Joanna Przetakiewicz: A Polish Fashion Icon on Aging, Beauty and Redefining Standards
Joanna Przetakiewicz, a prominent figure in Polish fashion, has become synonymous with luxury and elegance. As the creative director of La Mania and founder of Era Nowych Kobiet (Era of New Women), she’s built a brand around a confident, modern aesthetic. But her journey to the forefront of the industry, and her outspoken views on societal pressures surrounding aging, have garnered significant attention. Przetakiewicz’s story is one of entrepreneurial spirit, creative vision, and a willingness to challenge conventional norms, particularly when it comes to how women are expected to navigate the aging process.
Born on December 11, 1967, in Warsaw, Poland, Przetakiewicz’s path wasn’t initially focused on fashion. She is a qualified legal counsel, having graduated from the Faculty of Law and Administration at the University of Warsaw. According to her Wikipedia entry, she possesses the qualifications of a legal advisor. Though, even during her university years, her entrepreneurial instincts were already taking shape. While studying law, she co-founded “Vita-Dent Centrum Stomatologiczne” in 1992, one of the first dental clinic networks in Poland, alongside her sister-in-law. This early venture demonstrated her business acumen and willingness to take risks.
From Law to La Mania: Building a Fashion Empire
Przetakiewicz’s foray into the world of fashion came in 2010 with the creation of the prêt-à-porter brand, La Mania. The brand’s launch was notably aided by the support of Karl Lagerfeld. As detailed in her Wikipedia profile, Lagerfeld’s assistance was instrumental in establishing La Mania’s initial direction and visibility. La Mania quickly gained recognition for its sophisticated designs and high-quality craftsmanship, becoming a favorite among Polish celebrities and fashion enthusiasts. In 2019, she expanded her brand portfolio with the launch of “La Mania Home,” offering a range of home accessories. Currently, Przetakiewicz is based in Greater London, according to her LinkedIn profile.
Beyond her business ventures, Przetakiewicz has also engaged with the entertainment industry. She served as a judge on the Polish edition of the reality television show *Project Runway* from 2014 to 2015 and participated in the second season of *Azja Express* in 2017. She also made headlines in 2017 with a revealing photoshoot for *Playboy* magazine, demonstrating a willingness to challenge societal expectations and embrace her own image.
“Aging Gracefully is Bull***t”: Challenging Beauty Standards
Przetakiewicz’s most recent and perhaps most impactful initiative is the “Era Nowych Kobiet” (Era of New Women) movement, launched in 2018. This platform aims to create a space for women from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences and engage in collective action. The movement has resonated with many, and Przetakiewicz received the ShEO Awards 2019 in the “Mentor/coach” category for her work with it. The initiative also led to the publication of her book, *#Nie bałam się o tym rozmawiać. Historie bez retuszu* (I wasn’t afraid to talk about it. Stories without retouching) in 2020.
However, it’s her candidness about cosmetic procedures and her rejection of the phrase “aging gracefully” that has recently sparked considerable discussion. Przetakiewicz openly discusses her use of aesthetic treatments, including thread lifts, fat transfer to address under-eye circles, laser treatments, and Kobido massage. She stated, “I love to take care of myself, I love to smear, endeavor, exercise… I am definitely not a woman who will tell you – because for me it is the biggest nonsense I have ever heard – the so-called ‘aging with dignity.’ Because what does it even mean?” She further argues that the concept is a form of shaming women who choose to enhance their appearance, stating, “I believe that it is shaming women who, I don’t know, dye their hair and try to look better and there is nothing wrong with that.”
This perspective, while controversial, reflects a growing sentiment among women who reject the idea that aging must be accepted passively. Przetakiewicz’s stance is a direct challenge to the traditional narrative that equates aging with decline and encourages women to embrace “natural” beauty without intervention. She advocates for a proactive approach to self-care and a rejection of societal pressures to conform to unrealistic standards.
A Multifaceted Career and a Voice for Modern Women
Joanna Przetakiewicz’s career trajectory is a testament to her versatility and ambition. From her early entrepreneurial endeavors in the dental industry to her success as a fashion designer and advocate for women’s empowerment, she has consistently demonstrated a willingness to break boundaries and challenge the status quo. Her brand, La Mania, is a reflection of her personal style – sophisticated, confident, and unapologetically feminine. Her official Facebook page showcases the brand’s latest collections and provides insights into her personal life and professional activities.
Przetakiewicz’s outspokenness on issues related to beauty and aging has positioned her as a role model for women who are seeking to redefine their own standards of beauty and self-worth. She encourages women to embrace their individuality, prioritize self-care, and reject societal pressures that dictate how they should look or behave. Her message resonates with a generation of women who are increasingly challenging traditional norms and demanding greater agency over their own lives.
The Evolution of a Style Icon
While specific details regarding Przetakiewicz’s earlier style are not widely documented in readily available English-language sources, it’s clear that her aesthetic has evolved over the years. Her current look is characterized by a polished and sophisticated style, often featuring tailored clothing, bold accessories, and a confident demeanor. Her willingness to experiment with different looks and embrace new trends demonstrates her commitment to staying relevant and pushing creative boundaries.
Przetakiewicz’s influence extends beyond the fashion industry. Through the “Era Nowych Kobiet” movement, she is fostering a community of women who are supporting each other and advocating for positive change. Her book, *#Nie bałam się o tym rozmawiać. Historie bez retuszu*, provides a platform for women to share their personal stories and connect with others on a deeper level. This commitment to empowering women and fostering a sense of community is a defining characteristic of her work.
As Joanna Przetakiewicz continues to build her brand and advocate for women’s empowerment, she remains a powerful force in Polish fashion and a compelling voice for a new generation of women. Her willingness to challenge conventions, embrace her own individuality, and speak openly about her experiences makes her a truly inspiring figure.
Looking ahead, Przetakiewicz is expected to continue expanding her brand, La Mania, and growing the “Era Nowych Kobiet” movement. Further developments regarding new collections, initiatives, and collaborations will likely be announced through her official social media channels and website. The ongoing conversation surrounding her views on aging and beauty standards is also likely to continue, sparking further debate and challenging conventional norms.
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