Sometimes, it's very easy to think that things don't change; I hope you will take inspiration from my interview tomorrow with Jan de Villeneuve, the iconic supermodel.
Back in 2012, I interviewed a few leading women and asked them what beauty meant to them.
When I spoke with Jan at that time, I shared my desire to see a positive change in how women and models of a certain age are represented within fashion and beauty. Thankfully today, that change is very evident and is continuously evolving for the better. The older woman is definitely no-longer INVISIBLE rather very VISIBLE both on the fashion pages, catwalks and in beauty campaigns.
The first beauty revolution may have been linked to the ‘20s however now nearly a century later we are currently in a very fresh Beauty Renaissance; one that is much more inclusive and embracing of everyone's individuality, beauty and most importantly age.
I worked with Jan, many years ago for an editorial, at that time when I was applying her makeup, we both agreed to passionately use our voices and become more vocal in advocating for better awareness around age and to endeavour to get brands and the media to change the language used to describe ageing for women in particular. Today, Jan works effortlessly for all the leading glossy editorials and walks on all the international fashion catwalks. I take great hope from that time we shared our deepest desires for change, as it proves to me that desire and words are powerful, to ensure change happens; it is just a matter of time.
Jan has worked with all the legendary photographers; David Bailey, Norman Parkinson, Helmut Newton, Mario Testino, Patrick Demarchelier, Steven Meisel and many, many more gracing the numerous covers of international magazines. Through all the seasons of her life, Jan has been a woman of immense style, inspiration and timeless beauty.
Photo from Jan de Villeneuve
Photo credit: Steven Meisel for Vogue Italia
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