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'BRASIL' EDITION COVER - FEBRUARY 2026 ISSUE Photo: @andersonmmacedo_ / @demmacedo / Video: @olivervideomaker_ / Beauty: @dariobion / Stylings: @eduardomurari @diegobbueno / Studio: @nasulstudio For decades, medical aesthetics has been conducted as a showcase for quick solutions. Technologies emerge, new compounds are launched, promises are amplified. Immediate results have become the metric of success. Rarely sustainability. It was in this environment that Dr. Lucas Alves Luquetti identified a silent fracture in the model. Trained in Medicine at the Municipal University of São Caetano do Sul and specialized in Nutrology and Longevity at Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in São Paulo, Lucas built his practice between two territories that rarely engage in deep dialogue: procedure and metabolism. He mastered technique. He understood systemic physiology. Even so, something did not add up. The discomfort was not in the technical act. It was in what came after. Impressive short-term results, fragile in the long term. Correct interventions embedded within incomplete frameworks. The question that redirected his trajectory was not which procedure delivers the greatest impact, but which foundation governs bodily transformation. The change seemed subtle. It was not. While the market fragmented the body into isolated complaints, he began to see it as an adaptive system. Metabolism, chronic low-grade inflammation, muscle composition, tissue quality, and nutritional strategy ceased to be accessories. They became premises. This understanding did not arise solely from private practice. During the COVID-19 pandemic, working within Brazil’s Unified Health System, Lucas experienced a setting in which physiology was not an aesthetic variable, but a clinical determinant. Inflammation, metabolism, and organic response ceased to be academic concepts and became pillars of survival. There, the fragmentation of aesthetics became even more evident. The problem was never the technology. It was the absence of biological coherence. While the sector operated by trend, he began to operate by foundation. This transition was not a repositioning. It was an intellectual reorganization. At the helm of Clínica Nova Anália Estética Avançada, in São Paulo, he structured a clinical model based on objective criteria, strategic sequencing, and decisions guided by physiology rather than trends. Thus emerged the embryo of what would later consolidate as the Michelangelo Protocol. The name is not conceptual ornamentation. Michelangelo did not add matter to marble; he revealed the form contained within the structure. The protocol follows the same principle. It is not about artificially creating, but biologically reorganizing. The Michelangelo Protocol does not rely on a specific device or a market trend. It is grounded in a clear premise: sustainable aesthetic results require metabolic coherence. Without inflammatory regulation, there are only palliative measures. Without structural proportion, there is instability. Without systemic reasoning, there is fragility. The distinction is not in the final image. It lies in the invisible architecture that sustains it. By transforming clinical reasoning into a teachable and replicable method, Lucas extends his work beyond individual practice. As a professor, speaker, and mentor to physicians, he structures a model whose scalability arises from conceptual clarity rather than mechanical repetition. Replicability requires logic. Scale requires foundation. Sustainability requires biology. In a market driven by spectacle, he chose science. In an environment guided by trends, he chose physiology. In a sector that sells rapid transformation, he built permanence. Today, the Michelangelo Protocol does not present itself as just another technique. It proposes a reorganization of the very logic of medical aesthetics. It is not about sculpting bodies. It is about respecting tissues, modulating processes, and sustaining health. In the end, his thesis remains simple and radical: Aesthetics is only legitimate when it is born from biology. And when foundation becomes method, trend becomes irrelevant. Ultimately, his thesis remains simple and profoundly disruptive: Aesthetics is only legitimate when it is born from biology. And perhaps it is precisely this premise that is redefining the future of the field. But how does this logic translate into clinical practice, decision-making, and results that are sustained over time? Below, Dr. Lucas Luquetti details the foundations, strategic choices, and vision that underpin the Michelangelo Protocol. 1. Your trajectory brings together surgical practice, nutrology, clinical leadership, and the training of new professionals. At what moment did you realize you didn’t want to merely perform procedures, but to redefine the very structural logic of medical aesthetics in Brazil? There was a very clear moment in my journey. I already had technical skill, clinical results, and professional recognition. But I began to notice that many outcomes were strong in the short term and fragile in the long term. That deeply unsettled me. I realized the issue was not the procedure itself, but the mental model of medical aesthetics. Aesthetics was being conducted as the isolated execution of techniques, rather than as structured medicine. I did not want to be merely an operator of industrial protocols. I wanted to redefine the logic behind them. That was when the transition began—from executor to model builder. 2. Over the course of your career, you built an ecosystem that integrates clinical practice, teaching, and the development of your own proprietary assets. What came first: the desire to create something truly original, or dissatisfaction with the traditional models dominating the market? The dissatisfaction came first. I saw an extremely reactive market: a product would launch and everyone would rush to use it; a new technology would emerge and instantly become a trend; rapid results were promised and volume was sold. But there was no foundation. There was no metabolism, no physiology, no systemic vision. From that dissatisfaction, the desire to build something original was born. I did not want to follow trends. I wanted to create a structure in which every decision carried metabolic, inflammatory, and biomechanical grounding. The originality was born out of responsibility. 3. Aesthetics has established itself as a field strongly guided by trends, technologies, and promises of immediate results. Where was the structural error in this approach, and why did the market neglect metabolism, inflammation, and physiology as central foundations of aesthetic practice for so long? The error lay in superficiality. For a long time, aesthetics was conducted as volume correction, reduction of localized fat, and treatment of skin laxity—but rarely as systemic regulation. Metabolism was ignored. Chronic low-grade inflammation was ignored. Body composition as a functional organ was ignored. Muscle as a pillar of longevity was ignored. The market neglected physiology because physiology is not “Instagrammable.” But it is physiology that sustains results. A procedure without metabolic grounding is an intervention without biological support. And to me, that was always unacceptable. 4. The Michelangelo Protocol was born as a response to the fragmentation of body treatments. Developing a structured and replicable method requires years of clinical validation, technical refinement, and scientific coherence. What was the turning point that transformed a conceptual concern into a solid clinical model? The turning point came when I stopped asking, “Which technique works best?” and started asking, “Which structural logic governs the body’s outcome?” It was when I integrated body structure, volume and proportion, systemic inflammation, tissue quality, muscle composition, and nutritional and metabolic strategy—organizing all of this into a method. Not as a set of procedures, but as a clinical system with order, criteria, and strategic sequencing. Once the structure became clear, the model ceased to be a conceptual concern and became applied science. 5. Many speak of innovation, but few build something capable of sustaining relevance in the long term. When you say that the Michelangelo Protocol represents a new era in medical aesthetics, what effectively differentiates it from what already existed, and what makes it clinically replicable and strategically scalable in practice? The Michelangelo Protocol is structured, not circumstantial. It does not rely on a single product or technology. It is grounded in physiology, not trends, which makes it timeless. And it is teachable because it follows logic, protocol, criteria, and a clinical algorithm. Replicability does not come from mechanical repetition; it comes from structural clarity. Scalability is only possible when the method is bigger than the person who created it. The Michelangelo Protocol is not a procedure; it is organized clinical reasoning. That completely changes the game. 6. If you had the attention of an entire generation of doctors, patients, and health leaders around the world right now, what non-negotiable principle about medicine, scientific truth, and human responsibility would you leave as a legacy? Medicine cannot become a spectacle. Results without scientific truth are marketing. Procedures without responsibility are vanity. Technology without physiology is illusion. My non-negotiable principle is that aesthetics is only legitimate when it is born from biology. We do not sculpt bodies; we respect tissues, modulate processes, and sustain health. The physician who understands this builds a legacy. The one who ignores it builds trends. And trends fade. Structure endures. Buy your printed magazine, sent globally, by clicking on the link below:

Aesthetic Biomedicine Specialist explains how to promote cellular regeneration in an intelligent and progressive way. Text by Dr. Juliana Mendonça Photos Disclosure Press MATURE SKIN, TIME, AND CARE THAT HONORS ITS ESSENCE Being a woman means carrying stories. They live in our memory, in our choices, in our affections, and in the experiences that have shaped us. These marks are already part of who we are and do not necessarily need to be reaffirmed in the mirror every day. Aesthetics, to me, has never been about erasing a life that has been lived. It has always been about allowing a woman to look at herself and recognize who she is with greater lightness. The marks of life already live in our awareness, in our journey, in everything that has shaped us. They do not need to remain on the skin as a burden. Taking care of one’s appearance can be an act of comfort, of self-compassion, and of self-love. It is a conscious choice about how we want to see ourselves in the present. I speak about this not only as a professional, but as a woman. I entered menopause very early and intensely experienced everything a woman with mature skin feels: the hormonal changes, the loss of radiance, sagging, changes in skin texture, and the impact of accelerated cellular aging. It was in my own body that I came to understand what so many patients feel. It was through my skin that I learned. It was through lived experience that my professional perspective on mature skin was born. More than 10 years ago, I chose to specialize in mature skin because I know this journey from the inside out. I know what it means to look in the mirror and feel that something has changed. And I also know how much well-guided aesthetic care can restore firmness, vitality, contour, and self-esteem—always honoring one’s essence. It was from this deep listening to mature skin that the “Regenerate” protocol was born. A protocol designed to treat a woman’s face globally, understanding that the skin is not merely surface. “Regenerate” works on every layer: the superficial skin, collagen, muscular structure, and facial support—respecting anatomy, biological timing, and each woman’s individuality. The foundation of the protocol is to stimulate cellular regeneration in an intelligent and progressive way. It combines Ultraformer MPT (Multi Micro Point Stimulation) technology, which acts on the facial muscles, with biostimulators and other approaches that promote collagen production, improve skin firmness, and enhance facial contour. The goal was never to change features or create excess. The goal has always been to restore lightness—lightness in the skin, in the contours, and in the gaze. An open look, more rested, more luminous, reflecting the woman as she feels inside. A firmer face, without losing naturalness. An aesthetic that does not weigh down, does not harden, and does not erase identities. On Women’s Day, speaking about aesthetics is speaking about autonomy. It is affirming that a woman can choose to care for herself without guilt, without justification, and without labels. It is understanding that self-care is love in action. To be a woman is to love—to love one’s own story, to love the phases that have been lived, to love who one has become. The kind of aesthetics I believe in does not erase one’s journey. It embraces each phase, honors one’s essence, and helps a woman recognize herself in the mirror with kindness. And to me, that is true beauty. Dr. Juliana Mendonça is an Aesthetic Biomedicine Specialist, with a specialization in Mature Skin.

'BEAUTY' EDITION COVER - FEBRUARY 2026 ISSUE Photo: @andersonmmacedo_ - @demmacedo / Beauty: @dariobion / Stylings: @eduardomurari - @diegobbueno / Studio: @openestudio There is something quiet about the moment someone recognizes themselves again in the mirror. It is not merely an adjustment of features or proportions. It is an intimate reorganization of one’s own presence. The image ceases to be conflict and becomes coherence. For Dr. Marcus Capanema, facial plastic surgery has never been about the surface. Throughout his career, what leaves the deepest mark on him is not only the visible results, but the changes revealed in behavior. At the postoperative follow-up, the transformation is not limited to comparative photographs. It appears in a firmer posture, in a gaze that holds contact, in the way a patient begins to inhabit spaces that were once avoided. In his perspective, self-esteem is not an aesthetic detail. It is an emotional structure. When someone recognizes themselves with serenity, decisions become clearer and presence gains consistency. Aesthetics, when guided with discernment, functions as an alignment between inner identity and outer expression. This alignment demands rigor. In facial surgery—especially in rhinoplasty—millimeters define balance and longevity. Mathematics guides the planning, but it does not determine a standard. Angles, grafts, and vectors of tension are technical instruments. The true distinction lies in the individual reading of each face. Technique only has value when it preserves singularity. Naturalness does not mean the absence of intervention, but precision applied with intelligence. Harmony is not about neutralizing features; it is about refining them with respect. Universal models may simplify the process, but they impoverish the outcome. The commitment lies in preserving the identity that makes each patient recognizable to themselves. Part of this responsibility is expressed in the ability to advise against a procedure. Translating desire into possibility requires maturity and ethics. The first consultation is not merely a technical evaluation; it is the construction of aesthetic awareness. Photographs, simulations, and transparent dialogue define what is feasible within the presented anatomy. Visual references are interpreted as symbolic language of what the patient considers beautiful—never as a template to be replicated. In a digital landscape saturated with filters and unrealistic edits, preserving individuality has become a conscious stance. The front-facing camera distorts proportions and amplifies details the mirror never emphasized. Continuous exposure to manipulated images creates biologically nonexistent references. Educating the eye is part of the ethical practice of the profession. Skin texture, subtle asymmetries, and facial particularities are not flaws. They are marks of authenticity. His philosophy does not promise perfection. It proposes coherence. The best version of oneself is not a copy of a passing standard, but the consistent evolution of one’s own identity. Precision, in this context, does not merely redefine shapes. It redefines presence. And it is from this perspective that we deepen the conversation with Dr. Marcus Capanema, exploring the principles that sustain his practice and his understanding of identity, technique, and self-esteem. 