http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/01/29/face-time-elsa-hosk/
Face Time | Elsa Hosk
Women's Fashion By TINA TURNBOW January 29, 2013, 11:14 amComment
Photograph by Tina Turnbow for The New York Times. Makeup by Tina Turnbow. Hair by Luca Blandi for A.B.T.P.
Elsa Anna Sophia Hosk, a very sweet and exceptionally beautiful model from Sweden, was recently named the face of Pink, a subdivision of Victoria’s Secret. Just 24, she’s already worked for Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Lilly Pulitzer, Ugg and Nine West. Here she shares some of her thoughts on style, classic rock, her love of natural products, and food.
Q.
What have you been up to, work-wise, recently?
A.
Right now, I am in Brazil doing a shoot for a British company. Yesterday I was in Miami shooting an Avon campaign, and the day before that I was working in New York City on an Ocean Drive Magazine cover story
Can you share a few thoughts on fashion and your personal style?
I love fashion! I mix everything. I would never wear a look that was all the same designer. I always wear at least one thing that is vintage. I dress according to my mood, and I usually spend money on the basics, like leather jackets, handbags, sweaters and shoes. Vintage I buy when I want something special. But style for me is not just what brands you wear, or about the clothes, its about how you wear them, and how you feel wearing them.
Are you enjoying being the face of Pink?
Being the face of Pink is the greatest gig ever. The company has become like a little family for me in N.Y.C. I am constantly working with new people and every day feels like the first day of school.
What are some of the most positive things about modeling, personally and professionally, for you?
It’s a creative business and I really enjoy having creative and inspiring people around me. It’s helped me come out of my shell a bit. I used to be pretty shy, but through modeling I have been able to let go of my insecurities.
What are some of the skin care secrets you have picked up over time?
I’ve learned to use very gentle products. I’ve also learned that expensive products are not always the best ones. It has taken me so long to understand my skin, but the formula that works best for me is: gentle and less is more. But I do cleanse my skin well at night, with a good natural cleanser by Dr. Hauschka or Avalon Organics. I prefer using organic makeup and pure oils, like coconut or argan oil, as moisturizers. I’ve recently discovered Tata Harper Replenishing Nutrient Complex, which you can roll on wherever you’re dry.
Are there products that are always in your bag or luggage?
Josie Maran argan oil, RMS Beauty lip balm, Bio-Oil, Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist and Korres cleansing wipes with milk protein — they are so soothing.
Are you pretty watchful of your diet and workout routine?
I really love working out. And it takes effort to keep my body in shape. I like to do Pilates, boxing, dancing or spinning. I need to keep active because that’s when I’m most happy. But I also love eating — I think it’s one of the greatest pleasures in life!
I know you are constantly having your hair styled and worked. What products have you found to keep it in good condition?
I use argan oil, when I have dry ends. A good hair brush, like a Mason Pearson, is great because it doesn’t damage the hair. I like Kerastase shampoo and conditioner best.
Do you have a special fragrance that you look to for some good aromatherapy?
I find that a lot of perfumes give me headaches, and that essential oils actually clear them up, so I wear those. Sometimes I wear my boyfriend’s cologne because I prefer men’s scents.
Your parents were very free-spirited. Has growing up that way had a positive effect on you?
Yeah, I’d say they had a hippie vibe going on. When I was a kid I hated wearing clothes, I would rather be naked. My parents were always really natural and open. They raised me and my siblings that way. Sometimes when it was raining we would all go out in the middle of the woods and run around naked. I loved that sort of free feeling. For me the naked body is such a natural and beautiful thing, and I’m not shy with it. It definitely helps when you’re shooting lingerie and swimsuits as often as I am.
You mentioned your dad was a D.J. Can you tell me about your taste in music and what kind inspires you most?
I grew up listening to LP’s from the ’60s and ’70s. It was what my dad always played for us. I remember sitting in the library having the Beatles on repeat, wondering why music didn’t sound like that anymore. Classic rock and folk music has kind of stuck with me — it’s what I always go back to. I love old recordings, the raw sound of a voice or a guitar.
Is there any advice you’d like to leave us with?
I think it’s most important to be healthy on the inside. I’m sure you’ve heard it a thousand times, but it’s true: eat healthy, drink plenty of water and exercise. And a beautiful personality makes anyone gorgeous.