Latvian supermodel Karlina Caune has fronted campaigns for Tom Ford, Giorgio Armani, and Céline, in addition to gracing the covers of numerous editions of Elle magazine. Not one to rest on her laurels, the fiercely ambitious mother of two is more determined than ever to transcend the stereotype of being “just another pretty face” and to inspire her daughters to seek purpose in their lives.

You were born in Riga and have spoken about growing up with “incredible patriotism.” How did that national pride shape your identity long before fashion entered the picture?

I think, for me, it all started with the culture—the way most Latvians are raised. We grow up close to nature, learning about our mythology, singing the songs of our ancestors, and being proudly taught about the beauty of our little country. Historically, Latvians have been occupied by various nations, yet have always maintained a rebellious spirit—not to give up or succumb. I think that’s where I align with my own identity.

With a father and grandfather who served in the Soviet military—and an uncle who became Latvia’s Minister of Defense (as well as Prime Minister and Finance Minister)—duty and discipline seem embedded in your family story. How has that legacy influenced your work ethic in modelling?

They served in the Soviet Army, and their deployment was mandatory. The historical background of the occupation years really matters, because while they would have willingly enlisted to protect the sovereignty of their country, that wasn’t the case at the time. I think the real influence has been our family values. I was raised to always give my best—no matter the task or job. It’s how you respect yourself and how you build yourself into a solid person. I think this is the reason I’ve managed to maintain my reputation and continue working after 16 years.

Modeling often requires constant travel and reinvention. How do you stay grounded in your Latvian roots while navigating an international career?

To be fair, I don’t. Somewhere around the time I had my children, I felt deeply hurt by Latvian politics and how I was treated—discarded, it seemed, simply because I married a Swedish national and chose to raise my children in Sweden. Since then, I sometimes say I’m not Latvian—I’m a Latvian passport holder. It’s a bitter feeling at times, because I remember how proud I used to be to say, “I’m Latvian,” and now that pride has been replaced with something more complicated.

You’re a mother of two. How has motherhood changed your relationship to beauty, ambition, and the pace of the fashion industry?

This is a wonderful question. Since becoming a mother to my daughters, I haven’t slowed down—in fact, I feel like my ambition has grown. Part of that comes from wanting to challenge the stereotype of being “just a pretty face” or a model. I want to be more and do more, so my daughters grow up with a role model who represents not only beauty and magazine covers, but also purpose. They know I love my work—I truly do—but creating new paths along the way and showing them that life isn’t linear is what makes me most proud.

The fashion world can be demanding physically and mentally. As someone deeply into wellness, what are your non-negotiable daily rituals for maintaining balance?

I try to keep my physical shape in top condition—working out four to five times a week and making sure I get in 10,000 steps a day. I cook good, nourishing food. I’ve also recently started adding NAD+ supplements, which have really improved my endurance. But when it comes to balance, the most important thing is listening to your body. If I’m feeling drained or exhausted, I allow myself to rest—as much as that’s possible with two kids—and maybe step away from emails for a few days. Taking time to ground myself is essential.

Campaign imagery often projects confidence and perfection. How do you reconcile that polished public image with the more vulnerable, real parts of yourself?

It’s actually very simple. I’ve drawn a very clear line between work and real life. For example, I rarely wear makeup outside of work or social events. By doing that, I always see myself as I truly am. Waking up and not feeling like I need something on my face to look okay is incredibly freeing. Don’t get me wrong—I still have moments of “I look tired” or “I’m puffy”—but I allow myself to be human.

Looking back at the young girl in Riga with big dreams and fierce patriotism, what would you tell her now about identity, resilience, and what truly defines success?

Hard work and integrity. Stay true to your values, and don’t ever let anyone diminish your kindness. The most important approval you need is your own.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I think people might be surprised to know that I’m actually quite a softie. I’m not as tough and confident as I may seem. But as I always like to say, “Dress for the job you want, not for the one you have”—and I think that’s pretty spot on.

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Represented by Marilyn NY