Urbanity Chic , Spotlight Interview

Eva Fydrych is a successful commercial model who is originally from Poland but now currently lives and works in Singapore. In addition to modeling, Eva also is the founder of the incredible fashion magazine http://www.fashionstudiomagazine.com/, which is dedicated to the most interesting and intriguing fashion news. When Eva agreed to complete a full in-depth feature interview we were thrilled so we could share her interests, experiences and portfolio of work with you. Read on to discover, amongst other things, how Eva became interested in fashion, how she prepares for a fashion shoot or show and what she’s hoping to achieve over the next 12 months!

Eva Fydrych by Gabrio Linari -- Venice

Eva Fydrych by Jennifer Lam -- Singapore

Q: How did you get into fashion?

I have been interested in fashion as long as I can remember. After working for a couple of years in fashion retail (for companies such as French clothing chain Camaieu and an Italian fashion designer Pamela), I started modelling in London, UK. It was a great learning experience that gave me a different insight into the world of fashion.

During my stay in Toronto, Canada last year, I got involved in fashion photography and also started my own online magazine (www.fashionstudiomagazine.com). I still write for other magazines, such as London-based Fashions Finest and The Fashion Globe from New York.

All these fields -- modelling, photography, retail, fashion writing -- are closely connected with each other and the experience I’ve gained in different countries throughout the years, has helped a lot. It gives you a broader perspective and a better understanding what fashion is all about.

Q: How have the last 12 months been for you?

I spent last year in Toronto, but still did quite a fair bit of travelling: Barbados, Mexico, Morocco, Spain… I also finished an intensive ‘Acting For Film’ course at New York Film Academy.

It was a good year; full of exciting events, new experiences and interesting business opportunities. I am very happy with the positive response that Fashion Studio Magazine is getting and that I am able to do what I truly enjoy.

Q. What inspired you to start the Fashion Studio Magazine?

I started the magazine in January 2011 during my stay in New York. Whilst studying acting at NYFA, we were encouraged to use our creative side a lot, not to be afraid to experiment and show the world who we really are. Somehow that experience made me reconsider what I want to do in life and which direction I want to go with my career.

Q: Where do you get your inspiration?

I get my inspiration from many different sources: travelling, conversations with people that I meet, movies, fashion magazines, city life, street scenes, modern art, to name a few. Sometimes it’s just a sudden idea that pops out in your head out of nowhere…

Eva Fydrych by Warren Linton -- Barbados

Eva Fydrych -- Tropic Beauty -- Barbados

Q: Which modern day fashion designers or fashion icons do you look up to?

I always admire people who don’t follow the crowd, but choose their own path instead. Strong personalities who believe in their vision, have the courage to be different and live the way they want. Individuals who mastered their field and managed to combine the artistic side of the industry with an effective business approach: Jean Paul Gaultier, Vivienne Westwood, Kate Moss, Tyra Banks, Sarah Jessica Parker, Gisele Bündchen, and Anna Wintour.

Q: How did you get into fashion modeling?

I started modelling in 2007. I was living in London at that time and one day, whilst walking at Southbank, I was approached by a scout who invited me for a casting and for a test shoot. Shortly afterwards, I signed a contract with a modelling agency and that is how everything started. It has been a great adventure so far.

Q: Do you prefer to shoot on location or in the studio?

I prefer shooting on location as I find it more interesting than the studio. It gives you more opportunities when it comes to posing and you can use different props and backgrounds. It is definitely harder to run out of ideas.

Eva Fydrych by Mark Pascasio -- Singapore

Eva Fydrych by Jay C. Photography -- Singapore

Q: How do you prepare for a fashion shoot or show?

I always go to bed early and sleep eight hours the day before.
I eat healthy and drink a lot of water.
I follow an exercise regimen and keep my skin moisturized.
I still practice my posing in front of the mirror and look for inspiration in fashion magazines. There is always something you can improve and you should never stop learning.
If I have time, I like to visit a spa or get a massage, so I fell relaxed and rejuvenated. These types of treatments are much more popular and affordable in Asia then in Europe or North America.

Q: Do you have a favourite photograph?

Please have a look at the INSPIRATION section in the Fashion Studio Magazine. That’s the place where I put my favourite fashion editorials:

http://www.fashionstudiomagazine.com/p/inspiration.html

As for the portraits, it would be probably Kate Moss photographed by Mario Testino.

Q: Who is your favourite photographer?

Mario Testino, Steven Meisel, Greg Kadel, Patrick Demarchelier.

Eva Fydrych by Tito Trelles -- New York

Eva Fydrych -- eZen Modelz -- Singapore

Q: Is there anybody you would like to work with?

All of the photographers mentioned above.

Q: What does fashion mean to you?

Fashion for me is much more than just the clothes we are wearing. It is an attitude, the way we see the world, the atmosphere that surrounds as. As Coco Chanel said “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

Fashion is a form of art, a lifestyle, a tool to express who we are, and a way of communicating with people. It serves so many different purposes that it is actually really difficult to define. I guess everyone has their own definition of what fashion really is and what it means to them.

In recent years, fashion has become a global phenomenon, and it is present in almost every aspect of our lives. It has become such an important part of our culture. You can find it everywhere from movie theatres to museums. Fashion designers became celebrities and shopping is a new way of spending free time.

