For Sagrada Feminidad, Jewelry Is an Act of Resistance Lensed by Alina Gross

For Sagrada Feminidad, Jewelry Is an Act of Resistance Lensed by Alina Gross

For Sagrada Feminidad, Jewelry Is an Act of Resistance Lensed by Alina Gross

Sagrada Feminidad [IG] is a Mexican jewelry brand that reclaims and celebrates sacred femininity through bold, handcrafted designs.

Founded over 5 years ago by Cynthia Cortes, each piece — or amulet — is a tribute to the female body, created to honor its power, sensuality, and mystery. Using atypical words to describe jewelry DNA, Cortes’ creations also honor “autonomy, joy and endurance”.

In these images for Sagrada Feminidad, photographer Alina Gross features the tattooed, sun-baked skin of an older woman, a gesture that acknowledges the life experiences and likely-held values of she who embraces and expresses a deep sensuality at an advanced age.

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Linda Evangelista Wants to Live, As Told to Linda Wells for Harper's Bazaar US May 2025

Linda Evangelista Wants to Live, As Told to Linda Wells for Harper's Bazaar US May 2025

Linda Evangelista Wants to Live, As Told to Linda Wells for Harper's Bazaar US May 2025

Supermodel Linda Evangelista covers the May 2025 issue of Harper’s Bazaar US May 2025 as she faces her 60th birthday on May 10th. Evangelista is styled by Carlos Nazario wearing Cartier, Givenchy, Jacquemus, Maison Alaia, Tiffany and more, lensed by Anthony Seklaoui [IG]./ Hair by Mustafa Yanaz; makeup by Dick Page

Evangelista’s relationship with her trauma over a CoolSculpting procedure gone rogue continues to dominate her life. One must process this reality knowing that the 90s superstar has experienced a host of health challenges. CoolSculpting aside, Linda has a 2018 double mastectomy behind her.

"I’ve had all those lung surgeries, oh my God, and my keloids and all the chest-tube scars and my C-section scar. There were a lot of surgeries. I’m cool. I’m fine with those. I won. I’m here. I won.”

This is an usually candid interview with the supermodel, who says she still can’t look at herself in the mirror but — even more important — she is grateful to be alive. Evangelista is in therapy to confront that issue of the mirror, and she also wants to be a grandmother. Just not right now.

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A Brief Art History of Female Sexuality and Flowers Lensed by Alina Gross

A Brief Art History of Female Sexuality and Flowers Lensed by Alina Gross

A Brief Art History of Female Sexuality and Flowers Lensed by Alina Gross

German-Ukrainian photographer Alina Gross [IG] knows that for thousands of years, flowers have been used as divine symbols in art and literature. In other eras of significant censorship, flowers thrived as unspoken symbols of erotism and sensuality.

In ancient Egypt, the white lotus was considered the original sacred lotus, existing as a transcendent symbol of creation, fertility and rebirth in the continuous cycle of life.

Similarly, in Greek and Roman mythology, goddesses like Aphrodite and Venus were frequently depicted with roses and other flowers, chosen not only to enhance their beauty but also as symbols of divine allure and sexuality.

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Jean Campbell's Pain Control Advocacy in ELLE UK | AOC Updates the Breakthroughs

Jean Campbell's Pain Control Advocacy in ELLE UK | AOC Updates the Breakthroughs

Jean Campbell's Pain Control Advocacy in ELLE UK | AOC Updates the Breakthroughs

Scottish-born beauty and top model Jean Campbell previews lingerie-inspired lace and leather mixes, accessorized with big gold jewelry in true 1980s spirit, lensed by Ekua King [IG] for the March 2025 issue of British ELLE.

Clementina Jackson chats with Lady Campbell, revisiting the topic of pain in her life and the podcast ‘I’m Fine’ she created to talk about it.

In her podcast, Jean Campbell talks to people about their own experiences with pain management, while sharing information about new research and test results in the field. Following her lead, AOC takes a look at the latest breakthroughs in learning to embrace chronic pain while not letting it define us.