1. Aesthetics transforms what is visible, but often what is at stake is invisible. Throughout your career, what has daily contact with patients taught you about identity, self-esteem, and human nature? Although many still view the pursuit of plastic surgery solely through the lens of vanity, my daily practice has shown me that we are dealing with something far deeper. Looking in the mirror and recognizing one’s own essence with love and confidence is not a minor detail. Self-esteem is, above all, mental health. Self-love restores self-confidence, and a confident person naturally becomes more radiant and attractive, opening doors across all social spheres. What moves me most is the postoperative follow-up moment. I often comment to my team in the office: “Have you noticed how different she seems?” And I am not referring only to the facial features we refined, but to her posture. The smile carries a new strength; the way she walks and looks at the world changes. Witnessing this true inner rebirth through aesthetics is the most beautiful and emotional part of my work. 2. In facial surgery, millimeters can redefine proportions, expressions, and even the perception of age. What principles guide your decisions to promote rejuvenation and enhancement while preserving each patient’s naturalness and identity? It is absolutely true: in facial aesthetics, every millimeter matters. In rhinoplasty, for example, a fraction of a millimeter at the nasal tip can be the difference between perfect harmony and disproportion. I often say that rhinoplasty and facelift surgery are among the most complex procedures in plastic surgery, requiring the highest level of technical refinement. We study proportions in depth, mathematical calculations, and the precision of grafts. However, all of this science must serve merely as a compass for the surgeon. That is where the true distinction lies: the artistic eye and the sensitivity to read each person’s unique features. Mathematics must be applied gently and in a strictly individualized manner. After all, true beauty resides in singularity. Operating according to a “ready-made” or standardized formula is what causes a patient to lose their essence. My fundamental principle is to master the technique perfectly and then adapt it to the identity of the person in front of me. 3. Many patients arrive at the office with very specific expectations, often influenced by external references. What is the process of translating that desire into a possible result and, in some cases, guiding someone not to undergo a procedure? A great mentor I had during my medical residency used to say, “More difficult than indicating a surgery is knowing when to contraindicate it.” I carried this lesson as a pillar of my clinical practice. For me, saying “no” to a procedure when I identify unrealistic expectations or when the result would not bring harmony to the face is, above all, an act of care and ethics. My greatest commitment is to deliver self-esteem and happiness, and that cannot be built on illusions. That is why our first consultation is so detailed. I perform a thorough facial analysis, with photographs and simulations, to show with complete transparency what is feasible within that person’s unique anatomy. I even encourage patients to bring photos of faces they consider beautiful. I make it very clear that the goal is not to “copy”—which would be technically and anatomically impossible—but rather to map the patient’s beauty standard. It is essential to understand what that individual’s eyes perceive as beautiful in order to translate that desire into a real, safe, and tailor-made result. 4. Throughout your career, has there been a moment when you clearly realized the positive impact of surgery on a patient’s life? What do these moments reveal about the role of self-esteem in people’s lives? There have been countless moments. Colleagues from other specialties often joke with me: “Marcus, I treat complex diseases and, many times, the relationship ends at medical discharge. You work with aesthetics and, every week, you receive gifts, hugs, and emotional messages from patients who were discharged months or even years ago.” That observation perfectly illustrates the transformative power of self-esteem. The modern concept of health goes far beyond physical well-being; it fundamentally encompasses mental and social well-being. That is precisely where facial plastic surgery operates. I see patients who were once shy, who avoided photos and social interactions, and who suddenly begin to blossom. One case that deeply marked me was that of a young woman who suffered greatly because of the proportions of her nose. She had been a victim of bullying and cruel nicknames during her school years. As a result of that trauma, she became extremely withdrawn, with enormous difficulty forming friendships or relationships. She did not even have social media. After her rhinoplasty, the internal transformation was so remarkable that she regained her confidence, did a professional photoshoot, and today works as a photographic model. She always tags me in her photos, and my heart fills with pride. I keep a box in my office where I carefully store all the thank-you letters I receive. They are what prove to me, every single day, that I am on the right path. 5. In a context where social media often reinforces homogeneous beauty standards, how can individuality be preserved and beauty prevented from becoming standardized? My first and main recommendation—almost like a prescription for mental health—is to shield yourself from the negative impacts of social media by abandoning the use of filters. Filters create a completely unrealistic perception of our own faces. Today, we look at ourselves far more through the front-facing camera of a cellphone than in the mirror, and as a result, our self-image becomes fragmented. What was once a minimal detail takes on disproportionate weight. For this reason, avoid any digital tool that alters your features or the texture of your skin. Secondly, I recommend curating your own feed: unfollow influencers who overuse editing or try to sell a “perfect” life and aesthetic. Absolute perfection does not exist in human biology. Skin without pores, texture, or small blemishes is simply not real. Consuming this type of content daily only makes us unwell and creates unattainable standards. My role as a surgeon is precisely to value real, human beauty—moving completely away from the standardization of avatars. 6. And finally, but no less importantly, what is your voice? After everything you’ve learned throughout your career, if you had the opportunity to be heard by the entire world, what essential message would you want to convey? If I could leave a single message for the world, it would be this: loving yourself and accepting who you are does not, in any way, mean that you cannot undergo aesthetic procedures or enhance what bothers you. True self-love lies in understanding that your beauty is unique and that your features make you special. Loving your own face does not mean resigning yourself to living with a nose that affects your self-confidence; it means realizing that it is possible to refine it naturally, respecting your anatomy and your body’s limits. Beauty is not being a copy of the influencer of the moment; beauty is embracing your best version. A person with healthy self-esteem has a different kind of glow—they are noticed, become magnetic, and naturally stand out because, above all, they are happier. My greatest life purpose is to continue transforming realities, overflowing my box of thank-you letters, and seeing a world full of patients proud of their own unique beauty.

Photos Disclosure Calvin Klein - Carlijn Jacobs In a powerful fusion of music, fashion and scent, Calvin Klein unveils a new chapter of its iconic fragrance legacy with the Euphoria Elixirs collection, fronted by global superstar Rosalía. The campaign does more than introduce perfumes — it redefines sensuality for a contemporary audience driven by intensity, authenticity and self-expression. Euphoria has always been synonymous with confidence and desire. Now, the Elixirs reinterpret that signature DNA through richer concentrations, deeper contrasts and a heightened emotional edge. This evolution feels deliberate and culturally precise, aligning the house’s minimalist yet provocative heritage with a generation that embraces bold identity. Rosalía embodies this shift effortlessly. Known for blending tradition with avant-garde artistry, she brings instinctive magnetism to the campaign visuals. Her presence is not passive — it is charged, expressive and unapologetically powerful. She becomes the physical translation of the fragrance story: confident, sensual and fiercely individual. The trilogy introduces three distinct olfactory personalities. Photo Disclosure Calvin Klein Solar Elixir radiates warmth through a vibrant mango note wrapped in luminous vanilla. The sweetness feels sunlit yet sophisticated, creating a scent that glows on the skin with modern optimism. Magnetic Elixir dives into deeper sensual territory. Creamy vanilla intertwines with musk and orchid nuances, resulting in an intimate and hypnotic composition. It is subtle but unforgettable — the kind of fragrance that draws others closer without effort. Photo Disclosure Calvin Klein Bold Elixir intensifies the narrative with toasted vanilla, oakwood and jasmine accents. Structured, layered and commanding, it leaves a lasting signature that feels daring and self-assured. Visually, the bottles mirror this amplified energy. Sculptural and saturated in striking hues, they signal a move toward elevated sensuality while honoring the original architectural elegance of the Euphoria line. Photo Disclosure Calvin Klein Photo Disclosure Calvin Klein