Fashion is creative and fascinating, it evokes emotions, makes everything more colourful and adds flavour to our everyday life. It is a from of entertainment and also a very lucrative business.

Q: What situations creatively stimulate you?

Meeting new people, travelling, and discovering new places. But also all kinds of challenging situations when not everything goes as planned and you are forced to look for alternative solutions, thinking outside the box. Challenges always motivate me and I believe that there is always an opportunity in the middle of difficulties.

Eva Fydrych by Vijay Jethwa -- London

Eva Fydrych by Jay Nodalo -- Singapore

Q: How would you define your personal style?

I like buying clothes in small local boutiques when I travel. I have some great pieces from Cebu (Philippines), Shanghai, Bergamo (Italy), New York, and Barbados. I always search for something different and unique as my fashion philosophy is “be yourself and never imitate anyone else”. I love discovering local designers and small shops that may be a big thing in the future. I am a huge fan of handmade jewellery and handbags in most unusual shapes and colours.

I think fashion should be fun and cannot be treated too seriously. I would say my style is feminine, but at the same time versatile and full of contradictions. One day I may wear a simple minimalist dress with no accessories, and the other – something bright, eclectic and eye-catching. There are however some things that dominate my wardrobe: I like colours and prints, asymmetric forms, feminine dresses, high heels, bold statement jewellery, and fur jackets. I like fresh, innovative ideas and modern style as opposed to something more vintage.

For formal events, I believe in classic elegance and in a rule that “less is more”. One of the main principles that I follow says: clothes should be always suitable for the occasion.

Q: Where are you based?

I am currently based in Singapore.

Q: What’s it like being where you’re from?

My hometown, Kraków, is a beautiful old city with a distinct architecture and unique atmosphere. It is a cultural capital of Poland and a very friendly city where many people feel at home. I guess growing up in there influenced my taste, developed a strong interest in art and a curiosity about the world.

Eva Fydrych by Jay Nodalo -- Singapore

Eva Fydrych -- Tuck Loong -- Singapore

Q: What’s been the highlight of your career to date?

Working with a film director Michael Gleissner in Cebu, Philippines.
An editorial for Scene Magazine.
An ad campaign for I Nuovi cosmetics shot in Singapore.
Taking part in a World Supermodel Pageant in Australia.
Completing an acting course at New York Film Academy.

Q: What are you hoping to achieve over the next 12 months?

I would like to create a print version of Fashion Studio Magazine and expand my photography portfolio. On a personal level, I would like to improve my dancing skills and continue learning Spanish.

Q: What do you do to relax?

I go to a gym to workout or for a dancing class, meet with friends, watch a movie or read an interesting book, have dinner in a cosy restaurant – I love eating out and trying different cuisines. Sometimes I go to a spa for a long relaxing massage. However, a day on the beach with a good company, reggae music and some great cocktails, would be probably my first choice. I spent my last holiday in Barbados and I can’t think of a more relaxing and laid back place. You can get away from it all, but still have lots of fun.

Q: Where would your favourite holiday (vacation) be and why?

Somewhere I haven’t been before; as I always like to explore new places. There are a couple of countries on my list: Papua New Guinea, Zanzibar, Brazil, Chile, West Africa.

My favourite holiday would be full of action and adventure, spontaneous, and without a fixed plan. That’s my favourite way of travelling.

Eva Fydrych by Geoffrey Pereira -- Singapore

Eva Fydrych by Black Frog Studio -- Shanghai

Q: What songs are on your iPod at the moment?

It’s a mix of recent R’n’B, reggae, African music, jazz, house, salsa, merengue, and samba. When it comes to music, I definitely like variety.

Q: Do you have interesting hobbies?

Fashion, photography, travelling, cinema, dancing. I’m also interested in modern art.

Q: If you could give a little piece of advice for people wanting to work in the fashion industry what would it be?

Make sure you know what you want.
Be persistent.
Set your goals and divide them into small steps.
Be polite to people. Success won’t make you happy if you made a lot of enemies along the way.
Don’t give up.
Work on expanding your fashion knowledge, be always familiar with the latest trends and happenings in the fashion industry.
Attend networking events. Introduce yourself to people. Make sure they know who you are and what you want to achieve.
If something doesn’t work, try a different approach.

Eva Fydrych by Nigel Banks -- Toronto

Eva Fydrych by Fayezha Dans -- Singapore

Q: What motivates you to do what you do?

I love what I do. It gives me satisfaction and makes me complete. It took me a while to figure out what I really want from life, but I finally managed to do it. In the words of an ancient Chinese philosopher, Confucius: “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to let our readers know about?

We are currently looking for new writers for the Fashion Studio Magazine. If you are passionate about fashion, have good industry knowledge and exceptional writing skills, please get in touch!

Editor’s Note: Eva’s successful modeling career has seen her travel all over the world working with some of the most talented photographers. Further, Eva’s love, flair and understanding of fashion, partnered with creative flair will surely ensure that Eva’s fashion ventures will enjoy considerable success in the future too. One of Urbanity Chic’s ‘One’s to Watch’ for 2012 and beyond.