Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Hollywood A-lister Anne Hathaway has recently been named the face of the new Magnifique fragrance, out September 22. Here she reveals her beauty secrets, involvement with Lancôme, and how she prepares for a role.
How did you come to be involved with Lancôme?
The team approached me and asked if I would be willing to work with them on a new fragrance. I was absolutely thrilled. [Magnifique makes] me feel sensual; it makes me feel very womanly. It's all about passion, joy and intensity.
What are your thoughts on fragrance?
For me, scents, as well as clothes and hairstyles, can go a long way in revealing a part of yourself. You're saying something to the world based on the fragrance you choose and it exposes a part of the internal relationship you have with yourself.
When preparing for a role, do you think about the fragrance your character would wear?
For me, scent is very important for my characters. I don't feel like I've found them unless a few elements are in place and one of them is their fragrance … I played one character and her scent was lavender, so I just doused myself in lavender for the entire film.
Do you remember the first fragrance you ever wore?
The first fragrance that I ever wore was a peach body spray. I was 12. I think I went around smelling like a chemical peach orchard for a while. Actually, the scent itself was probably fine, but when you're young, you don't always understand the idea of less is more.
Tell us about the shooting of the campaign for Magnifique.
It was very different from anything I'd ever done before. It didn't feel like it was just a campaign film, but much more actually. We have made a piece of art with this campaign.
How do you define beauty?
You know, there are several types of beauty. There's literal beauty, when someone has a proportionate, wonderful body and a symmetrical face with nice features ... Beauty also is a combination of intelligence, empathy, confidence and selflessness. I think when those elements come together it resonates far more deeply than anything physical.
Favourite smells?
Fresh roses — they're one of the best smells in the world. My grandmother's house ... my favourite smells are usually connected to people. I love the smell of an old book. I do love the smell of the ocean; I love the smell of sort of fresh spring air when you go on a hike in the woods. I like the mix of air and the earth. I love the smell of burnt matches or burnt wood.
Your best beauty advice?
Drink lots of water — that's the best beauty advice. And also try and not spend too much time in the sun, and when you do, always protect yourself with sunscreen.
