Kudibal Portraits: Jacqueline and Clara Svane

KUDIBAL PORTRAITS

Jacqueline & Clara Svane

We believe in the power of shared wisdom to support and up-lift one another. KUDIBAL PORTRAITS is an interview and photo series by our founder, Dea Kudibal, featuring remarkable women we meet.

Mother-daughter team, Jacqueline and Clara Svane, blend experience and fresh thinking in the fashion industry. With years of nurturing talent, Jacqueline brings wisdom to the table, while Clara adds a forward-thinking approach centred on inclusivity.

Jacqueline is wearing OliviaDEA jacket in Serpentine Gold and ArielDEA trousers in Black

Clara is wearing CorsiDEA top in Black and MikoDEA trousers in Black

How did your journey in founding your own modelling agencies begin?

Clara: I started Swan Scouting Agency to promote diversity in the fashion world. After working as a modelling agent in London, I noticed a need to represent overlooked women – curvy, mid-size, plus-size, and hijab-wearing models. My goal is to challenge beauty standards and create a platform for minorities.

Jacqueline: I am the CEO of Unique Models. I began in the fashion industry in the ’80s and have witnessed its evolution since. Earlier the ideals were very narrow, but thankfully, there’s more focus on diversity now. Clara has brought fresh energy and new perspectives, and I’m incredibly proud of her commitment.

How does your mother-daughter relationship influence the way you work?

Jacqueline: We respect each other’s differences and have found a great balance. Clara is passionate and driven, and we’ve learned so much from each other. It’s been important to keep our businesses separate so Clara can stand on her own two feet.

Clara: Creating my own agency has been vital for me. My mums hard work inspires me, but for myself, I’ve chosen a career with more flexibility and balance, including a slower pace of work.

Jacqueline is wearing OliviaDEA jacket in Serpentine Gold and ArielDEA trousers in Black

Clara is wearing CristobelliDEA blazer in Black Gold, CorsiDEA top in Black and MikoDEA trousers in Black

From your years of mentoring models, what advice would you give to women struggling with self-esteem and beauty standards?

Clara: Take up dancing! Movement can help you connect with your body and embrace your feminine energy. Find joy in communities where you can be your authentic self.

Jacqueline:Personality is everything. While looks and mesurement matter for models even today – more and more it is about charisma or passion you have in you.

Jacqueline, what advice do you wish your mother had given you, and that you now pass on to Clara?

Jacqueline: I wish I’d learned to share my feelings earlier. That’s something I’ve worked on passing to Clara – perhaps a bit too well! Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings. Dare to be vulnerable and not fear failure – mistakes are how we grow.

Clara: So true! I feel like I can share everything with my mum, and that’s been such a gift.

Jacqueline is wearing AlbertaDEA blazer in Imperial and RihannaDEA trousers in Imperial
Clara is wearing DaisyDEA silk top in Champagne and RicaDEA trousers in Black

How does your family celebrate Christmas?

Jacqueline: We love Christmas! We get together for baking days and festive dinners. On Christmas Eve, we celebrate at my eldest daughter’s home, which she beautifully decorates and fills with delicious food.

Clara: Christmas for us is all about togetherness and making the season special – through both traditions and quality time.

Who borrows more from the other’s wardrobe?

Clara: That’s me! I borrow my mum’s clothes all the time, although some pieces end up staying with me.

Jacqueline: I don’t mind – I think it’s lovely!

Jacqueline is wearing RihannaDEA trousers in Imperial
Clara is wearing FelineDEA knit cardigan in Chalk and RicaDEA trousers in Black

SHARE YOUR LOOK WITH #MYDEAKUDIBALSTYLE

Follow us on Instagram at @deakudibalofficial