Back in the mid ’90s, after a successful modeling career, the system of the beauty and fashion industry essentially dumped legendary model Isabella Rossellini. Her beauty contract with Lancôme abruptly ended after 10 years in 1993, with the management deciding that a 40-year-old woman could not represent the eternal youth dream that women supposedly desired. Despite wanting to continue working, no one seemed to want her anymore. However, Lancôme eventually called her back, which she found to be a sweet revenge. Rossellini reflects on the biased cultural ageism that led to her dismissal and wonders if the cultural landscape has changed to allow for more diverse and open-minded choices. She expresses hope for a future where inclusivity is a deep-rooted value in society.
At a Pucci show, Rossellini reconnects with longtime friends Christy and Eva, sparking a discussion about whether their presence at the show is just a passing fad or a meaningful shift in the industry. Despite uncertainties about the future of fashion and beauty, they feel grateful to be part of the current moment, which feels vital and optimistic. Rossellini expresses her desire to be inspired by elegance and refinement that transcends age, contrasting the often unrealistic depictions of fashion in magazines with the timeless styles of iconic women like Maria Callas, Jackie Onassis, and her mother. She is encouraged by the increasing acceptance of diverse bodies and imperfections on the runway and hopes that this trend towards inclusivity will endure.
Reflecting on her past experiences in the industry, Rossellini questions the market research that led Lancôme to believe that women only dream of eternal youth. She challenges the notion that a 40-year-old woman cannot represent a dream, pointing to the unattainable and age-inappropriate fashion choices typically featured in magazines. Seeking inspiration from elegant women of the past, she strives to navigate the challenge of dressing appropriately for her age and body type in a fashion world that often overlooks them. Despite feeling disconnected from the idealized images portrayed in magazines, Rossellini is encouraged by the increasing acceptance of imperfections and diverse beauty standards on the runway, hoping for a lasting shift towards inclusivity in the industry.
As Rossellini navigates the changing cultural landscape of the fashion industry, she acknowledges the progress made towards embracing inclusivity and diversity. She highlights the importance of representing all ages and body types in fashion and beauty, challenging the prevailing stereotypes and biases that have limited opportunities for older models like herself. With a renewed sense of optimism, Rossellini looks towards the future with hope that the industry will continue to evolve towards a more inclusive and accepting standard of beauty. She emphasizes the significance of inclusivity as a long-lasting, deeply rooted value that should be embraced by society as a whole, paving the way for a more diverse and representative portrayal of beauty in the media.