The Patient Assumes New Powers in Non-Opioid Pain Management

In recent years, the focus on non-opioid pain management alternatives has gained significant attention as healthcare providers strive to mitigate the risks associated with opioid use, such as addiction and overdose. This shift has led to the exploration and adoption of various innovative strategies and treatments aimed at effectively managing pain without the reliance on opioid medications. One of the most promising alternatives includes the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], which are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve pain without the addictive properties of opioids.

On February 4, 2025, CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta spoke about the U.S Food and Drug Administration [FDA] approval of Journavx, or suzetrigine, oral tablets. “These pain medications, suzetrigine, Journavx as it’s called, work . . . more at the location of the pain, . . . trying to block the signals coming from the source of pain, going to the brain. As a result, you shouldn’t get euphoria,” Dr. Gupta explained. And, what is so critical about this breakthrough, is its lack of addictive ingredients.

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The Health Benefits of Dorit Revelis' Getaway by Dudi Hasson for Puss Puss Issue 50

The Health Benefits of Dorit Revelis' Getaway by Dudi Hasson for Puss Puss Issue 50

The Health Benefits of Dorit Revelis' Getaway by Dudi Hasson for Puss Puss Issue 50

Israeli model Dorit Revelis takes a cover of Puss Puss Magazine [IG] Issue 20 Fall/Winter 2024/25. Revelis is lensed by fellow Israeli Dudi Hasson [IG] with styling by Heathermary Jackson.

The fortunate among us are taking some time off in January/February heading to both warm and cold climates depending on our vacation objectives, budgets and state of mind. We all say that vacations are much-needed respites from demanding lives.

So what considerations come to mind about maximizing the benefits of our getaways?

The Positive Health Benefits of Travel

Ultimately, the choice of vacation highlights the diversity of pathways through which travel can enhance mental health, tailored to individual preferences and needs.

Beach vacations, for example, provide a unique opportunity for individuals to decompress and soak in the soothing effects of sun, sand, and sea. The natural environment fosters relaxation and contributes to mental well-being by reducing stress levels and promoting tranquility.

Adventure Awaits the Willing Travelers

Conversely, an adventure trip or cultural immersion may stimulate the mind, offering new perspectives and enhancing cognitive flexibility by pushing individuals out of their comfort zones. Mountain retreats facilitate physical activity, such as hiking or skiing, which contributes to cardiovascular health and enhances mood through the release of endorphins.

Engaging in physical activities during your trip can significantly boost your health. Whether it's hiking, swimming, or simply taking long walks, regular movement will enhance your energy levels and mood.

Immersing yourself in nature whenever possible is a top priority, especially if you live in a major urban area like New York, London, Hong Kong or Mumbai.

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Julien Martinez Leclerc's Women Drift in Primordial Waters for D Magazine Beauty

Julien Martinez Leclerc's Women Drift in Primordial Waters for D Magazine Beauty

Julien Martinez Leclerc's Women Drift in Primordial Waters for D Magazine Beauty

D la Repubblica’s D Magazine [IG] November 23, 2024 has published an outrageously-exquisite, sensual and primordial story for ‘Waves - The Beauty Issue’. The very talented Julien Martinez Leclerc [IG] photographs models Ajus Samuel and Karolina Spakowski in repose but also integrated into the natural landscape as if they are one being — a single creature. Jodie Barnes provides the minimal styling there is in this heart-skipping beauty story./ Hair by Franziska Presche; makeup by Fara Homidi

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Guerlain's Violette Serrat Relaunches G Rouge Lipstick for Paris Lovers Worldwide

Guerlain's Violette Serrat Relaunches G Rouge Lipstick for Paris Lovers Worldwide

Guerlain's Violette Serrat Relaunches G Rouge Lipstick for Paris Lovers

Meet Violette Serrat

French-born Violette Serrat, creative director of makeup for Guerlain since summer 2021, was born and raised in Paris. Serrat understands French women and their love of red lipstick.

Fifteen years after Rouge G’s first Guerlain release, it’s reborn in 40 stunning shades in both velvet-matte and satin finishes. Rouge G is formulated with a new 89 per cent skincare-based formula made with lily oleo extract. Created with lily flowers and paired with sweet almond oil, this complex has smoothing, hydrating and plumping properties and improves the quality of lips worldwide with prolonged wear.

