Antonia’s reverie, Part III: Spotlight on Vera Telles

A model and artist fusing beauty references and styles and convening with the universe

In a city as dazzling and dynamic as Lisbon, I meet people who fascinate me everywhere—when going out at night, walking down the street or even in my studio. Their beauty, their attitude, their way of being sparks my senses and my spirit. In honor of the people who inspire me and make life more brilliant for all, this series is my labour of love to mark the moments.

This moment is all about Vera Telles.

Model & muse Vera Telles at Face Models

Creative direction by ZOOT beauty editor Antonia Rosa
using Clarins, Rowe Beauty and Kryolan available at Kitchen Makeup Boutique.

Assisted by Joana Lopes and Micael Cardoso

Hair by Joana Lopes

Styling Pedro Trocades

Production by Michele Silva
Assisted by Lara Sagel

Photography by Joana Linda

Words and interview by Leticia Lima

Special thanks to Diogo Santos for behind the scenes video and reels.

In this production we enter the world of Vera Telles, a young Portuguese model with a personality that shines through. With a commitment to self-improvement and a connection to the universe, Vera navigates the realms of art, fashion and self-discovery with passion. While her aesthetic is undeniably bold and cutting edge, Vera’s true beauty lies in her kindness and authenticity.

This editorial was directed by ZOOT’s beauty editor Antonia Rosa, who was inspired by Vera’s luminous skin. The array of makeup styles crafted by Antonia’s team were intended to complement Vera’s skin tone and allow her true self to shine through. From body paint to silver chains, the styling helps us immerse in the chronicles of a self-possessed young woman.

Through the lenses of Joana Linda and Diogo Santos, we are transported to a space where colors and textures dance. The production team and Vera blended their artistic visions, resulting in a series of photos that reflects Vera’s essence. Let the styles and expressions spark your imagination.

For me it was Vera’s luminous, nearly translucent skin that inspired me. She did what she wanted in the photos. We just put on make-up and accessories.

— Antonia Rosa

MIGUEL DE ATHAYDE “Andromeda” & “Mystique” harness and several braceletts, made of stainless steel and synthetic pearls.

ZOOT: Why did you want to work with Vera?

Antonia Rosa: I chose Vera as the muse of this chronicle because she represents the youth generation to me. She has a fusion of Eastern and Western beauty (she looks partially Asian to me but is actually only Portuguese) and this naturally makes her incredibly inspiring. I also was drawn to the stories from the everyday life of a beautiful, open minded girl, who feels good about herself.

ZOOT: What specific inspirations or influences guided the production?

Antonia Rosa: For me it was Vera’s luminious, nearly translucent skin that inspired me. She did what she wanted in the photos. We just put on make-up and accessories. My cultural references go through music. Whether it’s rock and roll or techno, it all comes down to the same word: freedom.

ZOOT: Can you describe the collaborative process between you, the stylist and the photographers?

Antonia Rosa: I need these artists to merge with me, and it happened again. When I choose the team, I like to have the same universes, which I can also transmit when I make the mood.

DITA Eyewear sunglasses by ANDRÉ OPTICAS; TROCADES skirt; boots and bra from production.

ZOOT: How do you contribute your artistic vision overall?

Vera Telles: I contribute by being myself.

STORYTAILORS “Black Swan” corset; tights from costume shop.

ZOOT: What media are you consuming these days?

Vera Telles: I have a special interest in consuming books about mindfulness, spirituality, psychology, sociology, neuroscience and history. I read PDF documents and basically any information that fulfills me. I enjoy learning in general and improving my knowledge to evolve personally, professionally and socially. I love podcasts and movies with the same themes.

TROCADES skirt; FILIPE FAISCA zipper necklace; MIGUEL DE ATHAYDE stainless steel rings and necklaces.

ZOOT: As an artist yourself, can you tell us a little bit about your art and what inspires you?

Vera Telles: Everything around me inspires me, but discovering my purpose in this life and being a better version of myself every day, more connected with the Universe and my higher self, definitely inspires me.

I’m a versatile artist with a general interest in fashion, arts, sciences, chemistry and music. I try to explore different concepts and their fusion to create something I feel and want to express. Currently, I have various personal projects focused on clothing and accessory collections, performances, art exhibitions and music production. My inspiration for everything I create comes from interpreting everything I have experienced and felt in this human experience that I have on Earth. It’s all around me.

ZOOT: Where does your personal aesthetic come from, and how would you describe it?

Vera Telles: My aesthetic is inspired by oversized looks heavily influenced by street trends, graffiti and hip-hop. It incorporates futuristic, clean or deconstructed aesthetics with avant-garde elements, similar to Balenciaga style. It’s a mixture of techwear with extravagant and sexy punk, subverting conventional beauty standards and establishing my own fashion.

MIGUEL DE ATHAYDE “Narcissus” hand-harness in stainless steel; vintage JEAN PAUL GAULTIER jacket from production.

ZOOT: What is your beauty routine like?

Vera Telles: I usually wash my face with water and use the cleansing gel from CeraVe. Then, I apply some oils, vitamins and sunscreen. It varies depending on the day and how my skin is feeling. Sometimes I do exfoliators or use revitalizing Korean masks. I also use cucumbers and try to incorporate natural extracts like aloe vera, and I hydrate myself with plenty of water, lemon water, fruits and natural juices. When I feel the need to hydrate my hair, I use CBD extract products and hair masks. Creating a mindfulness mindset is crucial, and I also cleanse my energy.