Conie Vallese in Cartier's Nature Sauvage Collection by Xavi Gordo for Bazaar Espana

The allure of Conie Vallese [IG] [Buenos Aires, 1986] is both compelling and rare. AOC has never heard the artist speak live, but her clarity in both art and life evokes admiration always and a small amount of envy whenever I write about her.

Writer Celia Cuervo expresses a common public perception about Conie Vallese. Whether dressed casually in a T-shirt and jeans or elegantly in a Celine pompom dress paired with Cartier High Jewelry earrings — as seen in this photoshoot styled by Claudia Laukamp for the October 2024 issue of Bazaar Espana — Vallese radiates the same genuine aura.

Photographer Xavi Gordo [IG] is in a Vienna studio, photographing the artist for Bazaar Spain, with none of Vallese’s explosive abundance of exquisite artwork in sight. / Hair and makeup by Iván Gómez

When one is adorned with key pieces from Cartier’s Nature Sauvage collection, it makes perfect sense that they remain under guard and close to Vienna. Rooted in a profound respect for the untamed beauty of the natural world, this collection is a testament to Cartier's ability to transcend conventional jewelry-making boundaries by transforming wild motifs into wearable masterpieces.

From serpentine forms coiling with primal elegance to verdant foliage encrusted in dazzling jewels, the collection celebrates the intricate beauty of nature's creations. By doing so, it invites wearers to experience a deeper connection with the earth's wild and timelessly beautiful landscapes.

Finding deep satisfaction in the journey of research and embracing the unknown, Vallese is comfortable in unique and even challenging venues worldwide. The artist herself is comfortable taking walks on the wild side.

What matters to her is being appreciated by Cartier’s strategy of seeking individuals with rich intellectual, creative, and cultural backgrounds.

Speaking of the global fashion industry and her luxury fashion appeal, the artist and model tells Cuervo that she has been welcomed into fashion “as myself, not as a facade.” Observationally, AOC underscores this statement about Conie Vallese.

When young models complain about not being appreciated beyond existing as an empty canvas for designers and photographers, they rarely express an understanding that cultivating independent achievements is part of the process of reaching the status of Vallese.

The high bar of excellence for Conie Vallese is high; so high that few reach it unless they are willing to embrace life wearing few blinders.

Reflecting philosophically, the Cartier beauty notes to Bazaar Espana:

Some need to anchor themselves to a home, their possessions, their daily comforts, their sense of security. For me, it's quite the opposite: If I reach that point, I feel like I am living a lie.