Swedish model Afra Wendel Bommarco is New York's newest model muse

At just 21, Afra Wendel Bommarco has gone from Stockholm’s serene suburbs to the relentless rhythm of downtown Manhattan. As https://www.voguescandinavia.com/tags/models) exports, she’s quickly adapting to a world far removed from the slow comforts of home – all while staying rooted in the values she grew up with. In this candid conversation with photographer Tim Grupp, Bommarco reflects on the contrasts between Sweden and the States, how fashion helps her shape-shift between cities, and why she still finds time for fredagsmys (the Swedish tradition of unwinding in a cosy environment on a Friday night), no matter how fast-paced life gets.

Afra, you've been in New York for about a year now. How does it compare to your hometown, Stockholm and what do you miss most about life in Sweden?

In many ways, my life in New York is the polar opposite to my life in Stockholm. I grew up on the outskirts of Stockholm, having a much calmer lifestyle. New York is very fast pace, there's always something going on and people are always moving forward. You have to pick up on the fast pace to not fall behind. Most of all I miss the nature in Sweden, being close to water and walking in the woods. I miss the calmness of everyday routines.

Moving abroad can feel a bit overwhelming and comes with a lot of challenges. What do you think New York has taught you so far?

So so much. Just moving anywhere without knowing anyone is challenging, but especially when it’s on the other side of the world and a city that’s so different from what I’m used to. I’ve realised that putting myself in situations that are outside of my comfort zone and realising I can handle it has taught me a lot and made me really grow as a person.

I think my time in New York has affected me as a person and I’ve met so many incredible, ambitious, creative and inspiring people. Life in New York has taught me a lot that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.

How do you stay connected with your family back in Sweden? What values do you hold onto as you build your life and career in a different country?

We text, talk on the phone and Facetime all the time. It’s still hard to explain my life here, I’m living in a bubble where new things happen all the time.

It’s very far from home both by distance and in lifestyle. I try to bring the calmness from Sweden back to NYC. Allowing myself to stay home every now and then, enjoying nature, sunlight and having a solid routine.

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You arrived here with just two suitcases. What clothing items are essential to you – what pieces do you always reach for when getting dressed?

Whenever I’m travelling, I make sure to bring simple everyday clothes that I know I’ll use a lot. Simple jeans, tops and sweaters. I’ll bring some statement pieces and clothes that I can layer and style in many different ways. When I travel to a new place I’ll put on an alter ego of what kind of person I want to be in that city and dress accordingly. Fashion to me is a reflection of my personality and mood that day. I always make sure to bring comfy clothes that I can wear at home, that’ll make me feel grounded amongst the fast pace of New York.

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Living light – what inspires you most about traveling? Where do you like to look for fashion pieces or personal items that you end up taking home?

I like to get inspired by the everyday people that I encounter when I'm travelling. The ones who grew up there, lived their lives in that place. I always try to imagine what my life would look like if I grew up in a different place. it gives me perspective. When I travel, I always aim to have an authentic local experience and really get a feel for the culture. I enjoy walking around and finding genuine local restaurant, cafes and shops. I’ m very into thrifting so I always try to find good thrift stores wherever I am.

Finally – what does the perfect fredagsmys look like for you?

When I think of fredagsmys I think of family and friends. Gathering people you love and spending quality time with them, getting comfortable on the sofa with snacks while watching a show or movie.

Fredagsmys reminds me of my childhood back in Sweden when me and my siblings used to watch Swedish idol and eat chips in front of the TV.

It’s a huge comfort for me and feels incredibly nostalgic.