In the heart of Rome, a captivating story unfolded as five remarkable women came together for a special campaign shoot. This is a tale of transformation, creativity, and the enduring allure of the fashion industry.
Last summer, Bulgari, the renowned jewelry house, gathered an extraordinary group of talents for its latest campaign. Supermodel Linda Evangelista, alongside actress Kim Ji-won, the iconic Isabella Rossellini, author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and architect Sumayya Vally, all converged in a studio on the outskirts of the Italian capital. Their mission? To showcase the limited-edition Bulgari Icons minaudière collection, a celebration of the brand's iconic designs.
The creative vision behind the campaign was led by Mary Katrantzou, Bulgari's creative director of leather goods and accessories. Under the lens of photographer Ethan James Green and the creative direction of Ferdinando Verderi, each woman was associated with a unique bag design, paying homage to Bulgari's timeless emblems. And for Linda Evangelista, the choice of the Serpenti bag was a perfect fit, both professionally and personally.
"It's funny how I immediately connected with the Serpenti design," Linda shared. "In the Chinese Zodiac, I'm a snake, and I've always had a deep appreciation for snakes. It's quite ironic, considering I'm afraid of so many things, but not snakes!"
But the symbolism ran deeper. Linda's career, spanning four decades, has seen her embody countless personas, much like the transformative nature of the snake. And her personal journey, filled with challenges and resilience, mirrored the very essence of the Serpenti.
"I've faced many hardships, but each time, I've learned and grown stronger. Through adversity, you discover what truly matters and holds value in your life," she reflected.
As the shoot progressed, Linda's ease and professionalism were evident. "This set has a wonderful vibe. I'm surrounded by a talented team, and we're still buzzing from last night's dinner. Everything feels effortless," she remarked.
Linda's connection with Bulgari runs deep. She reminisced about her first piece of jewelry, a Tubogas bracelet purchased in Milan in the late '80s, which she still cherishes. "I left it in the hotel safe, but I have a newer Serpenti watch that I'm wearing today," she smiled.
When asked about the evolution of modeling, Linda emphasized the vast differences between her early days and the present. "It's not better or worse, just different. The industry has evolved, and so must we. Back then, photographers would capture a single frame and develop the film, with no retouching. Everything had to be perfect on set."
"Now, with the rise of social media and digital content, the creative process has changed. Sometimes I miss being part of that process, but I understand it's a different generation's way of thinking."
Despite the changes, Linda finds excitement in the industry's new talents. "I love working with new photographers, makeup artists, and hairdressers. It keeps fashion fresh and exciting."
Away from the cameras, Linda finds solace in nature and cooking. "I have a bit of OCD, so I love my knives! I take great care of my beautiful knives and enjoy the precision of chopping and preparing meals. I dream of being a sous-chef one day."
This passion for food extended to the Bulgari project. Each talent was asked to create a personal miniature book, reflecting their life experiences. Linda's pamphlet took readers back to her Italian roots and the central role of cooking in her childhood in Ontario, Canada. She shared the precise recipe for her family's traditional "Sunday sugo" tomato sauce, a cherished tradition passed down through generations.
"I consider my family's tomato sauce recipe my most precious possession. It's a tradition my grandparents brought with them from Italy, even when they lived a better life in Canada. They held onto those traditions, and now I continue them for my son and friends in New York."
And for those who want to recreate Linda's "Sunday sugo," she offers a personal touch: "Serve it with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and ground pepper. I like mine topped with fresh basil and dried chili flakes."
This story is a reminder of the power of transformation, the importance of tradition, and the enduring appeal of the fashion industry. It's a testament to how creativity and personal journeys can intertwine, leaving a lasting impact.
What do you think? Has the fashion industry evolved for the better, or do you miss the simplicity of the past? Share your thoughts in the comments!
