In conversation with Irina Shayk...
1. How did you react when Jean-Paul Gaultier first asked you to become the face of the new Scandal fragrance?
"At first, I thought "wow!" I was really excited. I like the name “Scandal” because its sounds like me... Scandal can be something flirty and sexy and charming and classy.
Jean-Paul Gaultier is one of those French houses that breaks down all barriers in fashion. Everything is a piece of art, inspired by all types of women. He doesn’t believe in one kind of beauty... Jean-Paul Gaultier is all about charisma, and being different. He finds beauty in everything."
2. Are you a fan of perfumes in general?
"If it’s the right perfume. I always say that its very important for me not to let my perfume overpower me. I hate strong perfumes that leave a cloud behind the person. What is special about Scandal is that the scent is light. It contains honey, pear and jasmine and florals, so it's sexy but not heavy.**"
3. Are you attached to a specific scent from your childhood?
"Actually, when I smelled Scandal, it reminded me of something. I was born and raised in a small village and we has a garden with two pear trees. I’m attached to this perfume because it brings back memories from the childhood. I can imagine those pear trees, I remember the smell."
4. You are the ambassador of a French perfume. We often hear about femininity "à la française". What does this mean to you?
"Every time I see French Woman, I see a perfect woman! I think that French women really know the art of being classy sexy and modern in the same time. It isn't just how they dress, but also how they hold themselves, as well as their personalities and charisma."
5. The French and Americans have a very different understanding of a scandal ... In your opinion, what differentiates French and Americans woman?
"I think American women are more free, they can start dancing in the middle of the street, and people accept that. French woman seem to handle themselves more, which is no doubt a cultural difference.**"
6. If you had to compare this perfume to an iconic piece of couture clothing by Jean-Paul Gaultier, what would it be?
"All of the pieces with oversized shoulders from the couture shows, or the pointy bras."
7. How would you describe the scent of Scandal in three words?
"Honey for sexiness, jasmine for romanticism, and pear for sweetness.**"
8. What does your daily beauty routine look like?
"It's very simple. I wash my face twice a day, with water in the morning and face wash at night. I always love to change and try something new, as I believe that if you stick with one moisturizer and one face wash, your skin will become dry or oily. I usually wear moisturizer, but during the summer it can just be a light serum. I really love Mimi Luzon and Barbara Sturm. I love the sun, even during the winter, so I use a powder sunscreen, which I buy on Amazon.**"
For daytime makeup, less is more: a little bit of concealer, but no foundation. I love Marc Jacobs concealer, its a really great product that I use under my eyes and on spots, I love the coconut highlighter by Marc Jacobs as well, you can use it here and there. You don’t have to use lot of makeup to create a look.**"
9. What is the best beauty advice you have ever received?
"When your face is swollen, or you didn't have enough sleep, take an ice cube with cucumber or chamomile and roll it around your eyes, your forehead and your neck. In minutes you'll notice a glow."
10. What is your exercise routine at the moment?
"When you travel a lot, its hard to exercise. When you feel tired you can just stretch at home. It really helps you to connect with your body and mind. When I am in New York I do Pilates reformer machines."
11. And your most recent wellness obsession?
"FaceGym in London (they have opened several spots in Europe and in LA). You don’t have to undress and can literally just run out during lunch time. They massage your face. It's like a workout for your face, eyes and neck."
