Miriam Mattova, a distinguished fashion icon with a PhD in political science, shares her unique journey from beauty pageants to the international fashion stage. Deeply rooted in her Jewish heritage and driven by a passion for social activism, Miriam reflects on how the evolving fashion industry intersects with her intellectual pursuits and personal values.
Harper’s Bazaar (HBZVN): Miriam, your modelling career began with a beauty pageant, but now you are a fashion icon with a PhD in political science. How has your view of the fashion industry changed since you first stepped onto the catwalk?
MIRIAM MATTOVA: Thank you, Harper’s Bazaar, for the compliment; I am truly humbled. My view of the fashion industry hasn’t really changed, as I still love every aspect of it. However, the industry itself has evolved. I have transitioned from a girl into a woman, which has shaped me into who I am today. I have matured emotionally, strengthening my core values and beliefs, and I have also become much more independent and responsible in my career and lifestyle choices.
The most significant change I see in the fashion industry is the integration of technology. The use of technology, especially social media, has transformed many aspects of fashion. Social media has greatly influenced the industry. Influencers and everyday users now play a significant role in shaping trends, shifting power away from traditional advertising.
Social media has a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole, with both positive and negative effects. This has greatly impacted the way I can communicate information and raise awareness about antisemitism, which is affecting the entire world. I use social media as a platform to build a community based on shared values and interests, where I can offer support and a sense of belonging to those affected by antisemitism. Being a part of Israel Friends allows me to connect with like-minded individuals who are committed to combating hate and promoting understanding. Through Israel Friends, we work to empower and educate people about the realities of antisemitism, providing them with the tools and support they need to stand strong against it.
Unfortunately, while I view the technological changes as a positive development, I also see a significant downside. Sometimes, I wish social media didn’t have such a powerful influence on our lives because the rapid spread of misinformation and polarization can create challenges for people trying to discern credible sources. This is why, at Israel Friends, we are dedicated to providing accurate information and fostering a community that values truth and empathy. Our goal is to counteract the negative effects of misinformation by promoting informed dialogue and supporting those impacted by these challenges.
HBZVN: Fashion is often seen as an external expression of a person’s inner world. There is also an opposing perspective: fashion has the power to change our deepest selves. What role do you think fashion plays in shaping personal style and expressing individuality? How does your personal style reflect your intellectual and spiritual values?
MIRIAM MATTOVA: I think fashion plays a crucial role in shaping everyone’s personal style and expressing individuality. Fashion allows individuals to convey their personality, and I often think that style can reflect someone’s cultural background and interests. I believe that wearing clothes that make a person feel good about themselves can significantly enhance their confidence.
My personal style is a reflection of my values. I believe my minimalist style reflects my simplicity and focus on what truly matters in my life. I also love symbolic items, particularly my Star of David necklace, which was a gift from my mother. It shows my deep connection to and spirituality with my Jewish roots.
HBZVN: Family traditions and the cultural heritage of your ancestors are of great importance to you. Does your Jewish identity influence your fashion choices?
MIRIAM MATTOVA: Family traditions truly play a significant role in shaping my individual identity, including my fashion choices. As I mentioned earlier, the Star of David is part of my everyday wardrobe, and I can also say it offers me protection.
In my everyday life, I dress modestly, which ties back to the values stemming from my Jewish traditions. I personally believe that less is more, where minimalist fashion often features clean lines and tailored silhouettes, creating a sophisticated look that is timeless and versatile. I believe that investing in classic silhouettes and timeless designs enables me to build a style that transcends seasonal trends, ensuring longevity in my fashion choices.
HBZVN: We see in you a rare treasure – beauty and intellect combined in one person. How would you define your unique position in the world of fashion and beauty? In your opinion, what qualities make you stand out among other models and public figures?
MIRIAM MATTOVA: These compliments mean the world, Harper’s Bazaar!
Defining my unique position in the world of fashion and beauty involves several aspects. My signature style as a Jewish model from a small country contributes to my brand. My Jewish heritage allows me to celebrate diversity and enrich the narrative behind my brand. Not only does my heritage play a role, but my experience with antisemitism also emphasizes the importance of sharing my personal experiences to impact and help others facing similar challenges.
Growing up in a small country and being a Jewish model have provided me with experiences and viewpoints that differ from those of models from larger, more cosmopolitan backgrounds. I believe that models from smaller countries may develop a sense of adaptability and resilience, which can be beneficial in the competitive and fast-paced fashion industry. As a Jewish model from a small country, I hope to serve as a role model for young people from similar backgrounds, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and embrace their identity and diversity with pride.
Representing a diverse cultural background helps to challenge stereotypes within the fashion industry, fostering a more inclusive environment. A strong connection to Jewish identity and heritage, in my case, leads to a commitment to cultural preservation, community engagement, and advocacy for social causes, all of which can enhance my public persona as a model. Lastly, emphasizing Jewish values such as tikkun olam (repairing the world) can inspire activism in social issues, making my presence in the industry more impactful.
HBZVN: If you were to create your own clothing line as a designer, what would it be like? What ideas and principles would you want to convey through your collection?
MIRIAM MATTOVA: I don’t think I would create my own clothing line; I’ll leave that to the amazing talents I work with, like Adam X Atelier or Stephan Caras. However, my dream has always been to publish a children’s book. I’ve already written it, but I’m waiting for the right time to publish it.
I hope that one day this book will impact many children, empowering them to become the best versions of themselves and helping to make the world a better place. As this is my secret project, I cannot disclose more information at this time.
HBZVN: How do you see the fashion industry developing in the coming years? What changes do you think are in store for models and designers?
MIRIAM MATTOVA: The fashion industry is evolving rapidly, influenced by technology, changing consumer preferences, and increasing awareness of social and environmental issues. The rise of digital and virtual fashion has brought many advancements, but it’s also somewhat unsettling to me because of its negative effects on social and interpersonal skills. The internet and social media platforms, where fashion is increasingly centred, can diminish the depth of peer relationships. Relying heavily on text messaging and social media for communication can lead to a decline in verbal and non-verbal communication skills, making it challenging for the next generation to engage effectively in face-to-face conversations.
The constant exposure to fashion trends and opinions online can exacerbate social anxiety, as individuals may worry about being judged based on their appearance or style choices. This can result in spending excessive time engaging with fashion content online, leading to social isolation and reducing opportunities to build and maintain friendships and connections outside the digital sphere.
On the other hand, there is a stronger emphasis on diversity and representation within the fashion industry, both in terms of models and designers, which I love to see. The way brands represent models with different ethnic and religious backgrounds encourages inclusivity and discourages discrimination based on religion.
Another great positive is that with the rise of influencer culture, brands will increasingly focus on creating content for media platforms, which will give me a larger platform to reach more people with the causes I stand strongly for.
Designer: Adam X of Adam X Atelier @adamxatelier.
Shoes: @brandedbymolly.
Photographed by: Alex Lam @joypix_alex.
Creative Direction and Styling: Mac Intia @mac.intia.
Hair & Make up: Cath Yong @catyongfolio
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
