Gisele Bündchen's Secret to Glowing Skin? Responsible Beauty
In 1997, designer Alexander McQueen cast a young, unknown Gisele Bündchen for his Spring/Summer 1998 show titled Rain! because of her skillful walk in high heels on a wet runway. Over 20 years later, the Brazilian beauty is one of the highest-paid supermodels in the world. In 2000, she signed what is still the largest contract for a Victoria's Secret Angel to date. Later that year, Rolling Stone named Bündchen The Most Beautiful Girl in the World. Within the industry, her rise marks the end of the heroin chic era in favor of a healthier, more natural glow. Not only has her career created new heights for those that follow in her footsteps, but for many women, the mother of two is seen as the pinnacle of beauty. Talking with L'OFFICIEL about her Capture Totale campaign with Dior, Bündchen, an avid environmentalist, explains how she uses her platform as a role model for good beauty practices as a form of activism to help people and the earth.
L'OFFICIEL: What does responsible beauty mean to you?
GISELE BÜNDCHEN: In my opinion, it is sensitivity to beauty, understanding the power of the impact that all our actions have on our environment and our health in general. Maison Dior has taken a big step forward by becoming more concerned about the repercussions of its actions. I admire its quest for constant improvement and its tireless efforts to incorporate natural ingredients. When big brands like Dior begin to fully realize its actions and its impact, I tell myself that it is good progress that gives hope. We must continue on this path, because nature is our most precious and vital resource. I hope that the entire beauty industry can find common ground to implement more sustainable practices, which helps both people and the environment.
L'O: What do you think of beauty as a form of activism?
GB: I believe that all forms of activism, whatever they are, are important. Taking small, meaningful steps forward, for example by turning to brands that offer plastic-free packaging and natural ingredients, is already a great start. I want to support brands that are committed to implementing sustainable and eco-responsible practices, and who share my values. I try to include the notion of sustainability in all aspects of my life, even the most insignificant. In my family, we always pay attention to the "3 R's": reduce, reuse, recycle. It is sometimes difficult to know where to start, but the most important thing is to realize that you play a vital role in protecting nature.
L'O: Your relationship with your mother is very strong; what is the best beauty secret she passed on to you?
GB: Everything I know about the power of women, it is thanks to her. She perfectly embodies the idea that beauty has no age. The best beauty secret she passed on to me was to keep simplicity in mind: cleansing and hydration are the essential steps in taking care of your skin.
L'O: If you had to sum up your beauty ritual in 3 steps, what would they be?
GB: My beauty ritual is quick, because my mornings are sometimes busy! When I wake up, I meditate or do yoga before the kids wake up. It doesn't give me much time to put on makeup, but over the years I've learned that simplicity is our best ally. I always start my days by cleaning my face and moisturizing it. Now, the Super Potent Serum is also part of my ritual. It's fast and efficient, ideal for people like me who have a thousand things to do all the time.
L'O: Tell us about the Dior Capture Totale campaign. Would you say it reflects the modern woman?
GB: This campaign perfectly reflects modern women: beautiful, daring, with natural and timeless beauty. Our path to discovering ourselves is endless. We are constantly evolving and constantly learning who we are and understanding what we need to grow. This journey teaches us that inner strength and self-love build confidence and show through outer beauty. As women, our potential is infinite, our power unlimited, and our radiance eternal.
