Magda Swider: »Med vsakim fotografiranjem lahko postanem nekdo drug«
Poletje Magde Swider zaznamujejo moda, potovanja in največji družabni dogodki sezone. Manekenka, ki je sodelovala z modnima hišama Fendi in Miu Miu ter se večkrat sprehodila po rdeči preprogi v Cannesu, v pogovoru za Grazio Slovenija razkriva, kako doživlja življenje pred objektivom, zakaj jo navdušujejo preobrazbe in kaj njej pomeni sodobna eleganca.
Magdo Swider smo ujeli v Cannesu, kjer je za Grazio Slovenija spregovorila o svoji modni poti, eleganci, preobrazbah in življenju med modnimi prestolnicami sveta.
Kako bi opisali svojo pot v svet manekenstva in kdaj ste spoznali, da bo moda postala tako pomemben del vašega življenja?
Moja pot je bila hkrati razburljiva in zahtevna. Že zelo mlada sem sama potovala od enega projekta do drugega ter se nenehno prilagajala novim mestom, državam in časovnim pasovom. Dolgi leti, časovna razlika, osamljeni večeri v hotelskih sobah, zimska snemanja poletnih kampanj in vroči poletni dnevi v težkih kolekcijah so bili del vsakdana. Manekenstvo je izjemno konkurenčna industrija. Biti moraš točen, profesionalen, zanesljiv, samozavesten in vedno pripravljen dati največ od sebe. Zavrnitev je del posla. Ne uspe ti na vsakem kastingu, zato se moraš v tem poklicu naučiti sprejeti razočaranja in ohraniti samozavest. Če vztrajaš, pa so nagrade lahko izjemne. Imela sem priložnost sodelovati na prestižnih dogodkih in delati z nekaterimi najuglednejšimi luksuznimi znamkami na svetu, kot sta Fendi in Miu Miu. Moda je del mojega življenja že od petnajstega leta. Začela sem kot najstnica, danes pa sem odrasla ženska. Na nek način sem odraščala v tej industriji in prav ona je močno oblikovala tako mojo osebnost kot kariero.
Vaša fotografiranja in kampanje pogosto delujejo zelo elegantno in filmsko. Kaj vas pri ustvarjanju modnih zgodb najbolj navdušuje?
Najbolj me navdušuje preobrazba. Med vsakim fotografiranjem lahko postanem nekdo drug. Rada se vidim v popolnoma novi podobi in se preobrazim v drugačen lik ali vzdušje. To je skoraj tako, kot bi postala platno za umetniško delo, živa skulptura, ustvarjena z modo, lepoto, svetlobo in pripovedjo. Vedno me navdihuje opazovati, kako se vsi ti elementi združijo v nekaj lepega in nepozabnega.
Poletni minimalizem dobi novo dimenzijo z enodelnimi kopalkami Bikinville, lahkotnim ogrinjalom Burberry, sončnimi očali Valtoria in klobukom La Stramberia. Kombinacija združuje brezskrbnost obale in eleganco luksuznega oddiha. Videz, ustvarjen za dolge dni ob morju.
Kako sami doživljate trenutke pred objektivom? Gre za nastop, umetniško izražanje ali način razkrivanja različnih plati vaše osebnosti?
Pred objektivom se počutim kot kameleon. Z vsakim videzom postanem druga različica sebe. Ljudje si pogosto predstavljajo, da manekenstvo pomeni le poziranje, vendar za vsako fotografijo stoji cela ustvarjalna ekipa: oblikovalci, stilisti, fotografi, vizažisti in frizerji. Pred vsakim snemanjem se seznanim s konceptom, razpoloženjsko tablo in čustvi, ki jih mora fotografija prenesti. Včasih je zgodba drzna, drugič romantična, skrivnostna, glamurozna ali močna. Na nek način je to podobno igralskemu poklicu, le da brez besed. Z izrazi, gibanjem in prisotnostjo pripovedujem zgodbo.
Cannes vedno združuje modo, film in glamur. Kako ste doživeli letošnji festival?
