Up Close & Personal With Anja Konstantinova

If there is one model you need to know right now, it’s this free-spirited and seriously laid-back Aussie, Anja.  

Anja Konstantinova is a femme fatale, and she doesn’t even know it. She breezes through a room as if riding a cloud, acknowledging those around her and sharing a few lighthearted laughs. Then she steps in front of the camera and, with what seems like no effort at all, transforms into a sensual goddess, fierce and focused.

Anja was born in Russia but moved to Melbourne, Australia when she was twelve years old. (Her accent is as charming as she.) We chatted for awhile under the warm morning sun in Venice Beach and I quickly deduced that she possesses a coolness that I can only parallel to the likes of Brigitte Bardot or James Dean. She was discovered at the age of 20 while working at a hair salon in Australia and currently lives in London. But before she goes on about herself, she asks me about my upbringing. Anja is welcoming, inquisitive and kind; truly curious about the people around her. We chat about growing up and bond over our love for travel. She has just flown in from New York on a redeye and is flying home to London in 24 hours. You’d think jet lag would rear its ugly head but Anja doesn’t bring it up once – she’s too solid for that. We could have talked for what seems like hours, but alas, it’s time for her to step in front of the camera. Keep reading to learn more about this all-around beauty in an exclusive interview below.

Get the look: Printed Cascades Slip, Soft Legging

Get the look: Simply and Short Velvet Slip

Get the look: Keep You Kimono, Get Off My Cloud Undie, Afterthoughts Underwire Bra

You were born in Russia and grew up in Australia after the age of twelve, which is undoubtedly cool —  what kind of kid were you?

A tomboy on the outside, girly girl on the inside.

How long have you been modeling?

Almost five years. Time flies!

You live in London now — do you have a morning routine when you’re home?

I never miss my morning walk to get coffee or tea.

And what does your ideal evening look like?

Movie party in my apartment!

Different cultures have different words for lingerie, like knickers or nightwear. As a London-living Aussie, do you have a certain word for intimates? 

I call them lingerie, but now I’ll call them knickers because I like the sound of that!

Our Intimates E-book is inspired by ’70s boudoir. What do you love most about 1970’s lingerie?

It’s flirty.

The photos are absolutely gorgeous! Do you have a favorite shot from the E-book?

That’s a hard one… the bathtub shot!!

What was your favorite outfit or piece from the shoot?

So many sexy and fun pieces! Hmmm… I would have to say the green printed sarong-style wrap from the grassland shot!

Say you have a mellow evening at home — what is your go-to “lounge around the house” outfit?

Cut off jean shorts and a soft t-shirt…. or sweats.

You’re getting married at the end of the year! Congratulations! Can you share a little bit about your wedding plans?

Thank you! I’ll tell you a little secret – I’ll be wearing white.

Ha, thanks for the inside tip! You are quite the traveler, where has been your favorite place to visit?

Well, I love LA. I have great friends there too.

And finally, what does “being free” mean to you?

A deep breath and a warm smile.

Get the look: Phases Of The Moon Velvet Bra

Get the look: Get Off My Cloud Undie, Get Off My Cloud Underwire Bra

Get the look: Merci Tank, Sleeping In Pant, The Mack Felt Hat

So much love Anja – thank you!

Photos by Harper Smith. Hair by Luke Chamberlain. Makeup by Kali Kennedy. And a big thank you to Merchant for sharing your house with us!

Shop the new Intimates E-book here!

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