We’re bringing back memories of sundrenched halcyon days as we chat all things summer with Makeup Artist extraordinaire and VILLA26 Creative Director, Filomena Natoli.
Filomena’s skill in perfecting the “less is more” look in makeup artistry, think natural, radiant, effortless skin, has seen her adopt a client list and portfolio of work some can only dream of. Hailey Bieber, Vogue, Elle Macpherson, Christian Louboutin, Lara Worthington, and Poppy Delevigne, just to name a few. Combining her effortlessly chic style and escapist aesthetic, Filomena launched VILLA26, the must-have poolside summer accessory. You might have seen one floating around in our La Posidonia campaign.
To get us through the slump of indoor living Filomena shares her summer memories and summer lusts, from home.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START VILLA26?
Summer leisure of a bygone era are a main source of inspiration behind starting VILLA26, while summer holiday and leisure photography has influenced the birth of the brand. I wanted to create a sophisticated and “grown up” pool float option that looks as if it could have belonged at a pool party at Villa Dorane, hosted by photographer Jean Pigozzi. Or at La Madrague the home of Brigitte Bardot in St Tropez.
YOUR FAVOURITE TRAVEL DESTINATION?
That is such a hard question. I chase the sun, Italy and South of France, but the Caribbean is magical too. That’s not really an answer ha! I’ve been to the most amazing summer spots and have so many incredible memories it's so hard to choose, however shooting our first campaign image in Lipari Sicily was pretty special.
FAVOURITE POOLSIDE BEAUTY PRODUCTS?
Institut De Esthederm tinted SPF ( a french pharmacy brand) – it gives a great sun kissed glow to the face whilst protecting it from the sun.
A great bronzy nude lipstick that I can use as a blush or lid tint.
Chanel lip balm.
TOP THREE BEACH READS?
Goldfinch
Scar tissue
Swans of fifth Avenue
Random but I remember not being able to put them down.
FAVOURITE SUMMER DISH TO COOK AT HOME?
My favourite summer dishes I love to cook at home are mussels with a spicy tomato Ndjua broth or pasta Vongole.
A MEMORY FROM YOUR LAST SUMMER VACATION
I remember one afternoon in St Tropez (even though we had just returned from a long day on Pampelonne beach), it was afternoon and there was a tiny beach across the road from where we were staying, and my family and I were like “lets go there for one more swim”. We went there and the sun was setting and the whole beach was bathed in this incredible peach light it was so beautiful. We were the only ones there, it was a total gratitude moment for me.
