XXXGUTTER CREDIT HERE LIKE
SET DESIGN: PENNY MILLSWHAT DOES CONFIDENCE mean to
you? It’s a question that is central to photographer
Greta Ilieva’s work, in particular the way she
perceives nudity. “There is a realness between
myself and my subject when capturing someone
in an intimate setting,” Ilieva explains. “It’s the
most honest and authentic way to view a person.
It’s an emotional experience.”
Ilieva’s latest project saw her capture women
wearing Victoria’s Secret lingerie. The minimal
backdrop for the shoot was designed to be as
relaxed and natural as possible, in order to
spotlight each model’s personality – not just the
feminine pieces they wore. The photographer’s
one instruction to the models was to “please
yourself,” explains Ilieva. “I told them to imagine
shooting their own pictures and to think about
how they would like to be seen.” There was no
direction to look sexy, or sexualisation of the
models. It was all about self-empowerment:
a woman seen through a woman’s gaze.VOGUE PARTNERSHIPAbove:
Sheer
underwired
teddy, £49.
Left: Bralet
in Chantilly
lace, £35.
Shorts, part
of a set, £75The relaxed, fluid nature of shooting translates
into the final images, which have a rawness about
them. “I see beauty in imperfections,” says Ilieva.
“I get a similar emotional reaction from both,
because when a subject shows me their insecurities
it is incredibly intimate and ultimately beautiful.”
The detail and fit of the underwear – from the
delicate lace bodies to the embellished bralet
and luxurious day sets – shines through without
any gloss or added glamour.
In each portrait “you believe in the women
wearing the underwear,” says Ilieva, who grew
up perceiving nudity as art, owing to the
inspiring work of her photographer mother.
“I’m interested in nudity from a point of view,
not just a body shape.” The secret to confidence,
then, lies in letting go and giving yourself the
freedom to feel powerful and sexy – whatever
that looks like for you. Q
Victoria’s Secret have 26 stores across the UK
and Ireland. Bra fittings are complimentary
and there is no need to make an appointment.
View the collection at Victoriassecret.co.uk1219VSV3.indd 146 21/10/2019 16:07