‘LONDON’ EDITION COVER - FEBRUARY 2026 ISSUE Photos: Ricardo Sakai In the London edition of Hooks Magazine, Alessandra Areias appears on the cover as a symbol of a generation that doesn’t just wear the image — it builds it. In a city that breathes both tradition and avant-garde, like London, Alessandra represents the precise meeting point between fashion, cinema, and creative thinking. Her trajectory begins in editorial work, in front of the cameras, but quickly moves beyond the place of performance. When she was selected for conceptual projects in which the image needed to translate narrative, identity, and intention, her role expanded organically. What began as visual interpretation became active participation in the aesthetic and narrative construction of the projects. In this way, she consolidated a hybrid presence that unites model and creator, image and structure, face and concept. Between fashion and cinema, Alessandra builds a territory of her own. If fashion creates an immediate impact, cinema works with time and depth. In her work, these two rhythms coexist. The visual strength of styling, lighting, and framing dialogues with the cinematic logic of narrative and emotional construction. Her editorials and fashion films function as fragments of larger stories. They are images that strike at first glance but remain because of their conceptual consistency. For Alessandra, every project begins with narrative intention. Before aesthetics comes the story. Emotion, concept, and image are organized around a clear purpose. This structured foundation ensures visual coherence, precise rhythm, and aesthetic decisions aligned with the central message. Whether in authorial editorials, branded content, or audiovisual productions, the method is the same: aesthetics exist to serve the narrative. As a creative producer, she balances art and strategy with professional rigor. Her role is to translate brand identities into sophisticated and consistent visual narratives. For her, creativity is not improvisation — it is planned construction. Each project is developed to preserve artistic integrity while also meeting commercial and positioning objectives. International experience has broadened her repertoire and refined her cultural awareness. Working in different countries, Alessandra Areias developed an adaptable visual language, attentive to the aesthetic and symbolic nuances of each context. This experience strengthens her ability to create global narratives without losing her authorial signature — something essential in a creative capital like London. Today, working both in front of and behind the cameras, Alessandra is directing her next step toward establishing even stronger creative leadership in the development of audiovisual projects. Fashion films, branded content, and authorial productions stop being just formats and become platforms for aesthetic and narrative construction. Check out the exclusive interview: 1. You started as a model and today you also work creating projects. When did you realize you wanted to go beyond posing and start participating in the creation of the stories? Throughout my work as an editorial model, I began to be frequently selected for conceptual projects in which the image needed to communicate narrative, identity, and intention. In this context, my participation naturally expanded beyond performance in front of the camera, involving direct contribution to the development of visual concepts, aesthetic references, and narrative construction. This movement marked the consolidation of a hybrid role, in which image and creation move forward together in a professional way. 2. Fashion and cinema move at different speeds: fashion creates quick impact, while cinema builds gradually. How do you bring these two worlds together in your work? In my work, I use the immediate power of fashion as a visual structure and the narrative logic of cinema as depth. I develop images and projects that function as fragments of a larger narrative, bringing editorials, fashion films, and branded content closer to cinematic language. This integration makes it possible to create content that has an immediate aesthetic impact, but also narrative consistency and longevity. 3. When you start a new project, what comes first for you: the idea, the image, the emotion, or the story you want to tell? The starting point is always the narrative intention. From there, emotion, concept, and image are organized in a cohesive way. This approach ensures that aesthetic decisions—such as framing, rhythm, lighting, and styling—serve the story the project needs to communicate. This method is applied both to editorial work and to audiovisual productions and authorial projects. 4. As a creative producer, how do you balance creativity with the needs of the brands you work with? My role as a creative producer is to translate the brand’s identity and objectives into a clear, sophisticated, and consistent visual narrative. The balance happens through a structured conception process, in which creativity and strategy move together. In this way, projects maintain artistic integrity while also meeting the commercial and positioning needs of the brands involved. 5. Working in different countries, what do you learn from each culture and how does that influence the way you create images? Working in international contexts has contributed to the development of an adaptable visual language that is aware of different cultural references. Each experience expands my aesthetic and narrative repertoire, allowing me to create projects that speak to diverse audiences without losing authorial coherence. This international experience strengthens my ability to develop visual narratives with global reach. 6. Today you work both in front of and behind the cameras. What is the next step you want to take in your career? The next step is to deepen my work in the development and production of audiovisual projects, consolidating a stronger position of creative leadership in fashion films, branded content, and authorial productions. The goal is to expand the creation of visual narratives in international contexts, integrating performance, conception, and production as part of a continuous and consistent artistic trajectory.

Power, heritage, and modern glamour converge in a new defining moment for the Roman maison. Bvlgari has officially announced Dua Lipa as its latest Global Brand Ambassador — a partnership that feels both culturally relevant and strategically timeless. Photos Courtesy Bvulgari Founded in 1884 in Rome, Bvlgari built its legacy on bold high jewelry distinguished by architectural lines, vibrant gemstones, and an unmistakable Italian spirit. Over the decades, the house expanded into watches, fragrances, and accessories, evolving with contemporary luxury while preserving its storied heritage. Today, Bvlgari stands as a symbol of audacious elegance — rooted in history, yet always looking ahead. Enter Dua Lipa. The multi-award-winning artist, honored with accolades including the Grammy Awards and the BRIT Awards, has become more than a global pop sensation. She represents a new era of empowered femininity — one defined by independence, creative control, and fearless self-expression. Her presence transcends music; it shapes conversations around culture, identity, and confidence. “It is incredibly special to work alongside an iconic brand like Bvlgari,” Dua Lipa shared. “I’m thrilled to be part of a house that embodies confidence, creativity, and modern femininity. Their pieces always add the perfect finishing touch, transforming a look into a real moment.” Her appointment aligns her with an influential roster that includes Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Anne Hathaway, Lisa, and Liu Yifei — women who reflect the maison’s global vision and multifaceted strength. According to Laura Burdese, Bvlgari’s Deputy CEO and CEO, Dua Lipa embodies a contemporary vision of empowerment and freedom that deeply resonates with the brand’s values. Her authenticity and bold artistry make her not only a fitting ambassador, but a natural extension of the house’s evolving narrative. “Dua Lipa embodies a contemporary vision of empowerment and freedom that deeply resonates with Bulgari’s values,” said Laura Burdese, the brand’s deputy chief executive officer. “She is a strong, authentic voice who redefines success, and through her artistry and confidence inspires women around the world to embrace their inner strength.” In an era where luxury is increasingly defined by cultural influence and emotional connection, the union between Bvlgari and Dua Lipa feels inevitable. A heritage house renowned for its luminous jewels meets a global icon whose voice — on stage and beyond — continues to redefine modern success.

