Dominika Wycech is a Paris based Haute Couture Polish model and a cover girl known for her classic features and refined looks.
24FASHION.TV: When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career as a model?
Dominika Wycech: I was never thinking about modeling. I was always refusing all scouts from model agencies. My friends were trying to convince me to give it a chance. But I was still saying no. When everyone left me alone I decided to take part in a beauty contest "Miss Warsaw" which I actually won, I also got a second title for "Miss Warsaw Models." From that moment my adventure with modeling has begun and I started to pursue it 100%!
How old were you when you first started?
I started pretty late for a model, I was already 22 years old but looked 16.
Dominika Wycech walking the runway for Guo Pei - East Palace collection Spring/Summer 2019
What do you consider the toughest aspect of this job?
I would say "there is no sure tomorrow". Everything can change last minute and you better don't celebrate your job before it's done.
What is your favorite part about being a model?
Fashion shows; during which I kind of switch worlds and realities. On the runway I'm in my own fairy tale.
What are some of your modeling jobs and runway you walked you are most proud of?
I do love Haute Couture and I'm definitely more Haute Couture runway girl then Ready-to-wear. I did 6 shows of my beloved Guo Pei and yes her shows are like a fairy tale for everyone. I will always remember the first Haute Couture season in Paris and the first show for Christophe Josse. Julien Fourni, Tony Ward, Aganovich, Tex Saverio, Zaid Nakad, Ilja, Yanina Couture, Hexa by Kuho, Rami Al Ali, Tsumori Chisato, Mara Hoffman; I did a lot, and I am proud of all of them because I love the feeling when I'm on the runway. It's not possible to explain. Also, I worked for Saint Laurent as a fitting model and that was an amazing experience. I was traveling to Venice and Bologne, and I was able to be a part of the creation process from the very beginning. I can say I'm a Margiela girl so far I was a part of the team during last few seasons. Before it was Giambattista Vali, Lanvin, Kenzo, Stella McCartney, Rick Owens, Balenciaga and Celine.
Dominika Wycech walking the runway for Aganovich - Autumn/Winter 2018
Do you think you will still be modeling in 10-20 years from now, if not what will you do?
In 10 maybe still yes. So far I don't look my age but I want to have another job and connect both. I'm planning to start studies next year here in Paris for Community Manager. I finished International Relations at the University of Warsaw but for the moment I don't feel it's my future but sure it will help.
Would you say the career of a model is short-lived nowadays?
Nowadays it's hard to say. Let's see how the modeling world will react after Covid-19. I know girls working well-being over 40 but its old generation and old "rules".
Dominika Wycech walking the runway for Christophe Josse - Spring/Summer 2013
What role do you think social media plays in the modeling industry?
Very important one but I'm not for that. Instagram counts more than your skills and achievements. That's sad.
Do you think having a large social media following helps to book more modeling jobs?
Definitely yes. During castings, you need to give your Instagram and number of followers, it started in NY and now on your comp card most of the time next to your measurements the client can see your IG.
When you're not busy modeling, what are some of your favorite things you like to do?
I do love to bike. Now when we almost can't work I'm spending my days a lot of time on my bike.
Dominika Wycech walking the runway for Guo Pei - Alternate Universe collection Autum/Winter 2019/2020
If you weren't a model, what would you want to do?
My dream was to be a chemist. But now it's unfortunately too late and would take years.
I know you travel a lot because of your work! Where is your favorite place to travel?
There is no better place than Paris. I'm Parisian. But I wish to come back to NY when it all ends. This city has an amazing vibe. Not to live there but to stay for a while.
You live in Paris, is that the best place for a model to be?
For me, it is but each model should find her market.
What is your dream modeling job.
Show for Saint Laurent. During Haute Couture season. I was doing fittings for YSL but never a show.
What's your favorite designer to wear?
Yves Saint Laurent of course.
Do you have a favorite Supermodel you admire?
Yes I do. Only one Freja Beha Erichsen
Why do you think she makes a good model?
To me Freja Beha Erichsen is a quintessence of perfection; her body, her magnetic face, eyes and her attitude to the modeling job. She is also rocky but classic. For me a model has to be skinny but of course that is a question of your genetics. I do not accept plus size models, because like that each girl can be a model. Freja is the most charismatic model for me too! And I do love her tattoos.
What advice would you give to girls that are dreaming of a career as a model?
Choose one good mother agency, be strong but humble and never give up.
By Galina Antonova,
Editor-in-Chief 24Fashion TV
