Photography Anton Stenander – Fashion Editor Katija Hirsch – Model Stella Hägerstrand at Nisch Management – Makeup by Jennifer Bauhn – Hair by Patricia Dovmyr – Fashion Assistant Laura Von Schedvin – Interview by Ciarán Howley // Total Look Prada // Bag Jil Sander // Cardigan, Trousers, Shoes and Earrings Celine – Stockings Stylist’s Own
Cardigan, Trousers, Shoes and Earrings Celine – Stockings Stylist’s Own // Jacket, Skirt and Bag Louis Vuitton – Stockings Stylist’s Own
Hi Stella! Thank you for taking the time to chat with us. Diving right in, we’d love it if you could tell us how your modelling journey began.
I was scouted on Instagram by my Finnish agent, Emma Tähkäpää, when I was 19 years old. To build my portfolio, I travelled and worked in cities like Sydney, Tokyo, Athens, and Istanbul. During this time, I was also completing my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology at University of Helsinki. After graduating, I decided to pursue modelling full time. My mother agent, Toni Korpineva, connected me with agencies across the globe and today I am fortunate to be represented by 13, worldwide.
What’s surprised you most about working in fashion so far?
As a model, you often get to be part of the final stages before a collection is revealed to the public, whether through photoshoots or on the catwalk. This summer, I had the opportunity to work as a fitting model for Gucci and saw firsthand the incredible amount of thought, collaboration, and effort from countless people that goes into creating new collections.
Jacket, Dress and Shoes Sacai – Gloves Celine // Dress and Chain Bracelet Acne Studios – Earrings D’Heygere
Can you tell us about your hidden talents?
I love knitting in my spare time. It’s such a comforting hobby, and I always enjoy bringing a project along on work trips. Although, I did have a tragic moment recently when airport security confiscated my knitting needles – with socks halfway knitted on them.
What fascinates you the most when you’re not walking the catwalk?
I grew up in an artistic environment – my mum is a film director, and my dad is a musician. Thanks to them, I developed a passion for both music and film.
Jacket and Bag Louis Vuitton // Total Look Balenciaga
Are there any shows or jobs that’ve been milestones for you?
This year, I had the honour of doing my first editorial for Vogue Portugal. The shoot was an homage to the Carnation Revolution. The revolution marked the beginning of Portugal’s transition to democracy, and I felt incredibly privileged to be part of such a meaningful project. I also made my runway debut for Gucci Cruise, designed by Sabato De Sarno as Creative Director. It was an unforgettable experience.
How would you characterise your personal style, and what influences or experiences have shaped the way you express yourself through fashion?
I’ve always been fascinated by the second-hand market. The thrill of the treasure hunt, finding high-quality pieces for a cheap price, never fails to excite me. More than that, it’s about forming a connection to my clothes.
Total Look Jil Sander // Total Look Prada
The modelling industry often emphasises specific body standards. How do you stay grounded in your own sense of beauty despite these external pressures?
For me personally, my self-acceptance and self-esteem grew when I started modelling. Growing up, I felt very insecure about my body. But when I began modelling, it was the first time I saw other girls with the same body type as mine. At jobs I was complimented on features I felt insecure about, which helped me appreciate them instead of resenting them.
How has your understanding of womanhood evolved throughout your career, and how does it intersect with your work as a model?
Fashion is one of the few industries where women take up more space than men, I’d say. This is partly because society places more expectations on women to care about their appearance. However, it also means that women are celebrated and recognised in this space. There’s often a misconception that models are extremely competitive with one another, but I’ve met so many amazing models who are always supportive, celebrating and rooting for each other.
Total Look Dior // Total Look Nicklas Skovgaard
As a woman in a high-profile career, do you feel a responsibility to challenge stereotypes about women, especially in terms of beauty and strength?
Beauty and strength come in many forms, but I believe there are societal expectations for women to present themselves as conventionally beautiful. I believe the best way to challenge these stereotypes is by simply being myself. I’m often described as having an alternative look with androgynous features, and I embrace that as part of my unique identity.
Jacket, Dress and Shoes Sacai – Gloves Celine // Total Look Prada
How do you feel about the representation of women in the media today? Do you think it reflects the reality of being a woman, or is there more progress to be made?
I do believe there’s still progress to be made. Living in a society with patriarchal structures makes it harder for women to be equally represented in various ways. However, I’ve noticed a cultural shift in recent years. This past Brat summer felt especially refreshing. Sometimes, we all just want to be messy, not always perfectly put together!
As someone who’s already well-accomplished in the modelling world, are there any personal or professional goals you’re excited to pursue next, whether in fashion or other creative fields?
I’m always looking for ways toexpand creatively and explore new horizons. At the same time, I believe it’s just as important to take a moment to appreciate where I am today and the journey that brought me here. Balancing ambition with gratitude helps keep me grounded and inspired.
Dress Versace // Jacket, Skirt and Shoes Fendi – Bracelet Acne Studios