Fashion continues to expand beyond the runway — and this season, it arrives at the table. The French maison Lacoste has officially opened its first permanent café in Paris, creating a new lifestyle destination that blends sport, elegance, and gastronomy in the heart of the French capital. Photo Disclosure Lacoste Located on the prestigious Avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt, just steps from the brand’s flagship boutique, the Café Lacoste is more than a coffee shop — it is an immersive extension of the crocodile’s universe. Developed in partnership with the renowned Giraudi Group, the space reflects a strategic move by the brand to further integrate fashion with experiential retail. A Space That Reflects the DNA of the Brand Photo Disclosure Lacoste Spanning approximately 100 square meters and accommodating around 65 guests, the café embodies Lacoste’s signature sport-chic identity. The interior design subtly references the brand’s tennis heritage through a refined palette of deep greens, soft neutrals, and terracotta accents. Clean architectural lines and tactile materials create a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance — effortlessly French, undeniably modern. The atmosphere feels curated rather than commercial: a setting designed not only for coffee, but for conversation, connection, and community. A Menu with a Parisian Accent Photo Disclosure Lacoste The culinary direction is led by chef Thierry Paludetto, who crafted a menu that balances French classics with contemporary flair. Guests can expect elevated club sandwiches, seasonal salads, and signature desserts — including the playful “Iconic Polo,” inspired by the maison’s most recognizable garment. Among the standout beverages is L’Eau de Croco, a refreshing blend of coconut water, matcha, and ginger, reinforcing the brand’s sporty undertone. Specialty coffees and creative lattes round out an offering designed to accompany everything from elegant breakfasts to refined afternoon breaks. Beyond Coffee: A Lifestyle Statement Photo Disclosure Lacoste The Café Lacoste also integrates a curated retail selection, allowing visitors to extend their experience beyond the table. Exclusive objects and design pieces subtly bridge the worlds of fashion, hospitality, and art de vivre — reinforcing a growing industry movement where luxury brands create immersive lifestyle ecosystems. With this opening, Lacoste positions itself within a broader shift redefining modern fashion houses: brands are no longer just labels, but cultural spaces. In Paris — where heritage meets reinvention — Lacoste’s new café stands as a symbol of how legacy names continue to evolve, crafting environments where style is not only worn, but experienced. ° Le Café Lacoste, 16 avenue Franklin Roosevelt, 75008 - Paris Monday to Friday: 7:30am - 7:30pm Saturday: 9:30am - 7:30pm

Photos Disclosure Press Los Angeles, CA , February 2026 – Ana Flávia Veiga, the Los Angeles-based creative producer renowned for her inclusive, cross-cultural storytelling, continues to build momentum across film, digital, and documentary spaces. Following multiple award wins for her latest documentary Palmas , Veiga is entering the next phase of her career: developing the project into a feature film titled Las Palmas and expanding her impact as a producer of both cinematic and short-form storytelling. Festival Triumphs and Award Recognition Veiga's 2024 documentary Palmas (directed by Aric Lopez) recently earned The Collegiate Filmmaker Spotlight Award at the Burbank International Film Festival and The Student Documentary Short Award at the Glendale International Film Festival . In addition, Palmas has secured official selections at several other prominent and Oscar-qualifying festivals that were not previously listed, including: ● AmDocs (American Documentary and Animation Film Festival). ● San Diego Latino Film Festival . ● Mexican-American Film & Television Festival . ● Watsonville Film Festival . The film explores Los Angeles's history of displacement through the city's iconic palm trees, symbols that stand witness to generational transformation. Veiga and Lopez are currently developing the feature-length version, supported by fiscal sponsorship from SMP Rise and Academy Award-winning Executive Producer Doug Blush. Expanding Portfolio & Upcoming Projects Veiga's independent short My Father's Wedding , starring Disney’s Ricky He, continues its strong run with an acceptance to the San Diego International Film Festival , following its premiere at the Oscar-qualifying HollyShorts and the Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival . Other Notable Credits Include: ● Wasabi (2025): A USC MFA thesis film selected for the Oscar-qualifying Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival . ● Compas (2025): A short documentary awarded the Audience Award and an Honorable Mention at the Highland Park Independent Film Festival . ● The Custodian (2024): Screened at the Middlebury and Watsonville festivals. ● Sueños Violentos (2023): A selection for the BAFTA-qualifying LA Shorts and winner of the Best Story Award from Women in Cinematic Arts . ● The Things We Keep (2023): Officially selected by Sundance , Screamfest , and the Beverly Hills Film Festival . Dominating the Vertical Film Market Photos Disclosure Press Beyond traditional cinema, Veiga has redefined audience engagement through high-impact vertical filmmaking. Her recent slate has amassed over 301 million views across mobile platforms. Her project Fake Dating My Rich Nemesis alone garnered 109 million views , while others like The Bad Boy Who Ruined Me have surpassed 46 million views.

'STARS' COVER EDITION - GLOBAL ISSUE Photographer and Creative Direction: Matheus Coutinho / (All team credits at the end of the article) She began her career at the age of eight in advertising campaigns and, over more than two decades, has built a multifaceted career spanning television, film, streaming, and business. Today, Gabi Lopes graces the cover of STARS magazine’s special Carnival edition, celebrating a journey that combines artistic talent, entrepreneurial vision, and global presence. “I have always been driven by challenges, and I realized I was living in a comfort zone. That was when I decided to develop my international career, something I had wanted since I was a child,” Gabi explains. Her move to Los Angeles, fluency in English and Spanish, dual nationality, and experience with award-winning productions in Brazil prepared her for a leap into the global market. From her success in Malhação – Sonhos to roles in series such as Sintonia and Samantha! , Gabi has established herself as a versatile actress. In film, she has appeared in acclaimed titles such as A Menina Que Matou os Pais and Moscow . Internationally, she has been awarded at the FirstGlance Film Festival in Los Angeles and at the Madras Film Festival in India, and she recently starred in the Japanese film Virtual Boyfriend , in which she also served as a producer. “Understanding all areas of a production helped me grow as an actress. Today, my work is more complete because I understand the entire audiovisual process. Cinema is a collective space, and being curious about different subjects has made me unique,” Gabi explains, emphasizing how her experience as a producer and entrepreneur shapes her artistic choices. The next step for the artist is to star in her first American film as a lead. “Everything I have done so far was a rehearsal. Now my international career truly begins. I feel completely ready, and this project will open doors to other opportunities,” she says, noting that maturity and experience are key advantages at this stage. Beyond acting, Gabi is also an entrepreneur and investor. She is a partner at Marilyn Films, the agency Talent Wave, the NGO Belong, and several ventures in gastronomy and tourism. Gabi believes that her entrepreneurial mindset strengthens her artistic career. “Entrepreneurship is a way of life. It helps me approach my career in a strategic and unique way, combining artistic vision with business insight,” she explains. For the cover, Gabi chose the warehouse of the Gaviões da Fiel samba school, wearing a costume that celebrates Carnival. “Carnival is the greatest spectacle on the planet, and it is Brazilian. It symbolizes joy, diversity, and high energy—everything I want to bring to the world,” she says. For Gabi, Carnival represents not only a landmark of national culture but also the symbolic beginning of her international journey. With over 23 years of career experience, international awards, and diversified business ventures, Gabi Lopes proves that talent, courage, and strategic vision can transform a national trajectory into a global phenomenon, always carrying the energy and charisma of Brazil as her trademark. Read the interview with Gabi Lopes: 1. You began in advertising as a child and built a solid career in Brazilian television. At what point did you decide it was time to turn your career into an international project? I have always been driven by challenges, and I started to realize that I was living in a comfort zone, always facing the same situations and the same style of work. I was missing something new, something different, and that was when I decided to truly develop my international career, which has been a desire of mine since childhood. I have also always spoken several languages. I have never been afraid to step outside Brazil, and I have already lived in several countries. I lived in England, South Africa, and Australia. So, after 23 years of career in Brazil, I decided it was time to challenge myself and start building something abroad. I remember that the film in Japan empowered me a lot. After making that film, I realized I could really work outside Brazil. I am ready! I feel ready, and I can perform in English and other languages. All the awards I have won, both in