Valentino Beauty has unveiled its latest fragrance duo, Valentino Vendetta, and has enlisted the captivating talents of Dakota Johnson and Alexander Skarsgård as its new brand ambassadors. The campaign features a visually stunning video that encapsulates the essence of romance, presented through the lens of renowned fashion photographers Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin.
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The campaign is designed to embody a narrative of love described as “us-against-the-world,” showcasing the electric chemistry between Johnson, 36, and Skarsgård, 50. Their interactions throughout the video are portrayed with undeniable passion, accentuated by the striking “Valentino Red” hues that are synonymous with the fashion house. In one instance, Johnson dazzles in an off-the-shoulder gown as she meets Skarsgård, setting the tone for an evening filled with allure.
This new collection pays homage to the original Vendetta fragrance, which was launched by the late Valentino Garavani in 1991. The updated fragrances, Vendetta Donna and Vendetta Uomo, reimagine the brand’s heritage while infusing a contemporary flair, according to Valentino’s representatives. The launch marks a significant moment for the beauty division, being their first prestige fragrance release in six years.
The bottles of Vendetta are strikingly designed, featuring Valentino’s signature graphic “V” motif and chic pleated caps that echo haute couture aesthetics. Vendetta Donna enchants with a rich blend of floral, gourmand, and woody notes, combining juicy red orange nectar with the softness of creamy sandalwood. On the other hand, Vendetta Uomo takes a spicier and warmer approach, marrying zesty ginger with a cinnamon liqueur accord, all grounded by a modern woodsy finish.
The fragrances are slated to appear on US shelves starting 28 August. Although Johnson and Skarsgård had a longstanding friendship, their collaboration for this campaign marks their first professional partnership. Commenting on their chemistry during filming, Skarsgård fondly recalled knowing Johnson for over a decade, stating, “I absolutely adore her.”
Johnson echoed these sentiments and praised Skarsgård’s sense of humour. Although the film features no spoken lines, she remarked on the enjoyable nature of their collaboration, citing his calm demeanour and willingness to embrace creative requests. The absence of dialogue did not detract from the engaging atmosphere they cultivated on set.
While discussing the project, Johnson hinted at the depth of the relationship depicted in the campaign, suggesting that the film offers a glimpse into an intense and passionate connection. “We shot it in the countryside, so there wasn’t much adventuring around,” she noted. Reflecting on Skarsgård’s unique style during filming, Johnson humorously added, “He was always wearing this little skinny scarf on set, like a blazer with no shirt underneath. So, I started calling him Alexander Scarfsgård.”
The choice of setting in the countryside allowed for a rustic backdrop that further enhanced the romantic narrative of the Vendetta campaign. The film hints at a world of forbidden passion, bringing to life the themes of desire and intimacy that are often associated with Valentino’s craftsmanship.
As the release date approaches, anticipation builds not only for the fragrances but also for the enchanting storytelling showcased in Johnson and Skarsgård’s performances. With their undeniable chemistry and the exquisite aesthetic of the campaign, Valentino Vendetta is poised to capture the attention of fragrance aficionados and romantics alike.
In a landscape where celebrity endorsements are common, the partnership of Johnson and Skarsgård stands out due to their authentic rapport and the artistry of the Valentino brand. Their involvement signals a contemporary execution of timeless themes, making Valentino Vendetta an exciting addition to the beauty market and an intriguing narrative for viewers.