To je bil moj peti obisk filmskega festivala v Cannesu in ta dogodek imam res rada. Cannes omogoča neverjetne priložnosti za spoznavanje ljudi z vsega sveta. Ko se vračaš leto za letom, se tvoja mreža poznanstev širi in številni profesionalni odnosi prerastejo v prava prijateljstva. Sčasoma vse skupaj začne delovati kot veliko družinsko srečanje. Eden mojih najlepših trenutkov letos je bila udeležba na premieri filma Fjord v Palais des Festivals. Za to priložnost sem nosila izjemen črn klobuk z belim detajlom grozda, ki ga je posebej zame ustvarila oblikovalka luksuznih klobukov Vitalina Ghinzelli. Bil je res poseben kos, ki je odlično dopolnil glamur Cannesa.
Kako bi opisali svoj osebni slog, ko niste na fotografiranju ali rdeči preprogi?
V vsakdanjem življenju prisegam na udoben in minimalističen slog. Rada nosim preproste kombinacije, kot so kavbojke in krajši top s športnimi copati ali mini krilo v kombinaciji z visokimi škornji. Moji videzi so običajno precej zadržani, zato jih rada nadgradim z dodatki, kot so lep pas, kos nakita ali dobra torbica. Verjamem, da lahko tudi najpreprostejši videz z ustreznimi dodatki postane nekaj posebnega.
Moda je pogosto povezana s samozavestjo. Kaj za vas pomeni prava eleganca?
Zame je prava eleganca povezana z dostojanstvom, spoštovanjem samega sebe in zavedanjem, kdo si. V svoji karieri sem vedno ohranjala jasne osebne meje. Ne fotografiram se gola ali zgoraj brez, prav tako pazim, da oblačila, ki jih nosim na rdečih preprogah, dogodkih, revijah in fotografiranjih, odražajo moje vrednote. Moda je lahko zelo zapeljiva, vendar verjamem, da je najmočnejša oblika lepote tista, ki združuje čutnost in prefinjenost. Možno je biti samozavesten in eleganten hkrati.
Kateri lepotni rituali so nepogrešljiv del vaše rutine?
Moja rutina nege kože je pravzaprav zelo preprosta. Najraje uporabljam naravne in organske izdelke ter skrbim za dobro hidracijo kože. Eden mojih najljubših izdelkov je arganovo olje, ki ga redno uporabljam za nego in vlaženje. Rada si privoščim tudi limfne masaže obraza, saj pomagajo ohranjati svež in zdrav videz kože. Poleg tega veliko pozornosti namenjam gibanju. Šport je pomemben del skrbi zase, pa naj gre za tenis, pilates ali preprosto vzdrževanje telesne kondicije.
Vaše delo je povezano s številnimi potovanji. Kako ohranjate ravnovesje med delom in zasebnim življenjem?
Iskreno povedano, ni vedno preprosto. Ravnovesje je nekaj, na čemer ves čas delam.
Čeprav je moj življenjski slog od zunaj videti zelo glamurozen, je večina potovanj povezana z delom. Pogosto prehajam od enega projekta do drugega in imam zelo malo časa zase. Včasih imam za raziskovanje mesta le nekaj ur, preden se odpravim na naslednjo destinacijo.
Potovanja obožujem, vendar je ob nenehnem premikanju težko ohranjati zasebno življenje. Zato skušam ceniti vsak trenutek počitka, kadar se ponudi.
Veter postane del stajlinga. Ruta Fursa, sončna očala Valtoria in srajca Art259design ustvarjajo videz sodobne popotnice, ki odraža samozavest in svobodo. Sproščeno, a z izrazitim modnim podpisom.
Kaj vas trenutno najbolj navdihuje?
Navdihujeta me učenje in osebna rast. Rada se izzivam in preizkušam stvari, ki jih še nikoli nisem počela, pa naj gre za novo veščino, odgovornost ali šport. Ko stopim iz cone udobja, življenje postane zanimivejše. Vedno potrebujem nove cilje in občutek, da napredujem. Eden najlepših občutkov je trenutek, ko cilj dosežeš. Zame je rast eden največjih virov sreče.