India and Los Angeles, were for national films, so my career has always been pointing toward the international market, even while working in Brazil. I also think it is important to interpret the signs of life and recognize where your destiny is leading you. 2. Over the years, you have worked in broadcast TV, streaming, film, and have also taken on production roles. How does this broad perspective on audiovisual work influence your artistic choices today? Many people tend to judge, right? They say, “Wow, you do everything, how can you manage all of it at the same time?” In reality, I take on many roles in the audiovisual world, but they are all very complementary. When I started producing, it really opened my mind as an actress because I would enter a production and understand the whole process, the complexity of each project. It made me gain more respect for the work and awareness of my role in it. For me, that experience was always very important, and today, with this broad vision, I feel that not only are my artistic choices influenced, but also my character creation process. Today, I feel much more complete as an actress than I did as a child, when I only understood acting. I think it is important to know a little bit about everything to fully understand your role in the bigger picture. Cinema is a collective, complex, and versatile space, where we work in different genres and perform various functions. You take on one character and profession one day, and the next day, another character with a completely different profession. That’s why I always say the artistic world belongs to curious and engaged people, and what makes someone interesting is precisely that curiosity about different subjects. I can say that I have always been very curious and interested in many areas and have studied a lot. I remember taking a boat pilot course and getting certified with the Navy. Everyone asked why I was doing it. After that course, I learned to steer my own life much better. I believe that the complexity and versatility I developed over time is what has made me unique. 3. Moving to Los Angeles represents not just a geographical change, but a strategic one. How was the preparation process for entering the American market? I feel very fortunate to have an American manager. He guided me throughout my first year in Los Angeles. I didn’t arrive alone; I already had someone preparing me and helping me understand the market. This first year was very important. I started doing auditions, giving talks, and working with American clients and brands. It was essential to understand the culture of the country. For me, this year was literally a period of adaptation, because moving to another country is not just about a new job market—it’s also about a new culture. In addition, I began studying at El en Pack, an arts conservatory in Los Angeles. I took courses on auditions for film, TV, and commercials, and participated in a course with the director of Pretty Little Liars, one of the biggest youth series. Today, I leave the conservatory feeling complete, understanding both acting and the business behind it all. Now, after this season in Brazil, the Carnival, and the end-of-year celebrations, I am returning to Los Angeles to shoot my first American film. I am undoubtedly ready, understanding the culture and the market, with my English much more fluent. I am prepared for everything that is coming. 4. Beyond acting, you are also an entrepreneur and investor. How does an entrepreneurial mindset strengthen your position as an artist on the global stage? When I left the show "The Apprentice" as the runner-up, it was an important moment for me to recognize myself as an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurial people naturally have a visionary mindset. Entrepreneurship is not just work; it is a way of living. Regardless of what I am doing, I am always thinking with an entrepreneurial perspective. I cannot switch it off, nor do I want to. From the moment I recognized myself as an entrepreneur and developed my skills, I began to see my career differently, in a unique and much more strategic way. Today, all of my decisions are guided by this perspective. I believe it has contributed greatly to building my career, especially on the strategic side, not just the artistic. Generally, people with an artistic vision do not have an entrepreneurial one, so being able to unite both sides is fantastic, and they complement each other perfectly. 5. Your international awards already signaled this move beyond Brazil. What does starring in an American film as a lead mean at this point in your career? Without a doubt, it marks a major milestone in my career: my first lead role in an international feature film and also a turning point. Everything I have done until now was preparation, a rehearsal, and now my career abroad will truly begin. This is a very special moment in my life and in my 23-year journey. I feel completely ready, and I am confident that this project will open doors to other opportunities. I am already negotiating new films. Experiencing this now is not only a turning point but also the beginning of my international chapter. I am very happy and fulfilled, living all of this after turning 30, when you have more maturity. I think it would have been different if it had happened at 23; perhaps I wouldn’t have been ready or lacked the maturity. Everything happens at the right time. After 23 years of hard work in Brazil and building a solid image, I am ready to take even greater flights, not only in the United States but globally. I feel ready to act in any language, from now until I’m 95, God willing. My greatest inspiration is Fernanda Montenegro. I intend to act like her, for many years, following the growth of both career and personal development. 6. You chose the warehouse of the Gaviões da Fiel samba school as the cover setting, wearing a Carnival costume, one of Brazil’s greatest cultural expressions. What does Carnival represent in your personal journey, and how does this Brazilian identity influence the artist you bring to the world? I once read a phrase that made a lot of sense: Carnival is the greatest spectacle on the planet, and it is Brazilian. I believe it is a spectacle that truly conveys who we are—our joy, diversity, charisma, friendliness, energy, and vibrancy. It is deeply connected to our sunny, festive spirit. We know that Brazilians have a unique charisma, and that is the side I want to take to the world. When I received the invitation to shoot for an international magazine, nothing came to mind except showcasing Brazil at its highest energy, which is Carnival. Carnival has always symbolized my personal journey. It is the time of year when I feel happiest and most excited, when everything is a celebration, but it is also a symbolic beginning. People often say the year only truly starts after Carnival. I am certain that my international career will genuinely begin now. This moment marks both the start of the year in Brazil and the beginning of my journey on the international stage. That is why I wanted to bring both together. CREDITS AND TEAM: ⁠⁠Gabi Lopes – Model and Executive Producer – @gabilopess • Matheus Coutinho – Photographer and Creative Director – @matheuscoutinho • Allison Valentim – Behind-the-Scenes Photographer – @allisonvalentim • Rodrigo Pinheiro – Set Designer – @pinheirorodrigo • Brenda Fernandes – Production Assistant – @brendafernandees • Pedro Kioto – Filmmaker – @kiotoriu • Ronaldo Júnior – General Assistant – @juniorpety01 • Hair Stylist – João Lom – @joaolom • Makeup Artist – Victor Hugo – @beautybyvictorh • Diogo Carvalho – Beauty Assistant – @diogocarvalhomakeup • Leticia Sampaio – Stylist – @lesampaioo • Heloísa Puca – Stylist Assistant – @helopuca • Rafa Carneiro – Look Designer – @rafacarneiro • Fabiana Arruda – Press Advisor – @fabiarrudaup_ • Victor Santos – Location Producer – @o_victtao • Special Thanks: @gavioesoficial Buy your printed magazine STARS edition with Gabi Lopes, global shipping by MagCloud printing company:

In the new image-driven economy, it is not enough to be attractive. You need to be memorable, strategic, and deliver results. It is precisely at this point that Matheus Coutinho builds his career. Photos Personal Archive / WNGZ Production At 37 years old and with over two decades in the audiovisual market, the photographer and director has established a name that balances technical mastery, cinematic knowledge, and refined aesthetic sensitivity. With a degree in Communication and a postgraduate degree in Film, he has transformed visual language into a powerful tool for positioning. Throughout his career, he has photographed and directed major celebrities and developed a style that combines precision with personality. His work is both refined and technical, yet playful and daring. He seeks unexpected references, blends different languages, and creates visual narratives with a distinct identity. Every image carries a concept. Every frame has intention. When asked when he realized he had found his style, he responds with creative maturity. Style is not something you discover all at once; it is something you build. Over the years, he absorbed references, experimented with languages, and tested boundaries. Recognition came when people began to identify an image as “his” even before knowing the author. The signature was there—in the light, the atmosphere, the direction. For Matheus, technique is a tool, never the protagonist. The starting point is always the concept and the intention of the brand or story that needs to be told. Cinema, art, music, and urban culture enter as narrative layers that amplify the impact. He chooses each element for its potential to generate emotion and relevance. On set, his work goes beyond the click or the “action.” He builds atmosphere. For him, direction is also about managing energy—the team’s, the