During the final leg of A/W 2023 Fashion Week in Paris, it was clear that sheer, skin-baring looks were dominating the runways. This idea of “less is more” influenced our approach to the Spring/Summer shoot, leading us to search for a location that embodied this aesthetic. Fashion is storytelling, and Cape Verde—off the coast of West Africa—felt like the perfect stage. Its cinematic dunes, endless white sand beaches, and striking volcanic landscapes provided an ethereal contrast to the airy, delicate garments.
The Unforgettable Shooting Location
Scouting a location remotely is both thrilling and unpredictable. No amount of research can truly prepare you for how a place looks in real life—its colors, scale, and accessibility often differ from expectations. Out of all the islands in the archipelago, we chose Boa Vista, home to the breathtaking Viana Desert and its moon-like terrain.
A Tricky Shot, Perfectly Executed
Even at 4 a.m., finding untouched locations can be a challenge, with photographers seeking out secret sunrise spots. To escape the crowds, we took an off-road journey, gripping onto the sides of our 4x4 as we crossed rocky inclines. We discovered a remote red mud flat—an ideal backdrop for a white satin Gucci look. Another dramatic setting featured a rugged black rock formation rising from the sea, where our model, Giselle, posed in a Loewe bustier dress as waves crashed around her. Photographer Daniel Benson took the ultimate risk, balancing on a wobbly stepladder amid the ocean spray to capture the perfect shot.
Unexpected Challenges
Venturing off-road for the best locations meant losing all phone signal, leaving us almost entirely uncontactable for three days—a surprisingly liberating experience. Adding to the adventure, the town endured a seven-hour power outage, plunging everything into darkness. Then came an unexpected force: the wind. Shooting in the dunes while battling relentless gusts was a challenge for both the camera equipment and the delicate fabrics.
The Most Memorable Moment
We styled some of the most stunning runway pieces from Chanel, Gucci, Loewe, and Louis Vuitton, each worn effortlessly by Giselle. However, one complex garment proved to be a true fashion puzzle, requiring three people, a YouTube tutorial, and countless photo references to style correctly. Moments like these remind us that fashion is not just about beauty—it’s about teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.
Cape Verde’s raw, untamed beauty gave our shoot an unparalleled depth, making it one of the most unforgettable productions we’ve ever embarked on.
