A Quick, Mid-Castings Chit-Chat with Model Constance Jablonski

Marilyn Agency's sought-after Parisian mannequin Constance Jablonski took the modeling world by storm last season and since accumulated an enviable roster of blue-chip editorial and advertising work. The face of Donna Karen, D&G (alongside Imogen Morris Clarke) and Topshop has been handpicked by preeminent lensmen including Daniel Jackson, Matt Irwin, Mario Testino, Mert & Marcus, Jason Kibbler, Terry Richardson, Richard Burbridge and Sebastian Kim for practically every elite magazine in the industry. Fresh from the Givenchy Haute Couture catwalk in Paris, Constance has landed stateside and already hit the show circuit this morning at Jason Wu. Not on the list? You may just stumble upon Constance at international newsstands this month in Teen Vogue (garnering an unprecidented two editorials in the same issue) W and Russian Vogue!

What makes you laugh uncontrollably?
Most recently, when I caught sight of my friend reading PAPER in the street -– while trying to find a chair to sit in at the same time. She chose a seat that was not free and dissolved into laughter upon sitting on stranger's lap!

Do you ever become homesick while traveling? Do you bring any mementos or keepsakes from home with you?
No, I've never been one to become really homesick. I love traveling! I think the fact that I am French helps fend off homesickness because a lot of modeling jobs are in Paris and I can return home at least once a month. But yes, I take all of my life with me. I've never had a sense for "smart luggage" so it's always HUGE!

What is the greatest number of castings/go-sees that you have undertaken in one day?
I think around 20 -– during my freshman Fall/Winter season, of course.

What are your hobbies or otherwise hidden talents that may surprise people?
I play a lot of sports, especially tennis. In fact I'm so crazy about it that when I was younger I wanted to be the next Martina Hingis! I really love music and playing the piano as well.

While traveling abroad, what do you like to do in new cities? And of the four style capitals on the fashion calender, in which do you most enjoy shopping?
Nothing remarkable: I just get familiar, take a stroll through the streets, try to figure out which are the best places to explore. The best city to shop in is New York of course! It is a shame that you can't find a lot of Isabelle Marrant clothes, but it's so much cheaper for me.

Who are some of your heroes of fiction?
This year I would say Edward Cullen.

Do you particularly admire or identify with any models of yore?
My favorite is definitely Elle Macpherson.

What are your last thoughts prior to stepping out onto the runway?
I have no idea really, that's a good question. I suppose I'm just in another world, so excited to be there. When you are on the runway, you just don't ever want to leave.

What is your most prized value in others?
Confidence

What is your most prized value in yourself?
That I stay true to myself.

Do you believe in luck?
Of course! Look at me: I have obtained the chance to work with the masters -- Steven Meisel, Daniel Jackson, Mario Testino... and considering that there are thousands of beautiful models on this planet, I certainly believe in luck.

How do you maintain your radiant complexion? Do you have a specific beauty ritual?
Play sports, eat healthily... and chocolate!

What is your favorite meal of the day? How would you rate your cooking ability?
Breakfast. I don't really cook very well at all...

What do you consider to be the most widespread misconception about models?
That we are stupid!

Who do you trust more than anyone else?
Santa Claus -– he has always given me good presents.

Who are your absolute favorite designers?
Isabelle Marrant, Vivienne Westwood, Givenchy [Riccardo Tisci] and Balmain [Christophe Decarnin].

Which words/phrases do you most frequently (over)use?
A french phrase, ''c'est hallucinant!''

Do you ascribe to a particular life philosophy?
Don't worry, be happy!

Pictured at top: Getting into the Valentine's Spirit with a bundled Constance Jablonski and Suzie Bird; At Gemma in the Bowery Hotel with [left to right] Sigrid Agren Constance Jablonski and Heloise Guerin. Photos snapped by Supreme model Sandra "Suzie Bird" Plassard.

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