talent’s, the production’s rhythm. When the environment is aligned and fully immersed in the concept, the result transcends the technical. There is one detail that has become his trademark. There is always a playlist accompanying the process. Music sets the mood on set, loosens the body, connects people, and creates an emotional rhythm. It may seem like a small detail, but it is not. Energy is also an aesthetic construction. This combination of technical rigor and creative freedom is reflected in his results. His portfolio includes brands such as O Boticário, Renault, Coca-Cola, L’Oréal, Netshoes, and Philips. Companies that seek more than campaigns—they seek image-building and real connection with their audience. Matheus also understood that the market has changed. Brands now demand integrated vision, 360-degree thinking, narrative, and performance working together. From this movement, WNGZ was born. More than a production company, WNGZ is a creative movement. A strategic boutique that integrates narrative, performance, and cultural relevance. With a team carefully curated by Matheus, it maintains a high aesthetic and technical standard while scaling to handle campaigns, series, and productions in various formats. The proposition is clear: Creating Wings for the World. To give wings to ideas, brands, and stories, launching everything into the world with intensity and purpose. In an interview with Hooks, he emphasizes that impact does not come solely from aesthetics, but from the coherence between concept, execution, and purpose. Before any click, there is positioning. There is a deep understanding of the brand. There is strategy. There is also pragmatism. At the end of the day, as he reminds us, this is advertising. It’s about results and conversion. Connecting is essential, but selling is too. Whether it’s a product, positioning, or image, the goal needs to be clear. The foundation of WNGZ is straightforward: aligned concept, flawless execution, and conversion. In a saturated and competitive digital era, brands need immediate impact and long-term strategic building. Check out the exclusive interview: You have been working in photography and directing for over 20 years. When did you realize you had found your own style? I think style is not something you find all at once, it is something you build over time. For many years, I absorbed references, experimented with languages, and tested technical limits. At some point, I noticed that people were already identifying an image as “mine” before even knowing who had created it. When your aesthetic starts to have a signature—whether in light, atmosphere, or direction—you realize you have found an identity. That identity continues to evolve, but always on a very solid foundation. Your work mixes technique, cinema, and different references. How do you choose what to use for each project? Everything starts with the concept and the intention of the brand or story that needs to be told. Technique is a tool, never the protagonist. I like to dive into references that are not always obvious—cinema, art, music, urban culture—and see what can add an extra layer to that specific project. My work is refined and technical, but also irreverent. I choose what to use based on the impact it can generate, always aiming to build a visual narrative with its own identity. You have photographed and directed major celebrities. What changes when working with such well-known names? Responsibility changes, but the essence of the process does not. Celebrities come with a consolidated image, so my role is to respect that identity while revealing something new. I like to create an environment where they feel safe to experiment and express themselves beyond what the public already knows. For anyone in front of my camera, the experience must be light and enjoyable. I make sure the process is fluid and comfortable, simplifying what often seems complex. When there is trust on set, everything flows better, and the result gains authenticity. And authenticity is what really connects. On set, you are known for creating your own energy. How does this atmosphere influence the final images? It influences everything. The image starts long before the click or “action.” It is born in the atmosphere. I believe directing is also energy management—for the team, the talent, and the pace of production. When the set is aligned, confident, and immersed in the concept, that shows directly in the results. There is always a playlist accompanying the process because music sets the vibe and the rhythm of the set. It helps build the emotional atmosphere, loosens the body, connects people, and creates rhythm. It seems like a detail, but it isn’t. Energy is construction. My goal is to turn the process into an experience. When everyone is connected to the same vision, the result transcends technique and becomes memorable. WNGZ was born as a creative movement. What made you feel it was time to create this new type of production company? The market changed. Brands started needing integrated vision, 360-degree thinking, and narrative and performance working together. I felt it was time to expand my creative identity beyond my individual work. WNGZ was born from this need, as a movement, not just a production company. It is composed of a team curated by me, professionals who share the same aesthetic, technical, and strategic standards. This allows us to scale projects while maintaining quality and identity. WNGZ is, above all, a seal of quality. No matter the size of the project, it will have concept, strength, and premium delivery. The standard is always high. WNGZ exists to give wings to ideas and launch them into the world with intensity and purpose. Creating Wings for the World is about movement, impact, and identity. Today, brands want more than beautiful images—they want connection with the audience. How do you turn an idea into something that truly makes an impact? Impact does not come solely from aesthetics; it comes from the coherence between concept, execution, and purpose. I always start by deeply understanding the brand’s positioning and what it wants to provoke in its audience. From there, I build a visual narrative that is not only beautiful but intentional. At the end of the day, I work with advertising. We are talking about results. We are talking about conversion. Connecting is essential, but selling is too. Whether selling a product, positioning, or image, the objective needs to be clear. The foundation of WNGZ is simple: aligned concept, flawless execution, and conversion. We live in a digital era where everything is fast, competitive, and visually saturated. Brands need immediate impact, but also strategic building. WNGZ emerged to fill this gap, combining strong aesthetics, consistent direction, and business vision. Because today, image is language, and when you unite technique, identity, and strategy, you create something that not only captures attention but drives real movement in the market.

Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure Few designers read the mood of fashion as accurately as Marc Jacobs. Alongside Miuccia Prada, he remains one of the industry’s most reliable barometers — not simply responding to the present, but instinctively sensing where it is headed. His Summer 2026 show, presented on Monday night (February 9), felt like one of those moments when fashion subtly changes direction. Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure Staying true to his recent rhythm, Jacobs once again stepped outside the official New York Fashion Week calendar. The presentation was intimate, sharply edited, started exactly on time and lasted less than five minutes. Yet within this restrained format lay a meaningful departure from his recent seasons. What unfolded on the runway marked a clear move away from exaggerated volumes and theatrical proportions toward something far more measured. Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure This season, the designer embraces a dry, elongated silhouette. Garments maintain a slight distance from the body, as if hovering over it, but without the dramatic tension that previously defined his work. The effect is controlled, linear and deliberate. Knit sweaters feature gently structured shoulders, while skirts are defined by architectural waistbands that sit away from the hips and waist, creating negative space rather than emphasis. Some models casually slipped their hands beneath these structures, transforming them into unexpected gestures of ease. Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure By dialing down excess, Jacobs allows subtler references to surface. His long-standing admiration for figures such as Miuccia Prada, Yves Saint Laurent and Gabrielle Chanel becomes visible through refined reinterpretations rather than overt homage. At the same time, there are echoes of his own archive, particularly the 1990s — not as nostalgia, but as a quiet self-reflection. The result feels present, uncluttered and free from sentimentality. Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure There is a sense that the volume has been turned down across the board. While market speculation surrounding the brand has inevitably colored interpretations, it would be reductive to see this collection purely through a commercial lens. Jacobs has always worked from intuition rather than strategy, and this shift feels more cultural than corporate. Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure Signs of this transition have been emerging across recent seasons. From women’s Summer 2026 collections shown in late 2025 to the men’s Winter 2026 runway, a broader movement has been gaining momentum. This is not about minimalism or the rhetoric of quiet luxury. Nor is it a retreat into basics. It reflects a growing fatigue with hyper-stylized, attention-driven fashion shaped by the performative logic of social media. Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure With Summer 2026, Marc Jacobs proposes an alternative vision — one that values restraint as a creative force. Less spectacle, more intention. Less visual noise, more clarity. In an era of constant exaggeration, his choice to reduce feels not only relevant, but quietly radical. Marc Jacobs, summer 2026. Photo: Disclosure