Kakšni so vaši načrti za to poletje?
Poletja se zelo veselim. Komaj čakam, da se udeležim dogodkov Royal Ascot in Wimbledon v Londonu, ki sodita med najbolj ikonične britanske dogodke. Na poslovnem področju bom v začetku julija med tednom visoke mode v Parizu skupaj s francosko revijo Oniriq producirala modno revijo. Zelo zanimivo je modo doživljati tudi z druge strani modne piste. Dolga leta sem delala kot model, danes pa me vse bolj privlači tudi delo v ozadju. Sodelujem pri organizaciji pomerjanj, vaj, usklajevanja modelov in pomagam skrbeti, da vse poteka brezhibno. Posebej rada pomagam mlajšim modelom. V njih pogosto vidim sebe na začetku kariere, zato jim z veseljem svetujem in jih usmerjam. Navdušujeta me tudi sodelovanje z mednarodnimi oblikovalci ter pomoč pri predstavitvi njihovih kolekcij evropskemu občinstvu. Med modo, potovanji in številnimi projekti pa si želim najti tudi nekaj časa zase. Najraje nekje ob morju, na soncu, med slanim zrakom in mirnimi trenutki, ki navdihujejo nove sanje.
Celoten intervju in modno zgodbo pa najdete v aktualni številki, ki je že na voljo na prodajnih policah! Čaka vas tudi Catrice darilce!
Magda Swider: »Every photoshoot allows me to become someone new«
In the world of fashion, flawless images often conceal endless flights, an intense pace, and constant inner transformation. For model Magda Swider, the fashion industry has become far more than just a career — it is a space of growth, strength, and self-expression that she has inhabited since the age of fifteen.
Today, her portfolio includes collaborations with Houses such as Fendi and Miu Miu, appearances on the red carpets of the Cannes Film Festival, and photoshoots that resemble cinematic stories. Yet behind the polished gloss stands a young woman who values personal boundaries, minimalism in everyday life, and sincerity in beauty. In an exclusive interview for Grazia Slovenia, Magda Swider speaks about fashion as the art of transformation, the balance between glamour and reality, and why true elegance always begins with self-respect.
How would you describe your journey into the world of modeling, and when did you realize that fashion would become such an important part of your life?
My journey has been both exciting and challenging. From a young age, I was traveling alone from one job to another, constantly adapting to new cities, countries, and time zones. There were long flights, jet lag, lonely nights in hotel rooms, freezing winters while shooting summer campaigns, and scorching summer days wearing heavy collections.
Modeling is an incredibly competitive industry. You need to be punctual, professional, reliable, confident, and always ready to perform at your best. Rejection is part of the job, you don’t win every casting, and learning how to deal with disappointment while maintaining your confidence is one of the biggest lessons this career teaches you. If you keep persevering, the rewards can be extraordinary. I’ve had the privilege of attending incredible events and working with some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands like Fendi or Miu Miu.
Fashion has dominated my life since I was 15 years old. I started as a teenager, and today I am a woman. In many ways, I grew up in this industry, and it has shaped who I am both personally and professionally.
Your photoshoots and campaigns often feel incredibly elegant and cinematic. What excites you the most about creating fashion stories?
What excites me most is the transformation. Every photoshoot allows me to become someone new. I love seeing myself in a completely different look and stepping into a new character or atmosphere. It’s almost like becoming a canvas for a work of art – a living sculpture created through fashion, beauty, lighting, and storytelling. Seeing how all those elements come together to create something beautiful and memorable is always inspiring.
How do you personally experience being in front of the camera? Is it more of a performance, an artistic expression, or a way of revealing different sides of yourself?
Being in front of the camera feels a bit like being a chameleon. With every look, I transform into a different version of myself. People often imagine modeling as simply posing, but there is a whole creative team behind every image: designers, stylists, photographers, makeup artists, and hair stylists. Before every shoot, I’m briefed on the concept, the mood board, and the emotions that need to come across in the images. Sometimes the mood is edgy, sometimes romantic, powerful, mysterious, or glamorous. In many ways, it’s like being an actress without dialogue…a silent actress telling a story through expressions, movement, and presence alone.
