Revisiting the 90's Super Model Era
From communist Poland to the runways of Paris, Milan, and New York — Karolina Muller walked the most exhilarating decade in fashion history alongside the women who defined it.
Born in Elbląg, communist Poland, discovered by a photographer while still in high school — Karolina Muller rose to the pinnacle of an industry in its most electrifying decade.
She moved to the United States, built a life in New York City, and walked the most prestigious runways in the world. She modelled for Versace, Chanel, Dior, and Ralph Lauren. She was photographed by the defining image-makers of the era.
And when that era ended, she transitioned — with characteristic discipline and self-possession — into acting. The two worlds, it turns out, required the same thing: total commitment to the craft.
Today she lives in Switzerland, continuing to travel the world for her work, and reflecting on a life lived entirely on her own terms.
"I walked the runways for the best designers with iconic Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Nadia Auermann and Gisele Bündchen. Those were very exciting yet demanding days. I had to become a businesswoman practically overnight."
Karolina MullerYour greatest inspirations or influences?
Personally speaking, I take inspiration from many different sources — whether it's in the form of art or simply the people I encounter.
What do you feel your meaning in life to be?
I believe that everyone is unique and therefore, it's completely up to us to find our gift, our purpose — and then share it with others.
Some causes that mean something to you?
Apart from working in the entertainment and fashion industry, charity work has always been close to my heart. There are many causes of huge importance and just not enough awareness.
How has the fashion world changed since you got your start in it?
My showbiz adventure started in the 90's when there was no widespread internet or social media. It's completely different now. The industry has changed tremendously with social networks.
Nowadays there's also a lot of attention to body shaming — so to be a model doesn't mean to be skinny or anorexic-looking anymore. Internet has had a huge impact on the industry and I believe it will only continue developing.
She walked with:
"Far better is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits, who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the grey twilight that knows no victory nor defeat."
Theodore RooseveltThe Photographers
Who defined the eraThe master of black-and-white portraiture whose intimate, cinematic images redefined beauty in fashion photography through the 80s and 90s.
Known for his soft, painterly aesthetic — long exposures and delicate light that gave fashion imagery an almost otherworldly, timeless quality.
The Parisian-born, New York-based photographer whose natural, elegant style made him the favourite of Diana, Princess of Wales, and Vogue editors worldwide.
Versace · Chanel · Dior · Ralph Lauren
Lindbergh · Roversi · Demarchelier
