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Anastasia Bondarenko: A Stride of Elegance and Artistry in the World of Fashion

Introducing Anastasia Bondarenko, a Ukrainian model born August 5th 1989 whose grace and elegance have left an indelible mark in the fashion industry. Based in the vibrant realm of New York City, Anastasia embarked on her modeling odyssey at the tender age of 16, a journey that would soon propel her to international acclaim.

Her tale of fashion began to unfold as she ventured to Milan and Paris following her high school graduation, sowing the seeds of an extraordinary career. Anastasia’s modeling portfolio is a testament to her undeniable talent and allure, gracing an array of campaigns for prestigious brands such as 7 for All Mankind, Hudson Jeans, and Tommy Hilfiger Denim, to name a few. She has also lent her elegance to numerous magazines, including the likes of Vogue Brazil, Elle USA, Glamour France, and Vogue Greece, among an impressive array of others.

Anastasia Bondarenko

On the runway, Anastasia has walked for renowned designers like Vivienne Westwood, Oscar de La Renta Bridal, and Rachel Comey. Her presence has graced the covers of esteemed publications such as Air France Madame and Grazia Italy, adding to her ever-growing legacy in the fashion world.

Anastasia Bondarenko

Anastasia’s artistry extends beyond traditional avenues, encompassing lookbooks, e-commerce platforms, and even TV commercials. Her versatility and panache have earned her a place in various domains, from Macy’s and Neiman Marcus to Samsung Mobile Galaxy S6 commercials in Korea and Asia over the years.

Can you share with us your journey into the world of modeling, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this industry at a young age?

I was discovered in my hometown Lviv when I was 15 years old. I never thought of becoming a model; it just happened. I decided to follow this path because I felt this kind of opportunity is pretty rare and special, and it opens a lot of doors in life.

How did moving to Milan and Paris after high school graduation shape and influence your early experiences as a model?

I absolutely loved it. Of course, I got dived into a completely unfamiliar new world to me. I met so many interesting people, explored new cultures. The beginning of my career, despite some challenges, left me with some of the most amazing memories.

You’ve had the opportunity to work with various prestigious fashion brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Makeup Forever, Bourgeois, and Hudson Jeans. Can you tell us about your favorite campaigns and what made them special for you?

Anastasia Bondarenko

I really enjoy shooting beauty campaigns; it’s the most fun. Love to see yourself in different makeup looks. It’s usually always shot in a studio, so days are easy. One of my favorite campaign shoots was for Bourgeois Mascara.

In your career, you’ve graced the covers of numerous well-known magazines and have been published in outlets including Vogue, Glamour, L’Officiel, Grazia, Elle, Cosmopolitan, and more. Could you share a particular magazine shoot experience that holds a special place in your heart?

Editorials are always creative and give you some room to play and become part of the storytelling. One of my favorite editorial shoots was shot in Punta Cana for Votre Beaute magazine. I loved it for the obvious reason; it definitely didn’t feel like work, we had an amazing team, and the whole trip felt like a vacation! While we got some stunning photos out of it.

Runway shows are a significant part of a model’s career. Could you describe the preparation process in the weeks before stepping onto the runway for a fashion show? What has been your favorite show to date?

Preparation before the shows is actually not that exciting as you need to be in the most perfect shape. My favorite show I’ve walked was for Betsey Johnson. It’s always such a cool, Barbie-like experience to walk her shows!

Having a Social Media presence is an increasingly relevant part of any fashion model’s career. What are your thoughts on social media & how have you utilized it to your advantage?

Yes, Social media has become very much business-driven. In this industry, you need to have a presence; it becomes your business card in a way. Obviously, we are all aware of the positive and bad aspects of it. The most important thing is to acknowledge it and know how to make the best out of it for your own good.

Having worked on a wide range of projects, from print campaigns to TV commercials, which medium do you find most challenging and rewarding as a model, and why?

Absolutely, TV commercials are known for their significant compensation, and they offer the added benefit of potential residual payments for each airing.

Collaboration and teamwork are vital in the fashion industry. Can you share your experiences working with designers, makeup artists, and photographers, and how these collaborations contribute to the success of a project?

It’s always a team effort that creates magic in this industry. Every person on set is crucial and adds value, from designers and makeup artists to photographers. The most important aspect is that we all have a good time creating together.

Your work has taken you to various locations and allowed you to experience different cultures. How has traveling influenced your perspective as a model and enriched your career?

It’s honestly made me who I am, that’s what I am mainly grateful for modeling. I’ve traveled so much and saw the most amazing places. And of course, it’s essential to do that for your career as well. You don’t want to be in one place for too long; you need to be on the move to get agencies excited about you and have them in a bidding war 😉

With such a busy and demanding schedule, how do you prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy lifestyle while pursuing a successful modeling career?

Well, modeling is demanding self-care, both physical and mental. So no matter my schedule, I always find time for my own peace and listen to what my body needs to feel my best self.

Is there a particular fashion designer or brand that you aspire to work with in the future? What draws you to their designs or vision?

Would love to work with Sports Illustrated. It’s every model’s dream to become an SI model.

Fashion trends are constantly evolving. How do you stay updated with the latest trends and incorporate them into your work as a model?

I prefer to maintain my own style rather than chase trends. This helps me create a unique and timeless presence in the fashion world.

Looking back at your journey, what advice would you give to aspiring models who are just starting their careers in the fashion industry?

Embrace opportunities, stay professional, and remain true to your unique style. Persistence and dedication are key in this industry, and setbacks are part of the journey. Stay committed to your path; it’s how you make your mark in fashion.

Instagram Handle: @ana_stasia_boo