Cannes is always a unique mix of fashion, cinema, and glamour. How was this year’s festival for you, and which moments will you remember the most?
This was my fifth time attending the Cannes Film Festival, and I truly love it. Cannes offers incredible opportunities to connect with people from all over the world. After returning year after year, your network grows, and many of those professional relationships turn into genuine friendships. It starts to feel like one big family reunion. One of my most memorable moments this year was attending the premiere screening of Fjord at the Palais des Festivals. For the occasion, I wore a striking black hat adorned with a white grape detail, specially created by luxury hat designer Vitalina Ghinzelli. It was a beautiful and unique piece that perfectly complemented the glamour of Cannes.
How would you describe your personal style away from photoshoots and red carpets? What do you love wearing in everyday life?
In everyday life, I prefer a comfortable and minimalist style. I love simple combinations such as jeans and a cropped top with sneakers, or a mini skirt paired with high boots. I usually keep my outfits understated and elevate them with accessories a beautiful belt, a piece of jewelry, or a great handbag. I believe even the simplest look can feel special with the right finishing touches.
Fashion is often connected to confidence and energy. What does true elegance mean to you personally?
For me, true elegance is about dignity, self-respect, and knowing who you are. Throughout my career, I have always maintained clear personal boundaries. I don’t shoot nude or topless, and I make sure that the outfits I wear to red carpets, events, runway shows, and photoshoots reflect my values. Fashion can absolutely be sexy, but for me, the most powerful kind of beauty is when sensuality is balanced with sophistication. I believe it is possible to be both confident and elegant at the same time.
Which beauty rituals do you enjoy the most and always make time for? Is there any self-care ritual you wish you allowed yourself more often?
My skincare routine is actually very simple. I prefer natural and organic products, and I make sure my skin stays hydrated. One of my favorite beauty essentials is argan oil, which I use regularly to nourish and moisturize my skin. I also enjoy facial lymphatic drainage massages, which help keep my skin looking fresh and healthy. Beyond skincare, I love staying active. Exercise is an important form of self-care for me, whether it’s tennis, pilates, or simply keeping my body strong and healthy.
Your work involves traveling and living at a fast pace. How do you maintain balance between work, well-being, and personal time?
To be honest, it’s not always easy. Finding balance is something I continuously work on. Although my lifestyle may seem glamorous from the outside, most of my travel is work-related. I often move from one project to the next with very little time in between. Sometimes I only get a few hours to explore a city before heading off to another destination. I love traveling, but maintaining a personal life while constantly being on the move can be challenging. That’s why I try to appreciate the small moments of rest whenever I can.
Besides fashion and modeling, what currently inspires you the most or brings you happiness in everyday life?
I am constantly inspired by learning and personal growth. I love challenging myself to try things I’ve never done before, whether that’s learning a new skill, taking on a new responsibility, or exploring a new sport. Stepping outside my comfort zone keeps life exciting. I always need new goals to work towards, and there is a great sense of satisfaction when I finally achieve them. For me, growth is one of the greatest sources of happiness.
What are your plans for this summer? Are there any exciting travels, projects, or perhaps moments of rest by the sea waiting for you?
I’m very excited about this summer. I can’t wait to attend Royal Ascot and Wimbledon in London – both are iconic British events that I absolutely love. Professionally, I will be producing a fashion show during Haute Couture Week in Paris at the beginning of July together with French Magazine – Oniriq. It’s incredibly exciting to experience fashion from the other side of the runway. For many years, I’ve worked as a model, but now I also enjoy being involved behind the scenes—managing fittings, organizing rehearsals, coordinating models, and helping ensure everything runs smoothly backstage.
One of the most rewarding parts is mentoring younger models. I always try to support and guide them because they remind me of myself when I first started in the industry. It’s wonderful to help talented international designers showcase their collections in Europe and to play a role in bringing their creative vision to life. Between fashion, travel, and exciting projects, I hope to carve out some time for myself—preferably somewhere by the sea, with sunshine, salty air, and the kind of peaceful moments that inspire new dreams.
