Exclusive Interview with Karolina Moura, She Has Courage In Heart, Confidence In Stride
Eshika Chopra
Karolina’s journey in the fashion world is anything but typical. At just 21, Karolina has already established herself as a rising star in the fashion world, a testament to her drive, adaptability, and charisma.
Karolina’s approach to life and fashion is rooted in authenticity. Her style is an elegant fusion of timeless sophistication and modern flair, a reflection of her belief in wearing stories rather than trends. Whether it’s walking for some of the world’s most renowned brands or experimenting with sustainable fashion, she carries herself with a confidence that feels both natural and empowering.
Off the runway, Karolina brings a playful, relatable charm to everything she does. Her love for romantic comedies, childhood keepsakes, and culinary adventures reveals a grounded personality behind the glamour. With big plans for the future, including connecting more deeply with her roots and exploring health and wellness, Karolina is carving out a path that’s as impactful as it is stylish—proving that the most exciting stories in fashion are the ones written from the heart.
Happy New Year and welcome to L’Officiel India Karolina! If you could swap lives with any supermodel, who would it be and why? What would you do differently in their shoes?
There are many incredible models I admire, so it’s truly hard to pick just one I would swap lives with. With my immense love for Brazil, my first pick would be Gisele Bündchen. She is a woman who has built an extraordinary career, marked by her talent, strong personality, and absolute dedication to work. She walks the runway as if she was born for it and her striking presence in editorials and campaigns deeply inspires me. To me, she is an icon of perfection and authenticity. Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything about her journey, as I believe every decision she made led her to become the remarkable woman and professional we all know today.
At just 21, you’ve achieved so much. Please describe your journey in the industry till now. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Every career start is challenging, especially in the international fashion industry. I left Brazil at the age of 16, so I was very young. At first, I faced a significant barrier, I didn’t speak English, which made my first international season even harder. Before leaving my home country, I had only two months of experience as a model, so I found myself in a completely new world where I needed to quickly learn not just languages, but also the dynamics of work as a model.
My first destination was Milan, where, in just three months, I managed to learn Italian, which helped me to communicate better and understand what clients expected from me. Even though I started speaking a bit of Italian, it was a challenging period, as I often didn’t immediately understand what was being asked of me during the shoots. I have always considered myself an extremely determined and focused person, which has allowed me to observe, adapt, and eventually meet the market’s expectations. These early struggles taught me a lot about resilience, discipline, and the importance of never giving up, even in the face of challenges. Every obstacle was an opportunity for growth that has shaped not just my career, but most importantly who I am as a person, 21 y/o, today.
With your extensive experience in the fashion industry, how would you describe your style, and how has it evolved?
My style is a reflection of my journey and experiences in the fashion industry. I would describe it as a mix of timeless elegance and contemporary touches. I have always believed in the power of simplicity, but I also love experimenting with details that express my personality. Over time, my style has evolved along with my understanding of fashion. Early in my career, I was drawn to trends and high-energy looks, but as I matured, I gravitated towards pieces that resonated more with authenticity. Now, I prioritize quality over quantity and seek designs that tell a story or evoke an emotion. Ultimately, my style is less about following the masses, but more about self-expression. I’m all about staying true to myself.
Your Instagram is so full of amazing moments, but do you have a favorite Instagram story or post that was purely spontaneous and fun?
Yes, there is a very special photo for me that was taken spontaneously while I was working with a photographer who deeply marked my career, namely, Giovanni Gastel. He was an amazing Italian photographer, and I had the privilege of meeting him during my first campaign. I remember being so nervous that day, as it was my debut in something so important, but he managed to turn the atmosphere into something light, fun, and creative. That photo captured not just the moment, but also the essence of his kindness and professionalism. It’s a memory I carry with great love and gratitude and he will always be remembered for that.
Representing renowned brands is a significant achievement. Could you share a memorable experience from working with any of these brands?
Yes, one of the most memorable moments of my career was my first runway show for Dolce & Gabbana, when I was only 16. I had just arrived in Milan for my first fashion week season, and being selected for such an iconic show so quickly was simply unforgettable. The experience was amazing, the clothes were stunning, the atmosphere was full of energy and excitement, and I felt fulfilled living a dream. I have always admired the brand, and being part of that special moment was an honor.
What fashion trend do you think is underrated right now but will be huge in the next couple of years? What would you love to see make a comeback?
One trend I think is underrated right now but will gain momentum in the next few years is the focus on sustainable pieces. More and more, I see people valuing not just the design but also the story behind the clothes — from organic materials to traditional crafting techniques. This emotional connection with what we wear is bound to grow and transform fashion in a very positive way. As for what I would love to see make a comeback, I would say the styles and cuts of the ‘90s with a modern twist. I love the combination of minimalism and elegance that defined that decade — from clean tailoring to casual pieces that manage to be sophisticated. I believe this balanced approach has a lot to offer.
You’ve traveled the world and been in the spotlight, but what’s a guilty pleasure of yours that people might find surprising?
Although my life is full of travel and moments in the spotlight, my ‘guilty pleasure’ is something quite simple and unexpected: I love spending an entire day watching romantic comedies, TV series or simply reading a book, accompanied by a lot of popcorn and chocolate. (but I’m getting better with the chocolate). It’s my way of disconnecting from the fast-paced work rhythm and allowing myself to enjoy something light and comforting. I think, sometimes, the greatest luxury is simply to slow down and take time for myself.
Having lived in multiple countries, which city or country do you feel most connected to, and what makes it special for you?
Milan. Italy has something special that has always deeply connected with me. From the first day I arrived, I felt at home. I quickly learned the language, made wonderful Italian friends, and fell in love with the culture, which shares so many similarities with the Brazilian one — warm, welcoming, and full of life. Milan, in particular, is a place where I feel very comfortable. Every time I return, it’s like coming home. It’s a city full of special memories for me.
What’s the one item you can’t live without when traveling between cities like Milan, New York, and Miami? Any quirky travel habits?
The item I never leave behind is my teddy bear, named Princesa. It may sound unexpected, but she has been with me since childhood and holds great sentimental value. Having Princesa with me on long trips between cities like Milan, New York, and Paris gives me a sense of comfort and familiarity, even when I’m far from home. A fun fact about my travels is that I always try something typical from the place I’m in, whether it’s local food, a special food, or a traditional dessert. It’s a way for me to connect with the culture of each city and create unique memories because I love food.
Looking ahead, what are some goals or projects you’re passionate about pursuing in the next few years?
In the coming years, my primary goal is to continue expanding my career as a model, working with brands that resonate with my values and passion. I’m also incredibly excited about the possibility of spending a season in Brazil, where I can connect with local brands and honor my roots in a way that’s both personal and professional. Working with Brazilian talent and designers would be a dream come true. Beyond modeling, I’m deeply passionate about health and wellness, and I plan to explore this field through further education. I envision blending my experience in the fashion industry with a future in health, perhaps advocating for a more holistic approach to beauty and well-being. Ultimately, I aspire to not only break boundaries in my career but also pave the way for others, especially young women, to embrace their dreams fearlessly. I want to inspire the next generation of models, entrepreneurs, and creatives to redefine what success looks like—both in fashion and beyond. It’s all about growth, impact, and staying true to one’s vision.
