The world of Model Management with Kasia Konar

I met Kasia Koniar on the bus. A beautiful character that instantly stops the room with her sunshine, permanent smile and easy-going European flair. At first I thought it was Miranda Kerr, I was corrected. Her style, in her own words is ‘Simple, elegant, but with a little bit of an edge”. She lives in Chicago and works at Factor Women Model Management (formerly Elite Models Chicago) as their Director of Scouting and Development. Kasia was born in Poland, but also lived in France, Japan and the US. Indeed a global minded character but also a highly achieved individual in the fashion industry, she says “Fashion and fashion related video production are the two domains I have worked in my whole life”.

Prior to Factor, Kasia was the Associate Producer for the acclaimed TV show “Fashion File” in Paris, while she contributing to Vogue.fr as a freelance writer. She also interned for the Paris Office of Harper’s Bazaar and M6 Television which kicked started her freelance positions for both companies. Kasia studied Film and Visual Communications at the American University of Paris. Her first career started at age 16 as a model for Elite Model Management. Besides being a pro at her job, she is proud of her abilities to direct, produce and edit, “I worked in TV/Video production and studied film. I still work on some independent productions. I’m a very visual person”. 

Me: When did you start your love affair with Fashion?
Kasia: Fashion is a form of self expression and of communicating one’s identity, so as far as i can remember it was always something that attracted me

Me: What was the first fashion item you noticed making a ‘trend’ and when was that? 
Kasia: I really don’t remember exactly, but it would have been very early on in grade school. Kids were already aware of what certain pieces of clothing meant in terms of status, money or look…especially where I come from.

Me: I love that, I must say, your fashion style is inspiring me. Any timeless tips?
Kasia: Let’s see… the key to looking good (and timeless) would be knowing your body type, wearing clothes that are flattering and appropriate for you personality. Blindly following trends can be a disaster!

Family brought Kasia to Chicago and she finds this city quite unique. “It’s a surprising city. You can find some really great restaurants, hang outs, and of course people if you are willing to spend some time here. I find its setting really unique. I like the big city buildings by the water… reminds me of Copa Cabana”. 

Me: Where were you raised and who were your prominent role models growing up?
Kasia: I grew up in Poland at the end of the Communist era. I think at the time our role models were all confused as we were looking up to the West for inspiration, and forgetting our own. The West looked so much better and brighter.

Me: I keep getting distracted by your style. Any favorite and most classic fashion accessory?
Kasia: I have always loved unique rings and bracelets. I probably have too many!

I loved hanging out with Kasia and did not think we spent enough time chatting while walking around Lincoln Park. For such a determined, strong yet elegant personality, I asked her what quote she lives by.  “And if not now, when?”