Iconic Lara Leito

When did you start your modeling career, and what were your first jobs?

I started pretty late when I was 20. Most girls start when they are 15 or even younger. However, I could never imagine myself having a modeling career as I have a Marketing Communications and Business Administration degree. And the whole my conscientious young life the only thing I did was studying: in the UK - GCSE, in Switzerland - IB, and university in the USA. But as time went by, many people would ask me in admiration if I were a model. And so I thought to myself: "Probably worth giving it a shot." And that is how it all started.

Who were the designers you worked with and whom you liked the most? And with whom would you like to cooperate in the future?

I worked with Zuhair Murad, Ermanno Scervino, Georges Hobeika, Roberto Cavalli, Aadnevik, Ulyana Sergeenko, De Grisogono, among others. All the designers have always been friendly to me. I would like to cooperate with Alexandre Vauthier, Saint Laurent, and Chanel.

Now you are an Influencer. How long time ago did you start your Instagram, and how did this activity change your life?

I started my Instagram page in 2011, but I only began to use it as a business tool two years later. Instagram has definitely changed the outlook of brands on things and public personalities when it comes to marketing and promotion of their products. Everything is slowly but surely becoming digital. It’s quite remarkable how people can follow you and your daily activities and even reach out to you, no matter where you are in the world. 

You are from Russia. What Russian designers can you highlight?

Among all, I want to highlight Ulyana Sergeenko. We have known each other for a long time and have collaborated on numerous occasions: during fashion weeks and various appearances and charity events. I admire Ulyana as a designer and a personality, and I am proud that a part of our culture was able to reach the very top of the fashion world.

You attend the most prestigious events. How do you choose outfits for the red carpet?

I have many designer friends who kindly offer me their outfits. Depending on the event's type, we decide which costume would be most appropriate (a ball gown, a mini dress, or something more extravagant like a suit).

Which of the attended events did you like the most?

It's not that easy to choose among all the events that I have previously attended. I guess my top three would be: the Golden Globes in Los Angeles, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Cannes film festival, and perhaps the Oscars Vanity Fair after-party.
 

Did any curiosities happen to you during the passage of Montée des marches?

Thank god I have managed to avoid all the embarrassing moments that could have potentially happened to me. However, there was one time at the Montée des marches when I forgot that the zipper at the back of my dress was completely open (the zipper's length was reaching the outline of my underwear). The good thing was that no one noticed anything because of my very long hair covering my back entirely, and that really saved me from embarrassment.

In your opinion, which events during the Cannes Film Festival are the most interesting?

If you're a movie admirer, then definitely all the movie premiers at the Montée des marches of the Le Palais. I would also highlight Amfar, which takes place every year at one of the most beautiful hotels in Europe (hotel Du Cap). It is truly an exceptional and memorable event, and I am honored to say that I would normally get to support them and walk the Amfar fashion show as part of the auction to raise the money for a greater cause of curing AIDS. 

You are often seen in the company of famous actors and directors. Who are the most exciting and outstanding personalities on your mind?

It is true that I have met and know a lot of amazing film directors and actors. Some of the most outstanding ones that I can think of right now would be:
Milla Jovovich, of course. It's quite a unique story, actually. I have always considered her one of the most beautiful women and greatest actresses. That natural beauty combined with her wild and free spirit and unique personality. Though I had no idea that the universe would make our paths cross and that we would become very good friends. I consider her as one of the most genuine, down-to-earth personalities who cares deeply about people around her.
Jackie Chan! My childhood idol and I'm so happy that I got to meet him. He's always been so nice to me. Always in good spirits and a wide smile! He would project the positive energy that could be felt miles away. He surely didn't disappoint my expectations.
Sean Penn. I met Sean while attending the Google Camp in Italy (which is normally a three-day program). He happened to be among our group of friends, so I would see him a lot. I can say for sure that he has a powerful personality and is a very creative yet super straight forward person. I'd say: he would either like you or he wouldn’t, and he doesn't need to have a reason for that. Thankfully I happened to be one of those people he did like, and so I was lucky to get a little insight into his life. But believe me, I did see how he wouldn't even react to some of the others. And it really doesn't matter who you are. It's quite remarkable, actually.  

Do you plan to start an actress's career?

I happened to witness the whole process of making movies with hundreds of takes and hours of hair and make up every single day from the am till the pm, and it really is a tough job, so I have immense respect for all the actors and the film crew that work hard on the movies, and tv shows that we all love to watch. I did a cameo on a film in New York but had a very small part in it, though I do remember it being exciting, so I'd say - never say never, and if there is the right opportunity, I'd gladly take upon it.