Lila Moss on Catwalks, Sarong Season, and Designing Her Own Barbie

      Recently, Lila Moss reshared a nostalgic photo on Instagram that she frequently mentions in interviews. In the image, she is frowning while wearing a small fur coat, with her mother, Kate Moss, holding her hand. It's the type of picture one would want to show friends, even if it weren't a well-known paparazzi shot. It captures a sweet and humorous mommy-and-me moment. She has spoken in interviews about always feeling protective of her mother and adapting quickly to the experience of having cameras flash unexpectedly in her face. However, during our Zoom call from the Kate Moss Agency office in London, Moss is not frowning; instead, she appears cheerful and soft-spoken. Having grown up around paparazzi, she seems undisturbed and bright, eager to talk about her own career path. At just 23 years old, Moss has already appeared on the cover of British Vogue, starred in a beauty campaign for Marc Jacobs, and walked the runway for brands like Coperni, Versace, Miu Miu, and Victoria's Secret. She shares her journey with nearly 900,000 Instagram followers, using witty captions that reflect the laid-back spirit typical of her generation. In a recent post from Coachella, she enthusiastically wrote, "Time of my life!!!!"

      During our conversation, Moss conveys genuine excitement rather than indifference, and her tone reflects that enthusiasm. Growing up in fashion, she always had a sense she might follow in her mother’s footsteps, even though she initially hesitated. Now, she feels fortunate to be part of the bustling environment backstage at shows or on set during photoshoots. She is also leveraging her platform to support causes that matter to her, often photographed wearing her type 1 diabetes technology. Moss shared her thoughts on the designer who inspired her to pursue modeling, the lessons she's learned from her mother, and her involvement in creating the first-ever diabetic Barbie.

      I’m curious about how you decided to pursue modeling. What was that moment like? My first modeling opportunity came when Marc Jacobs approached me for his beauty campaign. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I loved being on set and watching everything come together. It immediately sparked my excitement to do more. So, in this situation, Marc Jacobs was like a fairy godmother! After that campaign, did you start thinking, "Okay, I could make this my full-time career"? Absolutely! After that, more opportunities came my way, and it was my first experience feeling comfortable on set and realizing I wanted to pursue this.

      Did you always feel drawn to the fashion world, or did you ever consider other paths? I've always been interested in fashion, wearing my mom's shoes and staging mock runways. However, it wasn’t something my mom actively encouraged. But after working with Marc Jacobs, I felt safe and comfortable, which made it seem more achievable. At that time, I hadn't contemplated what else I might do; it just landed in my lap, and I embraced it. I believe I would have pursued something creative or fashion-related anyway.

      You mentioned enjoying fashion and playing in your mom's closet. When you began your modeling journey, did she offer you any advice or guidance? I’ve learned so much just by observing my mom; she has an incredible work ethic, always staying as long as needed to get the perfect shot. That dedication has definitely inspired me.

      Fashion has changed drastically as we approach 2026, and nostalgia is a major theme. Many people are reminiscing about styles from the '90s, 2000s, and even 2016. As a Gen Z model, what excites you about fashion? It’s been exciting to witness the revival of 2010s fashion. Military jackets are back on the runway! The 7 for All Mankind show for Fall 2026 really embraced that style, which was significant to me. When I was around 10 or 11, I admired the Isabel Marant wedge shoes paired with skinny jeans, so it’s fun to see those styles return as I navigate my fashion journey at 23.

      Though your career is just beginning, you’ve already experienced a variety of roles from beauty campaigns to runway shows to cover shoots. What are some of your standout moments thus far? A highlight for me was shooting with Steven Meisel for my first British Vogue cover. Pat McGrath and Guido Palau handled hair and makeup—people I've known my whole life—which made it very emotional. I was thrilled by the styling and references involved; those two days were special and surreal, and I can still picture it vividly.

      Do you prepare differently for various types of shoots? A runway show feels distinct from a cover shoot. How do you mentally prepare, or do you maintain a similar approach across the board? I generally adopt a consistent mindset of staying grounded before any shoot, aiming to remain calm and present.

      Having grown up with fashion as a significant part of your life, how has your