Cristina Mendonca on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar. Dress, Sol Angelann by Irina Soprano. Shoes, Giuseppe Zanotti.
Harper’s Bazaar: Cristina Mendonca, how did you discover modeling, or how did modeling discover you?
Cristina Mendonca: In 2018, I was discovered by a photographer in Milan, who approached me at the Duomo. He invited me to do a shoot. That was how my first international cover came out, which was for Lushmodel.
Total look, Versace.
Harper’s Bazaar: What advice would you give to someone who is ethnically diverse and wants to be a model?
Cristina Mendonca: First of all always be you! Don’t compare yourself to the standards society imposes on you. Always try to get something positive out of every situation that happens, even when things don’t go well, at the end you will gain experience for the next time. Always believe in yourself, because we are all capable!
Dress, Krizia. Shoes, Christian Louboutin. Earrings, Gismondi1754.
Harper’s Bazaar: Modeling standards are changing. How is that affecting you directly?
Cristina Mendonca: It doesn’t affect me at all, because I simply run away from standards, I don’t like labels, and I am free on my own and against exorbitant standards.
Dress, Genny. Earrings, Gismondi1754.
Harper’s Bazaar: How do you stay in shape? Any specific diet?
Cristina Mendonca: I’m very athletic. I like to go to the gym and practice boxing. Since my childhood, I’ve strictly observed a healthy diet. Sometimes I resort to some aesthetic procedures. I am very busy, sometimes I don’t have time to do exercises, that’s where aesthetics procedure can help me.
Dress, Sophie Couture. Bracelet and rings, Gismondi 1754.
Harper’s Bazaar: What is the ratio as a model between talent and experience?
Cristina Mendonca: Talent is what you are born with and comes to the surface. Experience is what you acquire with time and experience.
Dress, Krizia. Shoes, Christian Louboutin. Earrings, Gismondi1754.
Harper’s Bazaar: What is your hobby?
Cristina Mendonca: Traveling. I love discovering new places, cultures, and cuisines.
Total look, Versace.
Harper’s Bazaar: Can you share your plans for the future?
Cristina Mendonca: In 5 years I want to be a mother and a successful businesswoman. For now, I’m working on a project, working with luxury brands, and continue traveling the world for work and also for fun. I’ll tell you more about these next year.
Dress, Genny. Earrings, Gismondi1754.
Harper’s Bazaar: Thank you for your sharing. We wish you a great season holiday and a wonderful new year.
Dress, Sol Angelann by Irina Soprano. Shoes, Giuseppe Zanotti.
**Credits**
Photograph & Style: Victor Danilov @danilov.viktor_
Model: Cristina Mendonça @badgalnathh
MakeUp & Hair: M O M M O @mr.mommo
Extension: Netohair @rei_do_megahair
PR & Producers: Valentina Gurova @valentinagurova & Nikolay Gurov @n_gurov
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
