It's better to be skinny than to be fat.
I live a very different life now, with incredible privileges, but looking back I realise that growing up in Russia gave me tools that other people don't necessarily have - such as the will to push that bit further, to make things happen, to succeed.
We all have our own purpose in life and I feel very strongly that I have a bigger purpose than giving to just my immediate family and friends.
Because of my childhood where I was constantly by myself, I always feel lonely. I have a lot of people that I absolutely love and I know love me but I can't get rid of that feeling of loneliness no matter who I'm with - even with my children.
My appearance gave me access to a particular kind of world and I'm really grateful for it.
The big contracts go to the girls who are healthy - they need to have a sparkle in their eyes and you can't fake that if you're unhealthy.
When I was a teenager, I remember I wanted to put so much makeup on - it was just a natural thing over there. Why they do it, I guess, is because historically, there were twice as many women as there were men after the World War II.
I don't mind being called Supernova. If one nickname is going to stick, that's not a bad one!
You cannot leave the house to take the garbage out without full-on makeup and your hair done. You have to fight for your man out there.
I love Yves Saint Laurent and Giambattista Valli and Givenchy and I get given quite a lot, but perhaps nothing is as wonderful as the white fake leather trench coat I got when I was 15.
Writing down goals makes you think of what is achievable. It really makes you reflect on what you are today.
If you never know hardship, you can't really support people around you.
The best part of work is always working with people and getting to know them and having the sense that you're not actually working.
When I really treat myself, I go to incredible Leonor Greyl in Paris for a head massage.
I don't want to have strong arms, like you get from Pilates or yoga. But dancing arms become your best accessory. And it's great for your core muscles.
I wear fragrance when I feel that just makeup is not enough. I'm not someone who uses it daily, but when I do, I feel so proud that I remembered and almost like I treated myself because I work really hard.
I know what it's like not to have food in the fridge or money to buy more.
I completely admire my mother for raising a child with cerebral palsy at home.
Keeping up with everything I do requires some sacrifices, but once and a while I need to take some time to myself.
Before I left Russia in 1999, I was living in a very poor factory town with my family and friends, and nothing was ever going to change.
I missed quite a lot of school because I was working from the age of 11.
Sometimes I just need to switch off.
My childhood gave me resilience - and there's little that can surprise me in life.
If you are ambitious you can have a moment of glory but it will most likely be temporary. But talent always finds its way out.
I think protecting your family and giving to them is so important. It’s the most important achievement.
