SUZYA LITVINENKO TALKS MODELING
"The dress I wore was spectacular"
Daniel John
At five feet ten inches it might almost seem preordained but rising in modeling takes more than just standing tall. What was your first time modeling like, and how long have you been in the world of fashion by now?
Being tall has always been part of my story, even as a child, I was about six years old, people would often suggest that I should try modeling. At the time, though, it wasn’t something I was particularly focused on, so I never pursued it seriously. Still, my height and overall look always made modeling feel like a natural direction that might eventually become part of my life. That moment came when I was twenty-three, when I received an opportunity to step into the industry. My proportions, height, and appearance fit what agencies and creatives were looking for, and I decided to finally explore that path. My first project was actually only two years ago! At the same time, I had already been working closely within the beauty industry as a beauty specialist. Through that work, I was constantly surrounded by the fashion world, collaborating with photographers, models, event-organizers, and other creatives, and attending many fashion shows and industry events. So when I began modeling myself, it felt like a very natural transition. People in the community already knew me, and modeling simply became an extension of the creative space I was already part of. It felt less like entering a completely new world and more like expanding my role within it.
What is the most recent project you worked on?
My most recent project was a fashion photoshoot that took place in a beautiful studio in downtown Toronto. The concept was centered around a fashion and lingerie aesthetic with a strong focus on elegance and visual storytelling. It was a really creative and inspiring shoot, and I loved the atmosphere we created as a team. It actually happened just a couple of weeks ago, so it’s still very fresh in my mind. Experiences like that remind me how much I enjoy being part of creative projects where everyone brings their own vision and energy to the set.
What kinds of work fulfill you most. From walking the runway to creative shoots, other live events or working more closely with designers in the ateliers, where do you feel most at home working-wise?
Over the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to work across many different areas of the industry, from creative photoshoots to fashion events so I’ve been able to experience most of the environments that you mention. But if I had to choose, I would say that fashion shows are what excites me the most, what I love about them is that they bring together so many different elements of the creative process. It usually begins long before the show itself, starting with measurements taken in the atelier followed by fittings where you see the first version of the garment and watch the designer’s vision slowly come to life. Then there is the preparation before the show, the backstage energy, the makeup, the hair, the styling. Everything is carefully planned down to the smallest detail. And of course, there is the moment on the runway, walking under the lights, feeling the atmosphere of the show, and being in front of the audience is a very special experience. After the runway there are often photos, media moments, and more creative interactions, so the whole process feels very dynamic and inspiring. For me, working a fashion show combine creativity, performance, and collaboration in a really unique way, which is why I enjoy them so much.
You clearly bring so much into every opportunity, is it important for you to find that same dedication in the people you work with?
For me, it’s always wonderful to feel positive energy and dedication from the people I work with. Of course, collaboration becomes even more inspiring when everyone is equally passionate about the project. At the same time, I try not to place expectations on others, because I believe the most important responsibility is the one we have toward our own work. Whenever I take part in a project, I focus on giving my full energy and professionalism. I always try to contribute the best I can. Regardless of how involved others might be. For me, it’s important to stay consistent, focused, and respectful in every situation. That said, the atmosphere on set still matters a lot. The environment I appreciate most is one where people feel comfortable and respected, where there is no judgment, no harassment, and no unnecessary pressure. When a team creates a space that feels safe, professional, and collaborative, it allows everyone to do their best work. And fortunately, that is the kind of atmosphere I have often experienced in the projects I’ve been part of.
Any favourite garments from shoots or shows you wish you could have kept for your own wardrobe?
Yes, actually there was one piece that left a very strong impression on me. A couple of months ago, I took part in a beautiful fashion show where everything was incredibly detailed and thoughtfully designed. The dress I wore was truly spectacular. The designer told me it contained almost thirty meters of fabric. It had a very long train, so assistants even helped carry it as I walked to the runway. The silhouette, the fabric, and the bow detail were absolutely stunning! And the dress fit me perfectly! The entire look was carefully styled! From the hair and makeup to the nails and accessories. Every element was planned with great attention to detail. Wearing that dress felt magical. I remember feeling almost like a princess walking down the runway. It was one of those moments where everything comes together, the design, the atmosphere, the lights, and the audience. In fact, the moment meant so much to me that I printed one of the runway photos from that show. A photographer captured the walk beautifully, and now I have a large print of the image displayed at home. It’s a reminder of one of the most special experiences in my modeling journey so far.
So, outfit check. What does your everyday, off-set, style look like?
When it comes to my everyday style, I really enjoy putting thought into my outfits. I would describe my own personal style as a mix of casual and classic pieces. I love clothing that feels elegant but still comfortable enough for everyday life. I’m especially drawn to dresses and skirts, because I like silhouettes that highlight femininity in a subtle, and natural, way. I tend to prefer pieces that gently emphasize the shape of the body rather than very oversized or baggy styles. For me, fashion is a way to express personality and confidence. I enjoy looking polished while still feeling like myself! So my everyday wardrobe usually reflects that balance between simplicity, femininity, and a classic aesthetic.
What’s something you enjoy doing in your free time, not working?
My schedule is usually quite full since I am also working in two other areas alongside modeling. One of them is the beauty industry, I work as a beauty specialist, which naturally connects very closely with the world of fashion and creativity. Because of that, both modeling and beauty are part of my daily life and take up a lot of my time and energy. Whenever I do have free time, I enjoy staying active. I practice yoga quite regularly, especially vinyasa, hatha, and ashtanga. It helps me stay balanced both physically and mentally! I also really enjoy reading and learning about psychology, self-development, and self-reflection. I find it important to keep growing and understanding both yourself and the world around you. At the same time, I like to stay socially connected, meeting friends, attending different events, creative gatherings, photoshoots, and private or live events within the industry. And another thing I genuinely enjoy is cooking. It’s something that helps me relax and be creative in a different way.
Have you ever worked in proximity to the Scandinavian fashion scene?
I’ve never had the opportunity to work directly within the Scandinavian fashion scene. So it’s something I haven’t explored yet. I have to admit that I’m not deeply familiar with it at this point but I think it would be very interesting to learn more and potentially collaborate in that space.
Being based in Canada, you probably already have something in your wardrobe for our Nordic weather?
I definitely already have a selection of warm pieces in my wardrobe that help me manage the cold winters here so I feel prepared to adapt to Nordic weather and styling if the opportunity arises.
