My London: Elsa Hosk
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Where do you stay in London?
I always stayed at Chiltern Firehouse. I’m sad it’s closed after the fire. When I first started dating my fiancé Tom, who’s from England, I would come to London and we’d stay together. We’d put on the fire, make hot chocolate, roast marshmallows and watch movies. It felt cosy and romantic. The last time I was in London though, I stayed at Claridge’s, which is a different vibe, but equally special.
What was your first job in London?
The first time I came to London for work was for American Teen Vogue. We shot a fashion story around all the iconic landmarks, so I got to see the city in a really fun way. We photographed double-decker buses and everywhere from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace. I remember being surprised by English humour because it was so dry.
Where would you recommend for a first date?
Tom once took me on a picnic in Hyde Park. He picked up a spread from the Selfridges Food Hall and it was simple but really lovely. A picnic is always a great first date.
Which London shops do you rely on?
I love Selfridges, Harrods, Liberty and Dover Street Market. London has some of the best shopping in the world. You can find almost anything you’re looking for — and things you’re not looking for as well. There is also iconic vintage shopping. I love browsing Portobello Market.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
Turn a huge section of the city into one giant pedestrian zone for the day. No cars, just people walking, cycling, picnicking, shopping, meeting and enjoying the city.
Who is the most iconic Londoner?
Kate Moss or Queen Elizabeth II.
What’s the best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?
A cabbie saying, “Where are we off to, love?” never gets old. It’s so endearing.
Have you ever had a run-in with a police officer?
Once I got into a car with a famous race car driver. It was a two-seater and somehow my friend and I ended up squeezed into the back while he was speeding through the city. I’m not really sure where we were going, but I’m pretty sure there was some sort of a chase involved at some point. Luckily, we didn’t get caught!
Where do you let your hair down?
To be honest, I haven’t gone out much in London. I stopped drinking when I was 19, so I missed the club scene. But I always loved the bar at Chiltern Firehouse. That’s probably where I’d stay out late.
What’s your London secret?
Honestly, just walking. Some of my favourite days in London have been spent wandering without a plan and discovering beautiful streets, little cafés and shops I would never have found otherwise.
What are you up to for work?
I’ve just had a baby so modelling is a little quieter right now, but I’ve still been busy. I’m about to launch the next collection for Helsa and am currently styling and planning the campaign shoot, which is one of my favourite parts of having a brand. I’ve also been working with London-based SPF brand SunsolveMD. They make products I use and believe in.
What do you collect?
I’m a collector of many things. I tend to get obsessed with something and then want every version of it, the rarest version, the most important version. For me, the hunt is the best part. I mainly collect furniture and design pieces by Charlotte Perriand, Jean Prouvé, Georges Jouve and Jean Royère. But also books, fashion and records.
What’s your biggest extravagance?
Collecting rare furniture. Most people probably wouldn’t look twice at some of the pieces I get excited about, but if you know, you know. I’m obsessed with auctions.
What’s your favourite place for beauty?
I love Teresa Tarmey. She’s lovely, incredibly knowledgeable and really understands skin. I also love Keren Bartov; she has the most beautiful salon and her products are great.
When you’re in need of headspace, where in London do you go?
Hyde Park. There is something about being surrounded by nature in the middle of such a busy city that instantly helps me reset.
As told to Rose Beer