Last year Portuguese model Sara Sampaio (Models 1 Women) was, not surprisingly, snapped up by global lingerie phenomenon Victoria’s Secret, and has been shooting with them ever since. Top this off with an impressive selection of magazine covers and campaigns, at just 21 she has become one of the most sought-after models in the world. On a brief visit to the UK, we caught up with her…

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How did you get into modelling?

I was scouted in Portugal and signed to my mother agency there.

What has been your favourite job so far as a model?

The best jobs are when you get to travel. I was shooting with Elle Italia recently and got to go to Hawaii, I just fell in love with it. I was there for four days and got to shoot all around the islands.

How do you relax when you’re not working?

For holidays, I tend to gravitate towards hot places. Every time I get a few days off I like to go home to my parents and my mum’s food! It’s just lovely being home and having someone take care of you. I also like to just chill out, watch TV and hang with friends.

What are your best and worst attributes?

I think my best is that I’m focussed, I go after something and don’t stop until I’ve got it. My worst is probably that I’m really stubborn-so it works both ways!

You’ve been working with Victoria’s Secret for a little while now. Tell us about that?

I started with them about a year and a half ago and I’ve been regularly shooting with them since February. It was my first day in New York, I was visiting lots of different agencies and my mother agency sent my pictures to VS, and the next day I was shooting with them. The shoots are mainly in their studio in New York but for swimwear I’ve been able to travel to Miami and the Caribbean, and next week we’re going to Mexico.  They are an amazing brand to shoot with, I always have a lot of fun. It’s like a family.

What’s top of your bucket list?

Professionally, I would love to get a beauty campaign or to be on the cover of French Vogue-the best of the best! Personally, I would love to find a great guy, get married and live in Hawaii with babies and dogs.

Describe a typical day?

It depends. There are a lot of different normal days. If I have a lot of castings then I’ll walk my puppy, Luigi, and then head off to the castings. I’ll often have lunch with friends and head to the gym in the evening. I tend to have a lot of free time.

How would you describe your style?

Modelling has changed my style, especially in the last year and a half. I used to not care, I just wore really simple things. Some days I dress more classic, and other days I like to be a little grungier. If I’m going out, I’ll wear a sexy dress, but usually it’s just black jeans, a top and a nice jacket.

Who would be your ultimate dinner date?

Ian Somerhalder. He’s hot! I’d probably not say anything to him, just sit and stare in awe.

Contact katy@models1.co.uk