Karolina Gruszecka is a modern, urban woman, and works as a contributing fashion editor to Vogue Poland besides being a successful fashion stylist. Her vibrant personality, boundless energy, and creativity can be found in everything she puts her name to. Karla gives her all in everything she does, which is why she makes sure to spend her free time mindfully: short rituals and nature not only bring her inner peace but also inspire her.
Her fifth-floor home in Warsaw, with its seventies elegance, Italian sophistication, and Karla’s sense of humor, is an ever-changing stage for a night with friends, a yoga mat, as well as a Vogue editorial corner. This interview was published in print in Hype&Hyper 2021/2.
Mornings
What is the one thing you do every morning?
All my mornings are completely different. When I swapped the office for my home—as a result of COVID-19—my morning habits changed too. On some mornings I put on a one-hour-long facemask, sip on a fresh coffee and read my emails from bed, on other days I start with kickboxing lessons or stretching which also calms me down after a long day on set.
What would you love to do in the morning but usually don’t have time for?
Reading books in bed and having a face massage.
Which outfit or item always saves your day?
Clothes express who we are and say a lot about our personality and mood.
I like dressing eclectically, but it also depends on my plans for the day, how I feel, and how much time I have to get ready. My go-to set is my black leather Hugo Boss boots, Toteme leather coat, Magda Butrym jacket, Levi’s shorts, and a cashmere sweater.
Afternoons
What’s your favorite type of cuisine?
I’m crazy about Israeli and Mexican cuisine. Food is the most important aspect when I choose my holiday destination. My last trip to Mexico was full of amazing culinary experiences, and as we were shooting at a food market and I had the chance to try all the local delicacies.
What do you like the most about your job?
I’m passionate and obsessive about what I do. Many times I don’t even realize I’m working, as my job is my hobby and passion in one. Day by day I’m surrounded by amazing people with beautiful objects and clothes in fantastic places. This is what makes my work so unique.
Working with talented Polish photographers, set designers, hairdressers and make-up artists was always my life goal. I aim to support the Polish industry as much as I can.
How has living in Warsaw influenced your work?
Warsaw is a city of history witnessing great evolution even today—we need to know its story to understand it better. Working in the fashion industry in Poland is not a piece of cake, it’s constantly challenging, this is what makes it so satisfying and motivating when something great comes together. The Polish landscape is also amazing, so when the weather allows us to, I often use it as the backdrop for our shoots.
Evenings
What counts as a classic night-out for you in Warsaw?
I prefer staying at home to going out. I love cooking and having a great time with friends.
What is your unmissable evening ritual?
Spa moments at home: a long, hot bath, great music, and wine.
Hot Spots
Places to have fun
Regina – Koszykowa 1. 00-564 Warsaw, Poland
Paloma Inn Bar – Hoża 58. 00-682 Warsaw, Poland
alewino– Mokotowska 48. 00-543 Warsaw, Poland
Inspiring places
Polin Museum – Museum of the History of Polish Jews – Mordechaja Anielewicza 6. 00-157 Warsaw, Poland
Zachęta – National Gallery of Art – plac Stanisława Małachowskiego 3. 00-916 Warsaw, Poland
Koszyki – Koszykowa 63. 00-667 Warsaw, Poland
The best coffee in town
Cafe Stor – Tamka 33. 00-355 Warsaw, Poland
Bristol Hotel – Krakowskie Przedmieście 42/44. 00-325 Warsaw, Poland
Relaks – Puławska 48. 00-999 Warsaw, Poland
Perfect weekend spots
Wozownia Bar – Nowy Świat 1. 00-496 Warsaw , Poland
Łazienki Park – Warsaw, Poland
Jassmine – Nobu Hotel Warsaw – Wilcza 73 00-670 Warsaw, Poland
Insider tips
Koło Bazaar – Obozowa 99. 01-433 Warsaw, Poland
Galilu – Mokotowska 63. 00-533 Warsaw, Poland
jagg. – Mokotowska 28. 00-558 Warsaw, Poland
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