Valentina Beli is a NYC-based model and the founder of KOPF Bags. Between her glamorous photoshoots, busy entrepreneur schedule, beauty routine, we got a chance to speak with her about her life in New York, modelling career, and, of course, KOPF Bags.
(Beyond Fashion Magazine): How did you start your modelling career?
(Valentina): My modelling career started by chance when the Miss of Belarus Kate Litvinova caught me in the street and invited me to work for a campaign for the Polish/German brand TIFFI. I worked with the top model Leo Jimenez and one of the most famous Polish photographers Szymon Brodziak who inspired me to start a modelling career.
What was your favourite photoshoot so far and why?
I love all my shoots because they really contributed to my career, experience and even my lifestyle. But I can’t forget the cover shoot for L’Officiel Latvia. Being a cover-girl for the leading fashion magazine is an inspiring event. It’s the moment when you become the face of everything that the new season brings. The campaign shoot for Dee Ocleppo (the wife of Tommy Hilfiger) made me extremely proud of myself. But I also worked with many famous designers, including Swarovski, Kenzo, Tory Burch, Chanel, Gucci and others.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Hopefully, I can continue working as a model. There are great examples of famous models who still rock the industry like Kathy Jacobs (57 y.o.), Maye Musk (73 y.o.) and of course Carmen Dell’Orefice (90 y.o.), who proved that age is just a number and you can still be the cover star at 90 years old.
How would you compare life in NYC and Europe?
I would say life in Europe is a bit quieter and more measured (depends, of course, on the city and the season). NYC requires you to be efficient 24 hours per day, every day. Sometimes it is exhausting, but this city gives you everything that you want in return. So hard work pays off.
Who or what inspires you and why?
People inspire me so much. Every single person that I met in my life has a unique story and vision of life. I learned a lot through them. My experience wasn’t always positive, but I would say it was informative and useful. In the end, the most important thing is the lesson that I was able to learn.
Which designer or company you would like to work with and why?
Whenever I walk down to Lafayette and Houston streets in Soho, I see the Calvin Klein billboard, and I’m wondering: why I’m not there yet? The aesthetic of Etro, AllSaints and Gucci also resonates with me, and it would be a dream job to be a part of their commercials.
What are 5 things that can always be found in your purse?
Usually, I have credit cards, keys, phone, lip balm, antiseptic and face mask. But when I’m going for a job, it can be a few different bras, my favorite brow soap, heels and comp cards.
What are some of your favourite spots in NYC?
I adore truffle pasta in Solo Pasta Bar, croissants in Maman, vegetarian bowl in Le Botanist, steak in Steakhouse.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Young, ambitious, sociable .
Do you do anything besides modelling? Any hobbies?
Yes, I do, actually. I’m running my own brand of handcrafted designer bags, KOPF. It is made in NYC by my partner in crime and my husband Aliaksei. The purses have been featured in Numero Russia, Vogue China, Nylon and many other magazines. We had the exhibition organized by Orchard gallery in NYC. And we are also presented in Saatchi gallery and Not Just a Label. Our bags are not just regular bags. They are statement bags and truly a piece of art. Take a look!
