"Cheng-Huai Chuang was introduced to fashion at a young age"
Ira Sumbaeva Interview
August 25, 2017 8:00 AM
TWELV sits down with model Ira Sumbaeva to give a glimpse into the story of the cutest Belarusian model living the dream in New York City. Browse her personal curation of portraits, and read the full interview below.
1. Where are you from?
I was born in Belarus, the city Brest. It’s a cute little country with a lot of lakes and forests. Not so far from my city, you can find “Ded Moroz Residency” (U.S. Santa Claus’ home), located in the very famous Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park. I used to visit him every Christmas when I was a kid and I still believe in fairytales!
2. How were you discovered?
When I was a teenager, I was interested in makeup and fashion so I got into a “model school” where my mother agent scouted me. Then, I went to my first trip to Japan…
3. How was your first trip? Were you nervous to travel by yourself?
It was my first trip abroad by myself, but I wasn’t nervous at all. I was so excited! Japan is a like a different planet and people are extremely nice and helpful if you get lost in a big city.
4. What was the most memorable shoot you’ve ever done?
I’ve had a few! But the most memorable one was shooting an editorial in a Zoo in Switzerland. All day long, I was right next to elephants, giraffes, camels, monkeys– you name it– while striking a pose in a winter coat during a very hot day in the summer. So many emotions! Definitely not the easiest day but it was worth it.
5. Is there a model who you admire particularly?
I really admire Natalia Vodianova. I think she’s stunning, and I give her a big respect for what she does outside the fashion industry.
6. What kind of music do you listen and like?
Since I was a kid, my parents put me in music school, class accordion and piano. So music was always there in my heart. I love music! For my favorite, I have so many from the classic Chopin to hip-hop Notorious B.I.G.
7. Do you have a favorite book or movies?
I love Russian classics. My favorite is Master and Margarita. Another favorite is Shantaram, a novel by Gregory David Roberts. For the movies, my favorites are God Father and Leon the Professional. So good!
8. Your favorite food?
My favorite is Japanese cuisine, and of course borsht!
9. What are your 5 travel essentials?
Hand cream, headphones, sleeping mask, my favorite book, and a little snack of course…
10. What advice would you pass along to those starting out in the business?
Work hard and never stop dreaming!
WRITTEN BY TWELV STAFF
PHOTO CREDIT: IRA SUMBAEVA
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