Top faces Natalia Vodianova and Malika El Maslouhi are leading the campaign lensed by Charlotte Wales [IG].

Even the iconic mirrored cases notched up their glam quotient without hurting the environment. Using gold instead of silver, the nine new jewel cases are 19 per cent lighter than before, allowing for a 30 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

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More or Less Issue 8: What Our Love of Plants and Flowers Tells Us About Our Politics

More or Less Issue 8: What Our Love of Plants and Flowers Tells Us About Our Politics

More or Less Issue 8: What Our Love of Plants and Flowers Tells Us About Our Politics

Photographer Carlijn Jacobs [IG] captures models Sascha Rajasulu and Yasmin Wijnaldumwalks in the natural world of ancestral traditions and conscious consumption for More or Less Magazine’s [IG] Issue 8.

In the Beginning . . . .

The first definitive evidence of flowers traces back to the Cretaceous period, around 130 million years ago, during a time when the Earth's climate and landscapes were undergoing significant change.

Prior to this floral revolution, vegetation was dominated by gymnosperms, ferns, and mosses. The advent of flowers introduced a new mechanism for pollination, often involving intricate interactions with the animal kingdom, particularly insects.

Human-Plant Interaction Studies Using Brain Science

Fast forward to now and human-invented technologies that explore these human-plant interactions. Modern-day researchers strive to understand the psychological and neurological impacts of plants on humans — including our brains.

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Adriana Lima Covers Vogue Espana November 2024, Imaged by Dan Jackson

Adriana Lima Covers Vogue Espana November 2024, Imaged by Dan Jackson

Fresh off her runway walk at this week’s Victoria’s Secret fashion show, Adriana covers the November 2024 issue of Vogue Espana [IG], wearing Dior on both covers. Photographer Dan Jackson [IG] photographs Lima styled by Jorden Bickham. / Makeup by Frank B; hair by Tomo Jidai

Adriana has been devoted to boxing for years, with several of her fashion stories organized around the sport. AOC isn’t surprised by the health benefits of boxing, but they are actually extraordinary beyond our knowledge.

Read our recent deep dive into boxing in Body. Also in Body, this Adriana Lima 2019 Numéro Russia fashion story.

Adriana Lima Throws a Fashion Punch in Numero Russia 055 Women's Empowerment Issue AOC Body

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Vogue Greece Sends Red Kisses | AOC Goes to Babylon for a Primer on Cherry Lips

Vogue Greece Sends Red Kisses | AOC Goes to Babylon for a Primer on Cherry Lips

Vogue Greece Sends Red Kisses | AOC Goes to Babylon for a Primer on Cherry Lips

Models Lucy Rosiek and Naomi Apajok are styled by Glen Mban in ‘Red Kisses’, lensed by Johan Sandberg [IG] for Vogue Greece [IG] October.

Red Lipstick In Ancient Mesopotamia

In the annals of ancient history, the use of red lipstick finds one of its earliest origins in Mesopotamia, a cradle of civilization that flourished in the regions of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The people of ancient Mesopotamia, notably the Sumerians and later the Assyrians and Babylonians, were among the first to transform the act of adorning one's lips into an art form.

Lip Color and the Divine Feminine

Beyond social stratification, lip color also conveyed aspects of femininity and allure, playing a role in rituals and rites associated with love and attraction. The divine feminine was celebrated in Babylonian mythology, where goddesses were revered for their beauty and grace; by adorning themselves with lip color, women could symbolically align themselves with these powerful deities.

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Boxing for Women's Health: Madame Figaro Paris Is Ringside with Karlina Caune

Boxing for Women's Health: Madame Figaro Paris Is Ringside with Karlina Caune

Boxing for Women's Health: Madame Figaro Paris Is Ringside with Karlina Caune

AOC turns our attention to ‘Ring Parade’, and we’re not talking diamonds — although model Karlina Caune is sporting some serious watches in this fashion story for the September 2024 issue of Madame Figaro Paris [IG].

