be more open and diverse. I love that the industry is becoming more inclusive, and even though there is much more work to be done, it is a step in a good direction.
Beyond the glamorous aspects of your life, how do you find balance and prioritize self-care in a fast-paced industry? What are some practices or routines that help you stay grounded and focused?
For me, self-care has been an important part of my life. I try to take a moment for myself each day, even if it is ten to fifteen minutes to meditate or breathe. We often get preoccupied with life, so it is important to dedicate time to ourselves. I love to meditate, do yoga or Pilates, and spend time outdoors and with my loved ones. Even when I am traveling, I always bring my crystals with me to help with my meditation practice.
How has becoming a mother changed your perspective on life and career? How do you instill important values and principles in your children while navigating the world of fame and celebrity? How do you handle the pressures of parenting in the public eye, and how do you protect your children’s privacy?
My children have always been my number one priority. It has been and still is a very delicate balance of making sure that I have enough time to spend with them. I think since they were small, I have tried to teach them the right values and the importance of being kind and caring people. I do like to share special moments with my kids on social media, but otherwise, I try to keep them out of the public eye unless they decide they want to follow in my footsteps and work in entertainment. I feel this is the job I chose, and they should have the opportunity to choose what they are passionate about when they are ready.
photographer. Ellen Von Unwerth
talent. Alessandra Ambrosio
fashion. Mike Adler @ Monday Artists
make up. Vincent Oquendo
hair. Eduardo Bravo
nails. Adrienne Soter
production. Filipine @ Hilight Production
post-production manager. David Djian
executive production. LuvnGrace Productions
fashion assistant. Daria Conan
location. Balustrades made by Joy de Rohan Chabot gilded with gold leaves by Katinka. Swedish, Russian & French furnitures. Katinka is a decorator, trompe-l’œil painter,
gilder and brand-owner of fantasy Jewelry named KATINKA.
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