Model Diaries: Nadine Leopold
Photographed by Andrew Day
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?
The first thing I do when I wake up is make myself a coffee and say hi to my doggies.
Describe your ideal day off in three words.
Books, friends, sweatpants.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
To live in the moment, as time goes so fast and you can never get the special moments back.
How did you get your start in modeling?
I was scouted at 15 in Vienna, signed with an agency there, and a year later with IMG worldwide.
Which city do you feel most at home in?
London. Aside from the rainy days, it’s my favorite city in the world. It feels like a mixture of so many cities, and it’s so green.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sushi. I love sushi so much!
What’s your go-to workout routine?
I work out three times a week doing Pilates. It changed my body.
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
I think the most challenging part of the job, and also the best part, is the traveling. There’s a lot of alone time, so it can get very lonely. Also, there’s no stability, so you have to have a strong mind.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day?
I love to watch some bad reality TV that doesn’t require much thinking, haha.
Who is your fashion icon?
I love Sienna Miller and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. A mix of both would be my dream inspo.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
How big of a nerd I am. I love fantasy movies and video games.
What’s the most memorable fashion show you’ve ever walked in?
Aside from Victoria’s Secret, which was my lifelong dream, I would probably say Jacquemus, as it was his first show. I was so honored, and I’m such a big fan.
What’s one skincare product you can’t live without?
SPF. I have freckles, so I need SPF at all times.
What are your favorite makeup products at the moment?
I love the Rhode pocket blushes and the Chanel bronzer.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
That’s a difficult one, but maybe Audrey Hepburn.
What’s your favorite travel destination?
I love Tokyo! It’s such a fun and vibrant city.
What’s the last book you read?
I’m currently having an unhealthy obsession with the ACOTAR series by Sarah J. Maas.
How do you stay grounded amidst a busy schedule?
I’m very lucky to have a close relationship with my family and a very supportive husband.
What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to aspiring models?
Don’t take rejection too personally. It’s all about being in the right place at the right time.
What’s your secret to maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
I think it’s important to say no sometimes and make sure to keep a healthy balance.
What’s your favorite fashion trend right now?
I love all the brown tones and suedes!
If you could raid anyone’s closet, whose would it be?
I would raid Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s closet! I love her style.
What’s one thing you never travel without?
My headphones. I listen to podcasts or music to switch off.
What’s next for you in your career? Any new projects you can share with us?
The industry is ever-changing, so there are always new projects in the works. I just had a big hair color change, which is super exciting, so let’s see!
If you could sum up your life philosophy in one word, what would it be?
YOLO! ;)