FIB’s TOP MODELS Volume 63 – Sexiest Girls: Kate Grigorieva

The world is full of beautiful people. But being sexy dwarfs beauty — it is more than just a pretty face or nice physique. When you look at the Sexiest Girls we have chosen, you see a common factor: they all own their sexuality. There will always be critics, but being sexy is about having the cheers of admiration drown the whispers of jealousy.

So each week, let FIB give you a glimpse into our upcoming book, TOP MODELS Volume 63 — Sexiest Girls. Be warned, though: some of these women can make Kate Moss jealous.

Kate Grigorieva is the Top Model that inspires all the hopefuls out there to try and make it in the cut throat industry of modeling. The Russian beauty that was runner up of reality television show “Russia’s Next Top Model” actually reached top model status, and we can see why. Only three years in to her modeling career, Grigorieva has made a name for herself on the runway and in print campaigns, and shows no signs of slowing down.

Photo Credit: Yannis Vlamos
Photo Credit: Yannis Vlamos

Born Katerina Sergeyevna Grigorieva on September 15, 1988 in Olenegorsk, Russia, Grigorieva always had dreams of modelling. Prior to entering the industry she was an accomplished ballroom dancer competing very succesfully through childhood and adolescence. Grigorieva also graduated from art school, and completed a bachelor’s degree in marketing.

Her break into the industry required a huge effort on her part, but many designers are grateful that she persevered! Grigorieva auditioned for the 2010 “Miss Russia” competition but was unsuccessful. In 2012, Grigorieva again attempted to enter modelling, entering “Russia’s Next Top Model”. Placing second, Grigorieva had fears that it would not be enough to launch her career. She was wrong.

kate-grigorieva-by-mariano-vivanco-for-vogue-spain-july-2014

The agency of the program’s host, Irina Shayk, scouted the Russian beauty shortly after the show finished, and in 2014 Grigorieva made her runway debut. Not to do anything by halves, Grigorieva began by opening Donna Karan’s show, and went on to walk for Oscar de la Renta, Tory Burch, and Ralph Lauren in the same week. In the same year, Grigorieva was named one of the best models of the year by models.com.

She also fronted Russian Vogue and Numero France. These two covers demonstrated Grigorieva’s immense talent. Her Numero France cover was widely criticised for being overdone, as the model wore heavy eye makeup that was contrasted with tightly braided hair, however, contrary to these criticisms, Grigorieva made the look with her intense stare and proved her worth to designers of all styles. Conversely, her cover of Russian Vogue allowed her to reveal her vulnerability and femininity. Looking at the two covers, it is almost impossible to believe it is the same model, but Grigorieva’s flexibility is one of her best assets.

Photo Credit: Numero France
Photo Credit: Numero France

Grigorieva continued her runway success when she opened the shows of Dsquared2 and Stella McCartney in early 2015. She also walked for Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchy, Hermes, Ralph Lauren and Alexander Wang. She has appeared in several editorials, including for Vogue Japan, photgraphed by Giampaolo Sgura.

The most recent success for Grigorieva was her appointment as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, joining nine other models, including Martha Hunt and Jasmine Tookes in wearing the highly sought after wings. According to New York Daily News Grigorieva was thrilled with the opportunity, saying:

“Many industry icons have been Angels, and it’s an honor to follow in their footsteps.”

Photo Credit: Victoria's Secret
Photo Credit: Victoria’s Secret

There are many qualities necessary to be a top model, and to be an angel. A unique look, strong personalty, and confidence on the catwalk are all important qualities. Grigorieva has all of these qualities in spades. Her timeless beauty attracts all designers and audiences, and is what earns her a place on our Sexiest Girls Countdown. She was featured in an editorial by Abraham Studio entitled “Angels Undressed,” a black and white photo set which showcases the models’ natural beauty in simple, yet artistically beautiful photographs.

Though already making an illustrious career for herself, Grigorieva is ambitious to achieve more, hoping to one day become the face of a cosmetics brand. After making such a huge dent in the industry so quickly, there’s no doubt in our minds that she will make it.

Keep an eye out for FIB’s upcoming book, TOP MODELS Volume 63 – Sexiest Girls.

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