We caught up with model and archaeologist, Terry Madenholm, to discuss everything from her passion for archaeology to her beauty secrets and everything in between – bags and shoes included.

 

What’s the best thing about being an archaeologist and a model?

Taking part in surveys and excavations, which often take place in remote areas and under challenging conditions. I enjoy the feeling of being away from the rest of the world. The only thing that matters is the past, which I want to uncover. As for modelling, I love the social aspect of it. One constantly meets creative and interesting people.

But, why did you choose archaeology for your career?

Because of the contact with the past, since always gets my heart racing.

Which supermodels did you look up to when you first started your modeling career?

My knowledge of ‘supermodels’ at the time was and still is very limited. The only model I can say I admire is my mum. She did prestigious campaigns and probably is the only person in the whole history of fashion to give up the French cover of Vogue to pursue a different career.

 

You did campaigns for L’Oréal, Garnier, Lancaster, Clarins, Vichy, L’Occitane, to name just a few. Did working with the biggest beauty brands give you an insight into skin care? Do you have a beauty regime?

For me, the most important thing is to let the skin breathe. In addition to routine cleansing in the morning and evening, I also try to clean my skin during the day given all the pollution. I avoid washing my face with tap water and use mineral water or Eau thermal instead. I also avoid wearing makeup on a normal day. The second thing is good hydration – creams and water. I also apply masks, especially the hydrating ones, and at this stage, I tend to focus on natural products.

What is your exercise regime?

I associate sport with pleasure rather than a regime. I like all sorts of physical activities and I practice them depending on my desire. I don’t torment my body. The best exercise for me is tennis. I never get bored of it, and I don’t think about it in the same way as training at the gym with a clock in mind. I also walk everywhere I can.

Let’s talk about fashion. How would you describe your personal style?

I dress comfortably on daily basis. I like jeans and loose dresses. The fabric is very important to me, I don’t like synthetics. When it comes to style, I think the French style is the closest to me.

So, are you a shoe girl or a bag girl?

I have a tendency to buy a few pairs of the same model of shoes, but when it comes to handbags, I like diversity. A handbag is a dispensable accessory, but nevertheless one I can’t do without. There is a very emotional relationship between me and my bag.

Do you remember, what was your first major fashion purchase?

Stilettos from Dior. Uncomfortable, way too high, but beautiful.

In what do you feel the most confident and sexy?

Clothing doesn’t play as much of a role as make-up. I can be without clothes, but the right makeup makes me feel sexy.

What’s your body approach?

I don’t think it’s necessary to love your body, as some declare with exaltation, I mean, the body positive movement, but one should take care of it in a reasonable way and treat it with respect.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

I received an advice from dad to “Never love anyone who treats you like you’re ordinary”—Oscar Wilde.