'HEALTH' EDITION COVER - FEBRUARY 2026 ISSUE Photo: @andersonmmacedo_ | @demmacedo / Beauty: @g.make.hair / Studio: @openestudio A new kind of luxury is quietly emerging among people who have already achieved autonomy, cultural depth, and the power of choice. It does not reveal itself through excess or instant gratification. This luxury is subtler, more demanding, and deeply strategic. It is called time—and the ability to inhabit it with a body that can sustain life itself. It is within this territory that Dr. Mariana Bignardi Halla has built her career. A physician trained in gynecology and obstetrics, nutrology, endocrinology, and preventive medicine, with additional specializations in lifestyle medicine and continuing education at internationally renowned institutions such as Harvard, Mariana belongs to a generation of healthcare professionals who have moved beyond treating symptoms to understanding the human body as a long-term project. Although her work is widely recognized for excellence in women’s health, her clinical practice has naturally expanded to men seeking the same goal: to age with autonomy, energy, and clarity. Executives, entrepreneurs, amateur athletes, and patients who—like many women—“function” well for the world, but arrive at her office showing clear signs of exhaustion, metabolic imbalance, declining performance, and a loss of connection with their own bodies. In her practice, the care of time never appears as an obsession with aesthetics or a promise of eternal youth. It emerges as the organization of life—of sleep, energy, muscle mass, hormonal health, the relationship with food, stress, and, above all, the ability to listen to the body. Mariana works with people who navigate high performance, multiple responsibilities, and constant decision-making on a daily basis. People who have learned to sustain results, but not always to sustain themselves. This is where her approach stands out. Before prescribing, she observes. Before correcting, she understands. Patients frequently report feeling seen as individuals, not as diagnoses. Care does not start from an ideal model, but from each person’s reality—their needs, limits, ambitions, and life stages. In this context, medicine ceases to be prescriptive and becomes strategic. By integrating science, prevention, and lifestyle, Mariana challenges a logic still present in contemporary healthcare: fragmentation. The body on one side, the mind on the other. Hormones treated in isolation. Symptoms normalized as “a phase,” “age,” or “stress.” Her vision is continuous and applies to both men and women. What happens at 40 does not start at 40—it is the result of what was cared for or neglected at 30, 25, or 20. For this reason, the concept of living well for longer, which she advocates, is neither abstract nor exclusive. It is practical, individualized, and built through repeated choices, not radical solutions. With achievable discipline, not punitive rigidity. With high-quality information, but also with the autonomy to decide. There is something profoundly contemporary in this vision. In a world that sells shortcuts, she speaks of processes. In a culture obsessed with appearance, she speaks of functionality. In a society that values only performance, she restores the importance of presence, energy, and mental clarity as the foundation of any sustainable life project. Perhaps that is why her work resonates with an increasingly diverse profile of patients—people who have already realized that success without health comes at too high a cost. People who do not want to choose between aesthetics and well-being. People who do not see the passage of time as loss, but as an opportunity to remain whole, productive, and conscious. In the end, what Dr. Mariana Bignardi Halla proposes is not just a new perspective on health. It is a shift in hierarchy. Time ceases to be the enemy. The body ceases to be an obstacle. And longevity ceases to be a promise, becoming instead a value. Because, in the real world, luxury is not having more—it is sustaining oneself well for longer. Next, in a frank and precise conversation, Dr. Mariana Bignardi Halla deepens her vision of the body, time, and choices, translating science into practical insights for women who view health as a long-term asset. Today, longevity is no longer just a medical concept—it has entered the imagination of luxury and power. At what point in your journey did you realize that caring for time, body, mind, and choices was the most sophisticated form of wealth? There wasn’t a single moment; it was a sum of experiences. The awareness began within me, when I moved beyond the “sole” role of physician and began seeing myself also as an entrepreneur, wife, and mother of two girls. In the clinic, I started observing highly successful women who had many external achievements but lacked energy, suffered from poor sleep, pain, and mood swings. I realized that none of this makes sense if the body and mind are not aligned. Today, in my view, the most sophisticated form of wealth is having time with autonomy, in a body that functions well, with mental clarity, and the freedom to choose how to live. There is a silent pressure for women to “look good” at every stage of life. As a physician and as a woman, how do you differentiate a purely aesthetic pursuit from the real construction of health—the kind that sustains the body and autonomy in the long term? Yes, there is indeed a constant expectation for women to “always be well.” It’s cruel. I see the difference this way: a purely aesthetic pursuit focuses on erasing signs, fitting into standards, and pleasing the external gaze. Building real health, on the other hand, focuses on energy, sleep, strength, desire, and disease prevention—from the inside out, with hormonal health, supplementation, and lifestyle. Aesthetic benefits can come along, but as a consequence. And that is also important. I know beautiful women who lack self-esteem and mental health. What matters to me, as both a physician and a woman, is a functional body and a peaceful mind that can sustain life in the long term—not just a pretty image in the mirror. Your clinical practice integrates science, prevention, and lifestyle. What is still underestimated by traditional medicine when it comes to women’s health in a continuous and strategic way, especially after 35 or 40? Hormonal transition after 35–40 years is still greatly underestimated. Changes in cycle, sleep, libido, mood, and metabolism are often dismissed as simply “stress” or “age.” Too little attention is given to women’s muscle mass, the metabolic health of those who “appear healthy,” and female sexuality in a broad sense. Women’s health remains highly fragmented; what is missing is a continuous, strategic, and integrated vision across all stages of life. Women have learned to stay silent and hide their “vulnerability” to remain competitive in the workplace. Fortunately, this is changing: never before in history has there been so much discussion about menopause and its symptoms, or about the importance of consuming more protein in the diet. We live in a culture that values quick answers and immediate solutions. How has your clinical and personal experience shown the importance of processes, consistency, and awareness? How can discipline be built without rigidity, and why is this essential for a body that carries vitality over time? Experience shows that extremes cannot be sustained. Radical diets and punitive workouts may bring quick results, but they are often followed by exhaustion and frustration. Healthy discipline is made up of achievable habits, repeated consistently, without the expectation of perfection. I see discipline as consistent care, not punishment. This is essential for the body to move through decades with vitality, without feeling like it’s always starting from scratch. When we think about aging with quality, autonomy, and presence, which habits, decisions, or values do you consider non-negotiable for a woman who wants to maintain physical, mental, and emotional vitality throughout life? For a woman who wants to age with autonomy and presence, some points are non-negotiable: minimally organized sleep, regular movement with strength training, a diet that nourishes rather than merely fills, real stress management, emotional connections, and proactive health prevention. It’s not about living entirely for these practices, but understanding that these daily choices are what preserve the body, mind, and the ability to decide one’s own path. If you had a single space of unrestricted listening, without noise or compromise, what message about the body, time, and women’s health do you feel still needs to be said more loudly? I would say that the body is not a defect to be fixed; it is a story to be cared for. Do not fear hormone therapy if you have an indication and are suitable for it. Drink at least 40 ml of water per kilogram of body weight. Consume protein—at least 1.6 g per kilogram per day. Sleep 7 to 8 hours. Do not smoke; it is the worst thing you can do for your health. Limit or avoid alcohol. Move at least five times per week. Keep learning. Aging is not losing value; it is an opportunity to remain whole. You do not need to choose between vanity and health, as long as health comes first. Time is not the enemy; the enemy is neglecting oneself. In short: care for yourself today as someone who knows they will inhabit this body for a long time. That, to me, is true virtue. Buy the printed edition of the February 'Health' edition: