Her path is far from typical—a convergence of art, history, and fashion, and full of wanderlust. From learning about Persian art to discovering India’s streets, her life is filled with enthralling layers, one more compelling than the next.
Team Credits:
Model: Katerina Kosinkova
Photographer/ PR: Irena Eastington @happy_in_style
Make Up Artist: A. Williams @aclvisualsmua
Retouch: A. Utash, A. Chursinova
Styling: Isa creative @isa_creative
With Special thanks to Victoria Wincewicz @purplepr
Cultivated in culture, history, and storytelling, Katerina Kosinkova does not simply occupy space, she reshapes it. From Persian art to the vibrant streets of India, she draws inspiration from everywhere and uses it to form her own unfolding narrative. Off the runway, she’s as multi-layered and sophisticated as the art and fashion she loves—subtly strong, contemplative, but forever on the lookout for the next horizon. Her path is one of continuous reinvention of herself and her world and finding beauty in the dichotomies that define her.
Dress: Azzi & Osta @azziandosta
Earring: Alessandra Rich @alessandrarich
Shoes: Aquazzura @aquazzura
Dear Katerina, welcome to L’Officiel India. You were born in the Czech Republic, moved to London when you were 20, and received your bachelor’s degree from Central Saint Martins – a globally recognized leading centre for art and design. Presumably, you were not being taught in the traditional sense, and you were encouraged to push creative boundaries. What was the most unconventional or daring project you worked on during your time at CSM?
Yes, the art school training students receive at CSM is indeed unconventional. Students are given vast creative freedom. One begins to see art from a global perspective and learns the right technical skills and attitude, which are much needed during post-graduation. Personally, the projects I found challenging and enjoyed working on the most were the real ones from the real world, on which we collaborated with real businesses such as LVMH or Smythson, and received feedback from industry professionals.
Dress: House of Nitka @houseofnitka
Earrings: YSL @ysl
Following your degree, you worked in multinational communications and advertising companies, and then continued your education at The Courtauld Institute of Art. Your elective subject at The Courtauld was ‘A Taste for the Wondrous in Fifteenth-Century Persian Arts’, which sounds fascinating. What is the most ‘wondrous’ thing you discovered in that course?
It was a deep blend of cultures that crossed the Silk Road. In Persian Arts specifically, I was inspired by its details, which often held importance and provided insight into a situation or an event. Beyond the details and symbolism, I appreciated new ideas, materials, and styles across the region, which clearly traveled through the Silk Road and fueled creativity.
Dress: Azzi & Osta @azziandosta
Shoes: YSL @ysl
You have traveled extensively in India. What’s one hidden gem that most tourists miss but you think is a must-visit?
Unfortunately, I have not traveled extensively enough to recommend a hidden gem to anyone born or living in India. But for me, a must-visit place, and probably always will be, the Taj Mahal. It is an incredibly powerful place, as an Architectural work and a symbol of love.
Dress: Azzi & Osta @azziandosta
Jewellery: Anhuka Jewellery @anhukaofficial
You studied both Western and Persian art history and traveled to India several times. Have you noticed any interesting historical or artistic connections between these cultures? If you could take one aspect of Indian craftsmanship—be it textiles, architecture, or jewelry- and introduce it in a modern European business setting, what would it be and why?
I love Indian patterns, especially in the form of embroidery. I can easily imagine embroidered saris in not only European but also international contemporary settings. Indian craftsmanship is so incredibly rich, I feel almost guilty choosing just one element of it. I hope you do not mind me adding block printed fabrics and the beauty of your luxurious silk.
Jewellery: Anhuka Jewellery @anhukaofficial
I am pleased to hear you believe the traditional Indian art forms have the potential to continue to influence modern design and everyday life today. When it comes to fashion, do you enjoy wearing Indian fashion? Do you have a favorite piece of clothing?
It is definitely a sari. It is beyond elegant, rooted in tradition, yet somewhat contemporary and versatile. The variety of fabrics from cotton to silk is endless, and the same goes for its colours and the above-mentioned embroidery. The way it is draped makes it so personal and timeless. I see a sari as an art form, not just a piece of clothing.
Dress: Azzi & Osta @azziandosta
Shoes: YSL @ysl
Are you planning a trip to India anytime soon? If so, what places are on your list, and what draws you to them?
Sadly, I do not have any trip scheduled to India, but if I could pick my current favourite, then it would definitely be Rajasthan, especially Jaipur. I am so eager to see the ‘Pink City’ and its royal palaces. It all just looks so stunning in pictures. I hope I will have the chance to experience it in person and see the beauty with my own eyes. I have also been planning to go on a yoga retreat for a long time, and I think Kerala would be the top wellness destination to attend such a retreat.
Dress: Azzi & Osta @azziandosta
Earring: Alessandra Rich @alessandrarich
Shoes: Aquazzura @aquazzura
