When 15-year-old Polish model Monika Jagaciak opened and closed the Calvin Klein show in New York, she immediately became one of the most talked-about newcomers of the fall 2009 season. She’s become known for her powerful runway walk — even though her stomp got her into trouble when she fell on the Hervé Léger runway. But she didn’t let a fall steal her thunder. Jagaciak, who goes by the nickname Jac, went on to close both Marc by Marc Jacobs and Marni, and walked in Prada, Jil Sander, Gucci, Versace, and more. And even though she’s 15, her résumé reads like a seasoned model’s: So far she’s been on thirteen magazine covers (and counting), has shot campaigns for Japanese brand Anayi and TianPo jewelry, and walked on the runways in New York and Milan (she didn’t meet the age requirement to walk in Paris). Her big break came in 2007, when Peter Lindbergh shot her for an Hermès campaign. Only 13 at the time, Jagaciak’s photos incensed critics, who were upset at the idea of sexualizing girls at such a young age. Is 15 any better? For her, the answer is yes. She appeared in a Teen Vogue editorial this month and booked the coveted (and career-boosting) Calvin Klein exclusive for fall 2009. So, regardless of age, Jac is skyrocketing to the top.
Model Profile: Monika Jagaciak
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