Cover Story: Fashion Model 'Ana Ilić' In An Exclusive Interview with OTS Magazine Lensed By Aleksandra Sachenko.
Model and Actress Ana Ilić is the face of OTS Magazine's November 2023 digital cover issue. The cover is photographed by previously featured photographer Aleksandra Sachenko.
Ana is a young, accomplished model from Belgrade (Serbia) who is establishing herself in the cutthroat world of fashion. Ana has filmed music videos for well-known influencers and collaborated with renowned businesses, including those showcased at New York Fashion Week, as well as publications and magazine covers in many nations. However, these are only stepping stones towards her life's ambitions. During her interview, Ana discussed how to be more than simply a lovely face, how to be in demand, how to show off her greatest qualities, and how to operate in a supportive yet very competitive atmosphere.
Hello, my name is Ana Ilić. I am 23 years old and I am from the capital of Serbia, Belgrade. I study journalism. Besides modelling, I do digital marketing and acting.
How and when did you discover you had a passion for modelling?
It was rather arbitrary. I've always wanted to go into acting, but I never would have imagined that I would be a good model. My friend from my first year of college and I went to interviews in an attempt to find employment for other students. Agents asked me to remain because there was a casting occurring there.
In your own words please describe your style as a model?
I have always been interested in fashion. I used to draw my mother the things I wanted her to get me. Modelling, I believe, has influenced my style. I gained knowledge of simplicity and pragmatism. The older I become, nevertheless, the more I search for timeless and fundamental serenity. It is crucial to me that most of my tasks can be accomplished in tandem with one another. I occasionally add a pop of colour. I'm discovering that quality matters more than quantity. However, it doesn't mean I won't continue to love even if others think I paid a fortune when I just told them ten euros. Ultimately, what matters is how you wear it, not what you wear.
Do you remember your first experience in front of the Camera?
It was so exciting. I felt very confident and like I knew what to do. It just felt natural. The people in the studio were very supportive and they gave me some tips. At that moment I knew I wanted more.
How big a role does modelling play in your life?
Very big. It gives me motivation to be healthy. Helped me learn a lot about myself and others. Also, it opens new doors.
Who or what is your biggest motivation in life?
Every bad thing that ever happened to me opened my eyes and motivated me to be better.
That response gave me chills! -What advice would you offer to other aspiring models who wish to set their own style and not be like everyone else?
What you do internally will be seen outside and will be felt as your energy. That is what makes you unique.
What Would You Consider the Most Important Components of Your Style? And Do You Feel You Have A Signature Style as a model?
Since my first love was acting, I prefer to give out emotion and expressions. Those two have a lot in common and it is important to be capable of everything. The way I express myself is through my job. That is a place you can be you. Or some other version of yourself that someone else imagined. For me it's a fun change.
If you could change one thing about the fashion and modelling industry, what would it be? What would you improve?
A bit more respect towards everyone and less nepotism.
What is the most challenging part of being a model?
The uncertainty. Not everyone can handle it.
What are some of the biggest hurdles you have been faced with as a model and how did you overcome them?
I’m not the tallest girl in the room so I got a lot of rejections because of that. That made me learn the right angles. The magic of the camera is the real thing, and that magic is actually complicated math. Also, I understood to knock on right. For everything else, I compensate with my energy.
I'm all about energy, and I tell people to trust the vibes they get because energy doesn't lie.
What one thing about yourself would you alter if you could?
Wish I was more disciplined. That is something I'm working on.
What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?
Comparing myself to other people bothers me. Let's just say that folks enjoy working with me. They claim it's entertaining. You may undoubtedly stand out if you have a good upbringing and respect for other people. The most crucial factor is energy. Both people and the camera read it.
Who are some of your favourite photographers to work with?
I have a couple of people I work with all the time. That made us friends. My favourite photographer is Aleksandra. The girl who stands behind those published photos. From the first minute, I knew I wanted to work with her. We just clicked. She is a fascinating artist and also a great mind reader. You can take a look at her work to check what I’m saying.
What’s your most memorable shoot?
Probably the one I had to travel on an island for. Met so many amazing people and laughed the hardest.
What do you consider your biggest professional success so far?
Oh, I worked with many big brands and talented people. I have a couple of covers and a lot of bigger commercials. But I don’t like to stop and admire. I'm more focused on what’s next. How good it can get?
I adore that you are a "Goal Getter". Tell me, is it true that being a model brings with it a crucial requirement called "consistency"? Do you believe this hypothesis to be true or not?
Yass!. You have to always be there and show up.
Is there any brand you would love to model for?
So many. But right now I would like to work for Guess. I love their campaigns and think I would be a perfect fit for their brand.
This is a question I always love to ask my Queens during interviews what does the word “Women Empowerment “mean to you? And how does it help women?
Oh, that is a hot topic around my girlfriends currently. For me, it means being a successful girl while you are in your feminine energy.
How do you empower females through your work?
I'm getting a lot of my friends into modelling. Or using my connections to help them in anything I can.
What are your latest and upcoming projects?
My goal is to create my own company. After everything settles, I'm sure I'll attempt modelling abroad.
What are you doing when you are not working?
I love to travel and spend time with my friends and family. Because I spend a lot of time with people, I use my free time to recharge. So it’s me and my dog. Some good book or workout is a good idea. When it comes to hobbies I love to paint.
What is your beauty regimen and how do you stay in shape?
I swear by Intermittent fasting. It keeps me disciplined. But I’m not always being 100% healthy. Just trying to have the mindset that food is medicine and an energy source, not an enemy. Also walking, swimming and yoga.
Any last words you’d like to add?
Thank you so much for choosing Aleksandra and I. It is a very good sign that what we do is art. I would like to add that any girl who wants to become a model, just go for it and work on her self-love in the process.
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If you want to keep up with more of Ana Ilić's work, follow her on social media;
Photographer | Instagram
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