SARA BARBIERI – PREGNANT, YES. BUT STILL A MODEL

In our candid conversation, Italian model Sara Barbieri opens up about the moments that have shaped her career, from walking for Dolce & Gabbana to embracing the challenges and joys of contrasting travel. Beyond modeling, Sara shares how painting and exploring new cultures fuel her creativity, while motherhood inspires a new perspective on life and shapes her next chapter.

What key moments were pivotal in your modeling career? For example, how did participating in Dolce & Gabbana shows influence your professional life?

Personally, everything came very naturally. I have a very Italian look, and working with Dolce &Gabbana was both simple and exciting. This opportunity definitely led to many job offers.

What do you enjoy most about modeling and what is challenging?

Independence and the opportunity to travel constantly are certainly appealing, but often there’s no time to truly experience the new cities, as the schedules are very tight. Additionally, the solitude of moving around alone can be challenging. There are definitely both pros and cons.

What fashion trends are closest to you right now and why?

Outside of work, my style is very simple and comfortable. I follow trends to a certain extent, but I love MiuMiu’s looks, especially those with short skirts and sneakers.

Can you share any advice for aspiring models who are just entering the industry?

Surely, it takes the willingness to constantly challenge oneself, the drive to move and change cities, sometimes even countries, for months, and the determination to live this job, even when it can be very difficult and testing.

How has your Italian background influenced your style and attitude towards fashion?

I believe that Italian style is highly appreciated abroad. I have a very outgoing personality, and I think this has been one of my strengths.

How has your perception of fashion and life changed with the onset of the motherhood?

Fashion is a unique world that often needs to be approached with a light mentality, otherwise it can become heavy and stressful from all perspectives. Alongside this world, I have always wanted to build my family, which I believe is essential for having stable points in life. This has never interfered with my career choices, even when I’ve been away from home for months. Certainly, with a baby on the way, things will change, and my priority will be him. After that, I would love to return to work, though perhaps not with the same intensity as before, but I will experience work differently, knowing I have such a great responsibility.

What or who is your main inspiration in life and work?

The greatest example for me was my grandmother, a woman who never gave up in the face of life’s difficulties, always managing to find the positive side in every situation.

What projects or achievements in recent years do you consider most important to you?

This job has never allowed me to establish long-term stability, as things often change at the last minute and suddenly you find yourself in another city. However, since I found out I’m expecting a child, I enrolled in a psychology degree program—something I’ve always dreamed of. Pregnancy gave me the push I needed to take that next step.

How do traveling and exploring new cultures impact your worldview and your work in fashion?

Traveling fosters personal growth on many levels. Experiencing new cultures is truly inspiring, and it’s always enriching to collaborate with people from different backgrounds and discover diverse ways of working, especially on set.

Do you have a favorite place you always return to, or one that left a lasting impression on you?

Paris and Istanbul are two cities that have given me so much, both emotionally and professionally. Every time I return, I’m overwhelmed by a thousand wonderful memories.

What role does painting play in your life? It is a hobby, a form of relaxation, or a means of self-expression?

I attended an art high school, and I’ve always loved drawing and painting. It’s my way of expressing my emotions, and at the same time, it helps me find peace and calm.

Do you see a connection between painting and modeling, and have you ever thought of combining the two in a project?

No, I am very creative, but my painting is often quite abstract, and I’ve never thought of combining the two.

Do you have any dreams or ambitions outside of modeling?

Yes, I would like to work in the field of psychology, a field that has always fascinated me.Studying it, I realize how much it stimulates me and gives me satisfaction. Perhaps one day I will focus professionally on this area.

What new edges of your personality would you like to show in future projects?

I believe that pregnancy has helped me mature a lot over these nine months. I realize how incredible it is to carry a life inside me, and I’ve done everything I can to create a sense of calm for my child —something I didn’t have before. So, definitely, developing this self-control, which I didn’t possess before, is an aspect of my personality that has grown during this time.

If you could choose any brand or designer to collaborate with, who would it be and why?

YSL is undoubtedly a brand I deeply admire. It would be an incredible opportunity to collaboratewith them. I love what it represents modernity, femininity, and a refined rebellion against traditional conventions.

What role do you think fashion plays in shaping cultural dialog in the modern world?

Fashion is a powerful form of expression that communicates ideas, identities, and values across cultural and geographic boundaries. It reflects societal changes, addressing issues like sustainability and inclusivity, while also fostering creativity and innovation.

If you could write to your future self, what advice or thoughts would you share with them?

Never give up, always have the courage to move forward, without making room for regrets. Live every moment with passion, embracing life in all its fullness!

TEAM CREDITS

Photography: Giuseppe Attanasio @giuseppeattanasioph
Words: Julia Radovich @jul_spirit
Talent: Sara Barbieri @arasbarbieri
Fashion: Giorgia Bullone @allelujafromhell
Hair: Anfis @anfisss
Makeup: Cecilia Olmedi @ceciliaolmedi
Video Director – VFX: Davide Fontana @dqve.mp4
Video Director – Colorist: Lorenzo Scibilia @lorenzo_scibiliadir
First fashion assistant: Ilaria Artimagnella @a_ilaria_p