Against piano chords echoing through the depths of an industrial printing factory, model Kasia Struss smolders in this neo-noir film by director Hugh Lippe. Having honed her skills working with the likes of Steven Meisel, Mert & Marcus and Craig McDean, Struss found that translating her talents to film came instinctively. “Modeling requires me to constantly be aware of every movement in front of the camera,” she says. “Film is more like dancing––it’s more of a fluid kind of motion.” Discovered while still at high school in her native Ciechanów, Poland, Struss has walked for Christian Dior, Gucci and Marc Jacobs, and fronted campaigns for Jil Sander and Miu Miu. NOWNESS caught up with Struss in Paris to discover her most frequented haunts and show season essentials.

What essentials do you pack in your bag each morning before heading off for a show? 
My bag is pretty heavy those days. I'm carrying a blackberry, The Magus by John Fowles, makeup remover, powder, a camera and mascara.

Having worked with the industry’s leading hair and makeup artists, what are some of the best beauty tips you’ve picked up along the way?
Everything I know about makeup I've learned backstage. My favorite tips are how to make my lips bigger with lighter contour and how to shape my face with shadows.

How do you keep your energy levels up when running between shows, fittings and castings?
A big breakfast in the morning and the positive people I meet on my day give me energy.

How do you like to spend your rare free time in Paris during show season?
Walking around, hanging at the little cafés with my friends, and going to see fun shows at [celebrated cabaret venue] The Crazy Horse.

Models have a lot of waiting around between hair, makeup and showtime. What are your essential companions to pass the time? 
Luckily I have many friends backstage so I'm never really bored. When I am alone for late night fittings a book or iPod is necessary.

What are some of the best spots you’ve discovered in Paris?
I really always try to go to L'Eclaireur on Rue Herold, it is such a special, eclectic store; Alaia; and of course the antique market where you can find the most amazing furniture.