I live a very different life now, with incredible privileges, but looking back I realise that growing up in Russia gave me tools that other people don't necessarily have - such as the will to push that bit further, to make things happen, to succeed.

Moscow is a huge inspiration for me. I love what I find here, I love being here.

The best part of work is always working with people and getting to know them and having the sense that you're not actually working.

Before I left Russia in 1999, I was living in a very poor factory town with my family and friends, and nothing was ever going to change.

I love Yves Saint Laurent and Giambattista Valli and Givenchy and I get given quite a lot, but perhaps nothing is as wonderful as the white fake leather trench coat I got when I was 15.

The people that live in my hometown do not walk along the street with smiles on their faces. It is a desperate place, but I got out.

When I really treat myself, I go to incredible Leonor Greyl in Paris for a head massage.