Meet Givenchy's new muse

When a model becomes the face of a beauty brand, it's pretty much a defining moment in her career. Editor Trudi Brewer discovers how model and mum Candice Swanepoel became the face of Givenchy's latest luxe-y scent Dahlia Divin Le Nectar.

What is your relationship with the Givenchy brand?
I've been working with Givenchy for a few years now, every shoot is more exciting than the next whether it's a campaign or a show that is always true to Riccardo Tisci's passion and unique vision. I wear Givenchy often, it just makes me feel like a powerful woman whether it's fashion or fragrance.

You are now the face of Dahlia Divin Le Nectar. What does that mean to you?
It's an honour to represent such an iconic brand like Givenchy and specifically for this timeless fragrance Dahlia Divin.

How would you describe the Dahlia Divin Le Nectar fragrance? What does it evoke in you?
The Dahlia Divin fragrance embodies the modern goddess, it's feminine and luxurious with a blend of some of my favourite scents like jasmine and vanilla, making it very unique.

What is your favourite perfume memory?
I loved watching my mother get ready for nights out. Watching her put on her makeup and lastly her perfume which would fill the house.

How often do you wear fragrance and when?
I wear fragrance every day. Depending on my mood and style for that day. I truly believe perfume completes a look and attitude.

What is your beauty routine, and your best beauty habit?
My routine is cleanse, tone, apply a serum and moisturise. I try not to wear makeup when I don't need to, to allow my skin breathe. And I make beauty-inspired smoothies to feed my skin from the inside.

The latest looks to steal Candice Swanepoel's style

Image Olivia Wimsett

Image Olivia Wimsett

Volare shirt, $149 from Ruby. Mr Boxette crocotile, $475 Deadly Ponies. Essential pants, $179 from Storm. Givenchy Dalia Davin Nectar EDP, $. Jones boot, $479 from Kathryn Wilson. St James Striped Tee, $110 from Karen Walker. Boho rock necklace, $149 from Silk and Steel. Ring detail felt hat, $80 from Country Road.

On set with Candice Swanepoel
How would you describe the ambiance of the TV shoot and working with Peter Lindbergh and Gordon von Steiner on the campaign? Could you tell us about this collaboration?

As soon as Givenchy mentioned the mood and art direction of the shoot I knew I would have a lot of fun shooting it, and that it was just perfect for me. Dahlia Divin is about femininity and that quiet strength all women have. We are all goddesses and I feel this film and campaign captured my inner goddess. The mood on the set was almost magical because of the unbelievable set they made, in the middle of the Abu Dhabi desert. It was easy for me to find my character in those surroundings. I was so excited and nervous at the prospect of working with Peter Lindbergh but spending two days with him was an absolute delight, he made me feel so special and beautiful, it put me right at ease. Gordon von Steiner was absolutely amazing to work with too, I'm a big fan of his work, he knows how to tell a story with an amazing eye and imagination. Together we made the desert come alive. This is definitely one of my most memorable shoots to date.

Tell us about this spectacular dress specially designed by Riccardo Tisci?
The gown was perfection, and as soon as I put it on I was transformed. Givenchy Couture at its best - the gown was made of silk studded with hundreds of crystals with a beautiful spiked detail on the chest making it feminine yet strong. I was told it took over 350 hours to make. It's an honour to wear a one of a kind piece like that.
 

Behind the scenes at the latest campaign shoot.