Stylist Sylvie Clemente is ringside, preparing Caune to fight, fight, fight — as women did in Sparta. Photographer Thiemo Sander [IG] photographs the fashion action for Madame Figaro; and AOC takes a seriously-informed deep dive into the health benefits of boxing. / Hair by Kazuko Kitaoka; makeup by Maria Olsson

Historical records and artwork from different civilizations reveal women engaging in activities like wrestling, running, and even boxing. Ancient Minoan artifacts, for example, depict women participating alongside men in athletic competitions, while the society of Sparta in ancient Greece famously encouraged women to train in physical exercises to strengthen them as future mothers of warriors — male and female.

All AOC can say is “Thank goddess for cave paintings.” Let’s go.

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Claudia Schiffer Is Face of Hailey Bieber’s Rhode Skin's New Barrier Butter

Claudia Schiffer Is Face of Hailey Bieber’s Rhode Skin's New Barrier Butter

Hailey Bieber’s Rhode Skin joins the big league today, sharing news and photos of world-famous, 1990s supermodel Claudia Schiffer as the face of Rhode Skin’s new Barrier Butter product. Drew Vickers [IG] shot these wonderful images of Schiffer celebrating the new deep-hydration product arriving October 28 at 9am PT [noon of the East Coast].

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Numero Switzerland No.2 'Timeless Icons' Explores Humanity's Use of Makeup

Numero Switzerland No.2 'Timeless Icons' Explores Humanity's Use of Makeup

Numero Switzerland No.2 'Timeless Icons' Explores Humanity's Use of Makeup

The historical journey of makeup is a fascinating tale of human ingenuity and adaptability. Early humans discovered the potential of naturally occurring substances like ochre clays and charcoal to create pigments that could be applied to the skin. These rudimentary forms of makeup were likely used for both practical purposes—such as camouflage during hunting—and expressive ones.

Understanding the roots of makeup helps us appreciate its enduring presence in human society. It reveals how our ancestors viewed beauty, identity, and even power through the lens of their environmental resources and cultural contexts.

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The 'Shape of Water' in Vogue Ukraine Prompts a Neuroscience Look at Ocean Wave

The 'Shape of Water' in Vogue Ukraine Prompts a Neuroscience Look at Ocean Wave

The 'Shape of Water' in Vogue Ukraine Prompts a Neuroscience Look at Ocean Waves

In late March 2024, Vogue Ukraine [IG] shared a wellness story ‘Shape of Water’ with model Julia Pacha. Kasia Mioduszke styled the fashion shoot lensed by photographers Tatiana and Karol [IG].

Ocean Sounds in Human History

Throughout history, the sound of ocean waves has held a profound cultural and historical significance for human societies. From ancient civilizations to modern times, the rhythmic ebb and flow of waves have been intertwined with human life, evoking a sense of wonder, reverence, and connection to the natural world.

Water As a Divine Entity

In many ancient cultures, the ocean was seen as a divine entity or the abode of gods and spirits.

Mami Wata is a captivating figure rooted in the cultural and spiritual tapestry of Africa, embodying the complex interplay between water, femininity, and mysticism. Mami Wata’s history and meaning have always been woven into Anne of Carversville’s digital psyche.

Impact of Ocean Waves on Our Brains

In our modern world, the soothing sound of ocean waves crashing against the shore has long been associated with a sense of peace and relaxation. What is it about this natural symphony that captivates the human brain so profoundly? The answer lies in both the physical properties of sound waves and their psychological impact on our minds.

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Human Health Benefits from the Sun: David Roemer's Bazaar NL July 2024 Images

Human Health Benefits from the Sun: David Roemer's Bazaar NL July 2024 Images

David Roemer's Bazaar NL 2024 Images: Human Health Benefits from the Sun

In late May, AOC introduced friends of Anne of Carversville to the summer 2024 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Netherland’s. In the editorial overview, we led with the sensual, art-gallery photography of Neeltje de Vries [IG], with a preview of other content.

Today model Zoe Barnard takes the spotlight, lensed by David Roemer [IG] in Cabo San Lucas, with styling by Holly Gorst.

Much of AOC Body’s recent writings have focused on ancient civilizations and their beliefs in nature as an agent of good health. Our specific focus has been on swimming and the relationship of ancient societies to water.

Today, we turn to sunlight and its critical relationship to healthy human bodies.

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An Elegant Ashley Graham for Vogue Czech July 2024 Runs at a Blistering Pace

An Elegant Ashley Graham for Vogue Czech July 2024 Runs at a Blistering Pace

Body activist, entrepreneur, TV host and mom to three young boys with husband Justin Ervin, supermodel Ashley Graham covers the July 2024 issue of Vogue Czechoslovakia [IG]. Rising photographer Luka Booth [IG] — whose IG is worth a serious look — captures the Nebraska-born and raised Graham, in fresh and poetic images.

Not mentioned in her introductory list of adjectives is Graham’s Roku reality series, ‘Side Hustlers’ with cohost Emma Grede and renewed for a second season.

A Beauty Primer for Kids

Ashley Graham also has a new children’s book ‘A Kids Book About Beauty’, published by a new division of Penguin enabling kids to explore big topics in a new and engaging way. It’s called A Kids Co.

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Isa Boulder SS 2024 Campaign Lensed by Guen Fiore Prompts Anne's Bali Reverie

Isa Boulder SS 2024 Campaign Lensed by Guen Fiore Prompts Anne's Bali Reverie

The Spring/Summer 2024 Isa Boulder campaign that got our attention just now, featuring models Komomo Nakazono and Michiko Foy.

SJ Todd, art director of AnOther Magazine provides art direction for the campaign, with styling by Morgane Camille Nicolas. Talented photographer Guen Fiore [IG], who promotes herself as based in Paris but very Italian, captures the raw but sophisticated spirit of Isa Boulder. / Hair by Akemi Kishida; makeup by Anthony Preel

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Bazaar Netherlands Says 'Get Naked' with Artists Neeltje de Vries, David Roemer

Bazaar Netherlands Says 'Get Naked' with Artists Neeltje de Vries, David Roemer

Bazaar Netherlands Says 'Get Naked' with Artists Neeltje de Vries, David Roemer

The summer 2024 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Netherlands [IG] invites us to ‘get naked’, inspired by the sensual vision of water-inspired bliss expressed by model Zoe Bernard photographed by David Roemer [IG] and the sensual, art-gallery photography of Neeltje de Vries [IG].

The word ‘naked’ speaks figuratively to the tip-of-the-tongue marketing word ‘authenticity’, which also has a deeper meaning about personal behavior and expressed values to humans seeking more earnest conversation on the subject.

Authentic woman of the hour Pamela Anderson is featured in the issue ‘getting naked’ as is artist Lenny Kravitz.

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Sexual Healing Goddess Anja Rubik by Marcin Kempski for K Magazine

Sexual Healing Goddess Anja Rubik by Marcin Kempski for K Magazine

There’s no person in fashion who has contributed more art imagery to the topic of sexual healing and body positivity — defined as embracing your body with love, including your sexual energy — than supermodel Anja Rubik.

In these images Rubik covers the pages of Poland’s K Magazine [IG], working in concert with Anja’s nonprofit foundation devoted to sexuality. Karolina Gruszecka styled Rubik in artful, modern images by Marcin Kempski [IG].

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Devyn Garcia in Classic Swimwear for Sunday Times Style April 7, 2024 by Ina Levy

Devyn Garcia in Classic Swimwear for Sunday Times Style April 7, 2024 by Ina Levy

When a resort-focus fashion story opens with model Devyn Garcia styled by Verity Parker in classic, white swimsuits from sustainable brand Jade Swim and queen of rich understatement Loro Piana, we know that a hot Pucci print is probably not waiting in our digital scroll.

Here we are — returning to Reid’s Palace [IG], a Belmond Hotel in Madeira, one week after sharing ancient water stories inspired by a Vogue Thailand wellness story also shot at Reid’s Palace.

Today, photographer Ina Levy [IG], who is also editor-in-chief of Vogue Poland, captures Devyn Garcia in classic swimwear and coverups that will “suit everyone”, writes The Sunday Times Style [IG] section.

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