NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 10: Monika Jagaciak attends the 2015 Victoria’s Secret Fashion After Party at TAO Downtown on November 10, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Grant Lamos IV/Getty Images)
In celebration of the 2015 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which airs around the globe today, The Daily chatted with two of the brand’s famous Angels.
Polish-born mod Monika “Jac” Jagaciak—Chanel face and runway regular for the likes of Alexander Wang, Valentino, and Giorgio Armani—will hit the catwalk for the third time as one of the top 10 Victoria’s Secret Angels.
How does it feel to be one of one of the 10 famous Angels?
I love this challenge and I am happy I was chosen, as it also means I have the opportunity to be a role model. As much as it is compliment, it is a responsibility.
What is your message to women all around the world?
I like to think that girls who are confident, sexy, and strong are representing VS. We also all represent different countries and are very international so I hope that shines through me as well.
Why do you feel you were chosen?
I don’t think I’m playing a character and that’s the thing about Victoria’s Secret; they choose you because you’re the woman they want to represent them. I don’t think it’s about putting on a face and walking the runway. I think it’s more about celebrating yourself and having fun at the same time.
What’s the look for hair and make up?
It’s natural, glamorous, and sexy but not too heavy. It’s how I think every girl wants to look when she’s going out for the weekend.
Name your ultimate Angel, past or present…
Gisele [Bunchen] is probably the answer every girl would have because she does have one of the most amazing careers. She is the most confident women I think you can ever see on a runway. When you see a video of her, there is not a moment that you wouldn’t believe she’s out there, trusting herself and really putting up what she has.
Which photographers do you love to work with?
I don’t think there’s one person I love to work with, but I do love Peter Lindbergh, as he does have little bit more of an old-school photography vibe.
Candice Swanepoel at the 2015 Victoria’s Secret Fashion After Party. Photo by Grant Lamos IV/Getty Images.
South African beauty, Candice Swanepoel—who has graced the covers of Italian Vogue and V—has been an Angel since 2010, which makes her something of a veteran.
How do you feel ahead of a show?
Very excited and relieved that I don’t have to work out anymore. And when I’m out there it’s just such a good feeling.
Is it a punishing workout schedule?
I do a mixture of pilates, yoga, resistance training, and weights.
What makes you an Angel?
I think that VS looks for happy girls, and they found me at a moment when I was really fresh and at that peak between girl and woman. You know, there’s a freshness, rosiness, happiness, and carefree feel at that age.
Do you have an ultimate career highlight?
I’ve been really lucky to do a lot of great editorial and work with creative people from all over the world. I love working with Steven Meisel; I’ve just done some different covers that I’m very proud of. Being in the fashion industry is kind of inexplainable if you’re not in it. It’s amazing and given me so much but we have all sacrificed a lot also.
Did you offer any advice to new Angels like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner?
Just enjoy it the most they can and let go of any nerves or any insecurities, because I had the most fun with the first one.
Divulge your favorite Angel, past or present…
I’m a big fan of Stephanie Seymour—that body, and she just oozes sex appeal. I like the old ’90s girls like Karen Mulder and of course Gisele.
