The beauty of strength and confidence is the theme of the new digital cover of L`Officiel Online. Daria Melocchi is an Italian model of Ukrainian descent. Daria has worked for Versace, D&G, Moschino, Paul Smith, Maxmara, Marant, and Elisabetta Fanchi. Read about the beginning of her career, moving to Milan and personal beauty secrets in our conversation below.
What inspired you to pursue a modeling career?
I was never the kind of girl who dreamed of glamour and a luxurious lifestyle. My dreams were always focused on work and earning a living to support my family. Coming from a small town in the Dnipropetrovsk region, all I ever wanted was to receive a quality education at university and find a decent job after graduation. I always wished to make my parents proud of me.
Model scouts showed interest in me when I was only 15 years old. I would receive letters from various modeling agencies every day, but I didn't take them seriously. It wasn't until I turned 17 that I decided to give it a shot, and it turned out to be something amazing! Ukrainian designers instantly fell in love with me, and within a few months, my portfolio looked as if I had been working in the industry for 10 years! My first trip was to Japan, and then it was to New York, Paris, London, and Milan! I didn't have to struggle to establish my career in other modeling markets for long because I already had a strong portfolio for the main markets thanks to talented Ukrainian photographers, stylists, makeup artists, and designers. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who saw me as the face of their brand. It was an incredible experience.
Modeling work requires a great deal of effort—constant traveling, 10 to sometimes 12-hour workdays—but it's all worth it! It feels like just yesterday I was on a train heading to Kyiv, and today I'm walking the runway for Elisabetta Franchi, then rushing to another show for D&G, and being in awe as I bid farewell to Domenico and Stefano before running to a new show.
How do you maintain a healthy lifestyle while juggling your modeling commitments?
Honestly, it's not easy. I try to maintain a healthy lifestyle while balancing my modeling obligations. It can be challenging, especially in Italy, where there is a strong food culture, and often pizza and pasta are offered on shoots. So, it's important to find a balance. If I indulge in pizza today, I'll choose steamed chicken with rice and salad tomorrow. I enjoy both options equally. In addition, I work with a personal coach 2-3 times a week and try to lead an active lifestyle. I also enjoy engaging in active activities during vacations. I don't like sitting, so I'm always looking for opportunities for movement and activity.
You have worked in all the fashion capitals, why did you choose Italy for immigration?
Italy has incredibly delicious food. I'm joking and not joking at the same time :) It's truly a wonderful place! I am a commercial model, and Milan always has work opportunities. Trends in the industry may change, but in Milan, they appreciate classic feminine beauty regardless of current trends.
Milan has a very nice location in Europe. It's easy to reach all the world's fashion capitals from there. I can easily fly to New York, Los Angeles, or Berlin for a shoot on a direct flight. Additionally, it was in Milan where I met my Italian husband and quickly immersed myself in their culture and learned Italian language.
What advice or secrets can you share with aspiring models?
Here are a few tips that I can give:
- Start working abroad no earlier than 17–18 years old, when you are mature and mentally prepared. It is a job for adults who are conscious individuals.
- Besides modeling, engage in other activities, find an extra job, get an education, and develop your talents.
- Don't be afraid to be yourself; your clients and shoots will always find you.
- Your individuality is the key to your success.
- Invest in yourself, in your appearance, and in your personal development.
- Step out of your comfort zone and seek new connections not only among model friends but also among artists.
- Always be polite and smile.
Respect the people you work with, and remember that you represent not only yourself but also your country in the international fashion world. And perhaps most importantly, never lose yourself in the pursuit of success, never forget who you truly are.
Model : Daria Melocchi @daria.v__
Photographer: Alyona Leonovich @leonovich_photo
Stylist : Anna Galebach @ganna_style
Make up: Mariia Fedkovych @maria.makeup.milan
Hair: Katie King @katiekinghair
PR & management: @absolutetalentmanagement @liubov.liubinovska