IN CONVERSATION WITH ROONEY MARA
interview by TIMOTEJ LETONJA
The Maison’s very first fragrance, L’Interdit, originally created by Hubert de Givenchy for his close friend Audrey Hepburn, has always stood as a statement of singularity, and an invitation to reveal every woman’s inner strength. Today, Givenchy introduces L'interdit Elixir: more captivating and more bewitching than ever, becoming a talisman of power and an adornment that inspires confidence and enhances the aura of the woman who wears it. From the very first notes, black cherry reveals a sensual intensity, appealing and juicy, exalted by bitter almond essence in a captivating opening. The signature white floral bouquet of jasmine, orange blossom and tuberose expresses its full magnetic sensuality. These floral notes blend elegantly with the majestic accents of pure oak wood extract, giving the fragrance a deep intensity.
Rooney Mara has been the face of L’Interdit since 2018. For the new communication campaign, Mara wears a spectacular jeweled piece custom-designed by the House of Givenchy, radiating inner strength, sensibility, and power. Reflecting the Givenchy heritage, Couture and fragrance come together to reveal the strength of women.
You’ve been the face of Givenchy since 2018. What has made your relationship with the Maison so meaningful over these years?
I’ve always felt welcomed and at home there. I’ve been wearing their clothes for so long, and I’ve been lucky enough to have a wonderful collaborative relationship with them.
You’ve worked with so many of cinema’s most visionary directors over the years. What have those collaborations taught you about trusting your instincts as an artist?
The directors are always the North Star, we have to have complete trust in them. I think I was so lucky working with David Fincher at such a young age and in such a formative way. He really empowered and encouraged me. It was such a gift to work with someone who could teach you that you can trust your instincts, that you should trust your opinion, and have one. I feel so grateful for that.
Sarah Burton has begun an exciting new chapter at Givenchy. What has impressed you most about her creative vision for the Мaison?
I’ve been working with Sarah for as long as I’ve been working with Givenchy. When I met her she was immediately so warm, lovely and real. I’ve been wearing her clothes forever. She’s just so immensely talented, and I think what she’s done at Givenchy is incredible. She’s really given them such a strong identity back, and it feels so rooted in the classic Givenchy, while the Maison still feels so modern and forward-thinking, and very much her own.
L’Interdit Elixir is described as a talisman of power, something that enhances confidence but also reveals inner strength. What aspects of that idea connect with you most?
I’m a big believer in talismans, so I like the idea that it can be a talisman of power and inner strength. So much of who we are is how we think, and if there’s a talisman you think will give you inner power, just that belief alone is powerful.
As mentioned, you’ve obviously been with the Maison for many years, through many campaigns and many fragrances. How does Elixir feel different from the previous campaigns you’ve done for Givenchy?
The actual campaign is actually completely different — the look, the black lace evening gown, and the mood. Sarah made it its own kind of talisman.
What do you hope people feel when they encounter Elixir for the first time?
I hope they stop you on the street and say, “What is it that you’re wearing?” I think it’s that kind of scent that people would stop you and ask about.
