Castaways

**Alanna** wears chandelier worn as a dress by ANA PAULA ALMEIDA; LION OF PORCHES skirt; assorted bracelets from stylist’s collection, and CERRA D´OURO *earrings.*

At times, we may feel shipwrecked, adrift, like we’ve lost our way or are stranded on an unfamiliar shore. But it’s always worthwhile to pause, step away from the everyday, and reconnect with nature and our roots. For this editorial, our team traveled to Praia da Andraga, a stunning beach on the West Coast of Portugal, facing the North Atlantic. Once a haven for artists and intellectuals in the early 20th century, this wild, rugged beach is nestled within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The landscape is defined by its strikingly deep blue waters and scattered dark rocks that give the beach a unique personality, combining the mountain and beach landscapes.

Photography and creative direction Joana Linda

Beauty Frederico Simao at Antonia Rosa Atelier using Clarins
Assisted by Ninê Nolasco • Diksha and Isabel Pereira

Models  Djenice Duarte • Mayu Mendes and Alanna from Da Banda Model Management

The cliffs of this beach are composed of Pedra de Alvidrar, a crystalline limestone formed during the Late Jurassic period. Over time, geological forces have tilted these layers at a steep angle, making them roughly 150 million years old. These sedimentary rock layers were shifted by the rise of the Sintra mountain range’s eruptive massif around 80 million years ago. Numerous faults and eruptive veins are clearly visible along the cliff face. The Alvidrar Stone is on the southern escarpment. It is a huge rock that descends almost vertically toward the sea. Local tradition says the site was part of an initiation rite for young men to prove their courage. They climbed the Alvidrar Stone in both directions, risking their own lives.

Our team, led by photographer Joana Linda and Anderson Vescah, the Fashion Editor at ZOOT, captured the raw spirit of nature. They showcased the beauty of natural materials like silk, cotton, linen and wood, many of them handmade and fabricated by Portuguese textile artist and beautifully merging them with the archaic landscape. Three models from Da Banda appear to have been washed ashore, depicting the tribal strength of castaways, in a new yet old world.