Unrendered interview with Vitoria Mota

Vitória Mota is a Portuguese model whose career has rapidly expanded across the international fashion scene. From major runways to striking editorial work, she is known for a presence that feels both powerful and refined, effortlessly adapting to different creative worlds.

Having walked at Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks for some of fashion’s most respected houses, and fronted campaigns for global brands, Vitória continues to build a body of work defined by versatility, precision, and strong visual storytelling. As her international presence grows, we sit down with Vitória to talk about her journey so far.

Blazer, Victor&Rolf. Dress, Marithé + François Girbaud.

Vitória, your career spans major fashion weeks in Paris and Milan, as well as work with iconic designers like Akris and Giorgio Armani. What has been the most memorable moment of your runway experience so far?

The most memorable moment in my runway career so far was opening the Empório Armani show shortly after Mr. Giorgio Armani’s passing. It was emotional. It was more than just a show, it was a tribute and I felt so much love within the people and the brand. To be chosen to open was an honor I’ll never forget. I walked not just with pride, but with love and gratitude for everything his legacy represents.

Dress, Mestre Studio. Mongolian Lamb Coat, vintage. Sunglasses, Bottega Veneta. Boots, Hunter.

You’ve walked for some of the most avant-garde and couture houses, including Armani Privé, Maison Margiela, and Ashi Studio. How do you adapt your style and presence to match the unique aesthetic of each brand?

One of the things I love most about fashion is the chance to embody different characters and explore those versions within myself. It’s like acting, but without words. Every time there’s a story to tell, I feel like I get to live a different narrative of my life in that present moment. I imagine a story in my mind and forget the world around me. It’s just me and the photographer capturing the moment.

Your campaign work includes prestigious brands such as Philipp Plein, Mac Cosmetics, and AllSaints. Which of these collaborations meant the most to you personally, and why?

It’s always an honor to be chosen as the face of a worldwide campaign. It always feels like a dream come true. Every collaboration is a unique experience, and I approach each one with gratitude and excitement. Each of them has helped me grow not only as a model, but also inspired me and opened my horizons creatively and culturally.

As a Portuguese model based in Lisbon, how do you think your cultural background influences your work in the global fashion industry? Do you bring any unique perspective to the runway or editorial shoots?

Being Portuguese and based in Lisbon gives me a grounded, soulful perspective. Our culture has a quiet strength and deep emotion, which I carry with me into every job I book. I think it adds sincerity and depth to how I express and carry myself. Lisbon’s mix of tradition and creativity has really shaped my eye for beauty and storytelling.

What motivates you to continually push boundaries in your career — whether it’s taking on new designers, exploring different fashion genres, or expanding your portfolio?

I feel like there are so many different Vitórias inside of me, just waiting to be explored, and for me that’s one of the most exciting things about this job. Every new designer, shoot, or show gives me the chance to tap into a new version of myself. I see fashion as a journey of self-expansion through creativity. I love a challenge — that’s what I’m here for.

Versatility is one of your strongest assets, from high fashion to commercial campaigns. How do you maintain a strong visual identity while being so adaptable?

I love to adapt and to change. That’s both one of my greatest strengths and, at times, one of my challenges in life. I can’t be the same every day, and I can’t do the same thing over and over. I’m always moving, evolving, shifting — that’s just my nature. In modeling, that constant evolution becomes an asset. I bring that fluidity to every project, but at the core, there’s always a thread of authenticity that ties it all together. That’s what gives my work versatility without losing identity.

Bracelets, Tous.

The fashion industry can be intense and fast-paced. What are your go-to strategies for staying focused, energized, and mentally resilient during back-to-back shoots or fashion weeks?

I sleep as much as I can, eat well, stay hydrated, and take my vitamins daily — that’s essential for me. When it comes to mental health, staying positive and having a strong support system makes a big difference. I always carry a good book to read while waiting and try to reduce my time on social media. I’ve learned not to leak energy unnecessarily; protecting my peace is key. I also bike almost everywhere, which helps me unwind and feel free, especially during busy times. And of course, cuddling with my cat Serafim is one of my favorite ways to recharge and clear the vibes.

Looking back on your journey, is there a particular challenge or setback that ultimately strengthened your career or personal growth as a model?

One of the biggest turning points in my journey was learning that rejection wasn’t personal. It wasn’t about me or my worth, but simply about what a client or casting director was looking for in that specific moment. Realizing that truly set my soul free. It lifted the sadness and fear I had been carrying — the fear of not being good enough. That’s when everything started to shift for me. That’s when I really began to own who I am, to show up fully as myself, and to trust that the right opportunities will always align when I’m being true to myself.

Cashmere coat, Chanel. Dress, Maison Margiela.

With global agency representation, you’re one of the most compelling Portuguese faces on the international fashion stage. How do you balance staying true to your roots while embracing the cosmopolitan nature of the fashion world?

Being Portuguese grounds me — it shaped my essence and the emotion I bring to my work. But working globally has expanded me. I don’t see it as a conflict, but as a beautiful balance between where I come from and where I’m going. Even though I’m proudly Portuguese, I feel like a citizen of the world. Every culture I encounter reveals a new part of myself.

Blazer, vintage Thierry Mugler. Shorts, stylist own. Boots, Hunter.

What’s next for Vitória Mota? Are there any dream collaborations, fashion houses, or projects you’re aspiring to work with in the near future? And what message would you like to share with aspiring models who look up to you?

There’s still so much I want to explore. I’d love to collaborate with houses like Saint Laurent, Alaïa, or Schiaparelli. I want to keep pushing my boundaries and discovering new parts of myself. I would also love to try acting and to create a clothing line in the future.

To aspiring models, I’d say: don’t be afraid to be yourself. There’s so much beauty in individuality. Stay grounded, protect your energy, and trust that what’s meant for you will find you — especially when you’re authentic.

Men sweater, vintage. Bag used as belt, Pinko.

Model: Vitoria Mota

Styling: Maria Nobre

Make-up & Hair: Raquel Soeiro

Photography, Concept, Production : Irina Bom

Photography assistant: Yelena da Silva

Photograpy assistant: Pedro Matos

PR: Valentina Gurova @valentinagurova, the head of PR Aliyans Media Group @pr_aliyans & Cory Tran @corycoutureproductions