Anastasia Degtyarenko: From Sports and Law to the World of Couture

A Journey of Passion, Perseverance, and Parisian Dreams

For Anastasia Degtyarenko, the path to success has been anything but ordinary. Hailing from Ukraine, her life took an unexpected turn during the war, shifting her trajectory from professional sports and jurisprudence to the glamorous world of modeling. Now, as a rising star in Paris, she embraces the unknown with unwavering determination and an infectious passion for life.

In an exclusive interview with Greg Alexander, Anastasia opens up about her journey, challenges, and aspirations.

1. What inspired you to pursue modeling? You started with another career, is this correct?

Anastasia: My modeling career began long before moving to Paris, but from the very beginning, it was a pleasant hobby for me, to which I paid attention in my spare time from my main activity. You were absolutely right when you noted that initially I started my professional career quite differently. Indeed, I devoted my life to professional sports and jurisprudence. But ironically, the war in Ukraine, where I come from, changed my whole future in one day, and no matter how it sounded, gave me the opportunity to develop in the direction that at the moment is my greatest passion and my daily pleasure.

2. What challenges have you faced in this life change?

Anastasia: The sports past often made me go through difficult trials and daily work on myself. Performing in the national Olympic team of Ukraine in rugby-7 tempered my character and gave me the opportunity not to lose heart in the most difficult moments of my life. But the most terrible day for me, as well as for my whole country, was the morning of the beginning of the war. It was the biggest shock and test of my life. But faith in a bright future and the support of my family gave me the strength to move forward and achieve more every day, in order to also inspire the people around me to fight for every new day lived.

3. What has been your most memorable experience on set so far?

Anastasia: In fact, each performance and show leaves amazing impressions and emotions after. This season, my most memorable work was the “MIU MIU” project this fall. I worked with a wonderful team, with which to this day we remain in a wonderful relationship.

4. Can you share a funny or memorable behind-the-scenes moment from any of your recent projects?

Anastasia: The funniest moments of the show usually take place behind the scenes, right before going on stage; but this year the funniest moments for me began from the moment of the airport and the flight to the show. But that’s a completely different story…

5. What can we find in your bag right now?

Anastasia: It seems to me that now it is absolutely impossible to imagine my bag without high-heeled shoes. But in any situation I’m ready for a party. Just kidding, of course to the casting!

6. Are there any actors or actresses who have particularly influenced your approach to acting?

Anastasia: It seems to me that I don’t have one idol to whom I fully give my preference, but I have several actors, movies with whom I will watch with great pleasure. However, I can note that my acting skills and style were influenced by the fact that I received an education in the field of acting skills; from the age of 14 I began to play in the acting workshop and gain experience on the stage of the theater.

7. Are there any specific projects or genres you hope to work in?

Anastasia: I believe that my most interesting projects are still waiting for me ahead. And often everything happens much more interesting than I could have imagined. That’s why I suggest you go on this journey into the unknown with me!

8. What are your long-term goals?

Anastasia: I have always been delighted with talented people who do their life’s work with enthusiasm and passion. Therefore, the long-term goal is to meet as many interesting masters and professionals as possible in their field on my life and creative path. The interest of creating something significant and valuable is much higher than the name of the brand or company that I could name for you now.

9. Living in Paris, what cultural experience are you experiencing?

Anastasia: Having moved to live in Paris, I was pleasantly surprised how similar the Ukrainian and French mentality is. Two friendly nations that love to share joy with loved ones and friends, are open to everything new and know how to love and enjoy this life. I feel at home, which can please me far from the Motherland.

10. Tell us about this cover shooting.

Anastasia: Working with the great team of MEPHISTOPHELES Productions was a real pleasure. The photographer Greg Alexander is someone who knows exactly what he wants. And I absolutely love the collections of designer Lena Erziak. I had the chance to do her last Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week show. I also love the elegance of Sandra J’s clutches.

A Quote That Defines You?

“Don’t be afraid to dream! After all, every dream, even the most incredible, tends to come true.”

How Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?

Anastasia: I see myself happy! As in 10 years, so now, I see myself happy. After all, this moment and this feeling is our life!

Credits

Starring: Anastasia Degtyarenko @nastya_degtyarenko_

Photography: Greg Alexander @gregalexanderofficial

Production: Mephistopheles Productions @mephistophelesproductions

Art Director & Interview: Sébastien Vienne @sebastienvienne

Hair & Makeup: Carine Larchet @carineparisparis using @Yves_saint_laurent.cosmetics & @diorbeauty

Styling: Lena Erziak Couture @lena_erziak & Sandra J Clutches @sandraj_handbags