LONDON: Notting Hill
Russia may have lost the cold war but their RED HOT women won fashionista’s hearts (ok lustful beauty) globally. It is with little surprise that gorgeous Anastasia Belotskaya comes from Moscow, the center of Russian culture. Discovered at the ripe age of 16 by photographer Lev Lefimov, she began her modeling career.
Which countries have you traveled for work and/or lived in and where do you prefer?
“Right now I spend most of the time in New York, though I have been pretty much everywhere in Europe – London, Paris, Milan, Spain, Switzerland, Austria etc. I love Europe. However, if it were my choice, I would live in California.”
Favorite designers at the moment?
“I don’t have a favourite one. In terms of my own style, I wear Kooples, Diesel, AllSaints, Frankie Morello.”
What does your diet and exercise routine look like?
“I exercise not only in the gym, but also outdoors. Recently started playing basketball – good cardio I have to say! About food though… I am not a healthy eater. I just love tasty food, especially steaks and burgers.”
Do you have a sweet tooth? If so what’s your favorite dessert?
“Kiev Cake is my favourite, this is a Russian dessert. Alternatively, I like apple crumble with ice cream on the side.”
Favorite beverage either alcohol or non alcoholic?
“My favourite alcoholic drink is beer, and a non alcoholic is strawberry lemonade.”
A few aspects you like about modeling?
“I like travelling, meeting interesting characters in the fashion world. Besides that, I like the job itself. Which is to say, I like being in front of the camera. I like the artistic quality of posing.”
What do you enjoy least about modeling?
“I hate waiting for a very long time just to be seen at a casting. Like all girls, I don’t like some of the critiquing of looks. But that’s the business.”
Sleep is important, how many hours do you try to obtain per night?
“If I had all the time in the world, I would spend it in bed! I am very lazy – that’s my personality. So yes, sleep is important. And I sleep every time I get a chance – on the plane, in the taxi, I can take a nap even while I am having my hair done at a photo shoot!”
What is your idea of a good model versus a bad model?
“I find it hard to answer this question as sometimes the lifestyle of a model might not affect her career. I would say it’s more about being able to overcome fears, handle the competition, be confident and open up in front of the camera. A model who can manage to do this is a good model. A bad one is the one who fails to do so. But this is only my subjective opinion.”
Fashion or commercial brands you have worked with?
“I modelled for Tommy Hilfiger, Steve Madden, Amazon, Macy’s, Target, Kiss Cosmetics, Bentley… I cannot remember every job unfortunately.”
Which notable magazines or publications have you been in?
“I have shot for Elle, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, InStyle, Grazia, Women’s Health, Bridal Guide, Shape magazine and many more.”
Any plans for acting?
“Yes this has always been my dream. I will be attending classes next Fall and have already had a few small roles.”
Anything quirky about you?
“Good question! I do horse riding and can shoot very well an AK-47.”