Newcomer Maddie Kulicka got her first taste of modeling at the age of 14, when she won a local contest in her hometown in Poland. Still a bit young to tackle modeling on a global level, Kulicka worked in Barcelona and Tokyo for a year to develop her chops. Now a relatively seasoned 16, the five-foot-eleven model is in it to win it. After signing with Elite New York, Kulicka landed a spot in Phoebe Philo’s resort 2011 presentation for Céline. Two months later, the sweet, bubbly charmer debuted at the spring 2011 BCBG Max Azria show; she also walked for two of New York’s most coveted gigs: Ralph Lauren and Marc Jacobs. In Milan, however, Kulicka’s runway ascent stalled. She walked just one major show: Jil Sander. But she came roaring back during Paris Fashion Week, opening Dries Van Noten and walking all the big names, including Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, Miu Miu, and Lanvin. Now, she has a major campaign, an upcoming cover, and editorials in the works — so get used to seeing this adorable face. Click ahead to read a Q&A with Kulicka, then visit her new model profile to see loads of on- and off-the-runway pics.
Favorite memory from this past Fashion Week?
This was my very first Fashion Week, and it was really exciting to walk for all these amazing designers. It was super crazy, busy, and kind of stressful, but in a good way. I am looking forward to do next season!
What scares you?
Flying. That’s the only thing that scares me. What’s funny is that I wasn’t scared when I had my first flight to New York, but then I discovered turbulence!
What’s your ultimate goal in modeling?
I would love to work for Vogue one day. I love shootings, catwalks; I just love working.
What’s one thing you have back home you can’t find in New York, Milan, or
Paris?
My grandma’s dinners! It’s just amazing, and there really is no way to find something as delicious anywhere else in the world.
Favorite song of the moment?
That’s the tough one. Maybe “Baby Come On” by +44? I have so many favorites!
If you could have an unlimited allowance for one store or brand, what
would you choose?
I would choose [Sonia] Rykiel because of her shoes, or Chanel for their amazing bags, or Topshop because it is simple and easy to wear every day. If I really had this unlimited allowance I would be in such trouble!
Favorite supermodel? Christy? Linda? Naomi?
I like my own generation. Abbey Lee has the cutest face in the world and such great personal style. Also, Jac from Poland. She has amazing eyes!
Tell us something about modeling most people don’t know.
Modeling isn’t easy. Models don’t fight with each other. And each model is unique and smart. But, if you are not true to who you are, you’ll just disappear after one season. Also, we do eat!
Explore other rising stars (plus all the big names) in our extensive Model Manual, featuring runway pics, glamorous editorials, model bios, career time lines, and more.
