Vlada Krukovskaya doesn’t just create looks—she crafts entire worlds. A force in the underground fashion and beauty scene, she merges makeup, styling, and photography into a raw, rebellious vision that refuses to be confined. Working in tandem with hairstylist O.G.BRAIDS, she brings bold, unapologetic imagery to life, shaping a new era of beauty where high meets low, grunge collides with glamour, and no aesthetic is off-limits.

From painting faces to shooting her own visuals, Vlada’s work is a testament to the power of reinvention. But beneath the layers of camouflage, metal accents, and sharp contrasts lies an artist who refuses to be defined by any single style. In this exclusive interview, she talks about artistic evolution, breaking stereotypes, and her ultimate plan—to take over the world.

Can you introduce yourself to GUSH’s readers? What have you been up to lately?

I’m Vlada Krukovskaya—stylist, makeup artist, and photographer. I create full visual concepts, shooting my own work and working closely with hairstylist O.G.BRAIDS, who completes my vision. Lately, we’ve been focusing more on video reels, pushing our creative direction into new formats.

What’s the first thing people misunderstand about you when they see your work or Instagram feed?

People often confuse me with O.G.BRAIDS or think we’re the same person. Another misconception is that I’m just playing a “freak” character online. In reality, I’m a multi-format artist who can execute a wide range of styles, not just the extreme aesthetics people associate me with.

You’ve built a distinct visual identity—was there ever a moment when you struggled to define your style?

I experiment with styles constantly. I don’t want to be boxed into one aesthetic. But if there’s one thing that’s here to stay, it’s camouflage—it’s become a signature element in my work.

Who’s in your playlist these days?

Lately, I’ve been listening to a lot of Deftones.

Imagine your younger self seeing your work today—what would she say?

She’d be in shock at how far I’ve pushed myself. For half my life, I thought I’d only be drawing. Now, I realize I’m capable of evolving in so many directions—and I know I’m still nowhere near my limit.

How do you recharge after burnout?

I don’t have a formula for it. I just step back and give myself time. I focus on commercial shoots, rest, and wait for inspiration to hit. I don’t pressure myself—it’s better to let things come naturally than to force creativity.

You can time-travel and do a shoot and makeup on any historical figure—who do you choose, and what’s their new look?

A young Angelina Jolie. I’d refine her rebellious look from Gia—that rawness, that edge. Now she has a different image, but back then, she was pure attitude. That’s the energy I’d want to amplify.