Polish beauty and Givenchy model Aleksandra Marczyk from Union talks design, basketball and how she’s a bookworm at heart.

How did you become a model?

I never wanted to become a model. I was approached in a shopping centre, they took my number and called me quite a few times. I decided to do a couple of tests and they told me about the good opportunities modelling can bring. I decided it may be be a good adventure and worth giving it a try.

What were you doing before modelling?

At university studying Industrial Design. After I got the Givenchy exclusive in September I decided to take a gap year. If I do something I want to give it my all, so taking a year out meant I could do all the jobs my agency got for me. I still enjoy doing design projects in my spare time. I’m really interested in 3D animation and interiors. I’m also into graphic design.

What do you like to do when you’re not modelling?

I like to spend time with my family. Listening to music, watching films and reading books. I like to ride my bike and I used to play basketball.

What shows did you walk in last season?

In September I was Givenchy exclusive which was so good. The show and team were amazing! The music, place, clothes, atmosphere… It was perfect. I then went back to school, passed my exams and walked in the next fashion weeks. I did New York, Milan and Paris. Alberta Ferretti, Missoni, Dries Van Noten, Calvin Klein, Yamamoto, Givenchy and Alexander McQueen are some of the shows I did. I like all the music so enjoy walking on the catwalk.

Do you sing in the shower?

Yes of course! I dance and sing. I love dancing.

If you could meet anyone (dead or alive) who would it be?

Quentin Tarantino, definitely.

Do you have a particular photographer you would like to work with?

I dream to work with Steven Meisel. He’s amazing.

What’s been your favourite fashion moment so far?

When I shot in Spain a few months ago for B Store, I had a monkey on my head and the next day we shot around a castle and rode horses.

What was the last thing you bought?

An Oyster card to get here!

What would you like to do in the future?

I want to do the shows next season. At the moment modelling is making me happy but in a few years time I would like to go back to school and study design as that is what I love.

Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of bees?

I don’t want bees. I would speak to the bear and plead with him. You can’t do that with bees, there are too many of them!

Photographer David Adams
Fashion Editor and words Francesca Prudente
Hair Lotte O’Shea using BUMBLE & BUMBLE
Make up Bobana Parojcic all make-up using CHANEL SS 2012 & HYDRA BEAUTY SERUM
Model Aleksandra Marczyk at UNION
Aleksandra wears top by SIMONE ROCHA