Cara Delevingne’s “Pinch Me” Moment Has Arrived

“It’s powerful when women understand just how much [strength] and capacity they have,” says Cara Delevingne over a video call. The supermodel — who broke into the fashion industry with her envy-inducing bold brows in the early 2010s and quickly rose to supermodel status — is calling from Paris to discuss her latest role as L’Oréal Paris’ newest ambassador.

The company’s famous tagline, ‘Because you’re worth it,’ is a key part of Delevingne’s global ambassador gig and was a major ‘pinch-me’ moment for the model.

“It’s a big deal! When I [came on board] I hadn’t really processed the fact that I’d actually be saying it in the advert,” explains Delevingne. “For me, it means that I’m enough, and I’m deserving of self-love and respect.” Delevingne says she finds a timeless truth in the slogan, which originated in the ‘70s. “It’s a massive message of empowerment that we still need now as much as ever.”

In partnering with L’Oréal Paris, Delevingne joins a group that includes Viola Davis, Dame Helen Mirren and Andie MacDowell. It’s a list of women known as much for speaking up about important topics, such as racism and ageism, as standing out on the red carpet.

“As someone who is discovering what self-worth is, I’ve been on a journey of acceptance and learning from my mistakes. That gives me a fresh perspective,” she says. Delevingne is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQIA2S+ rights and mental health awareness, and has been open about her own struggles with mental health. “You’ve got to figure out who you’re not, [in order] to form who you are,” she says, “You have to fall and fumble; it’s just life. That’s how you grow.”

There will be no missteps, however, when Delevingne appears in the brand’s annual Le Défilé Walk Your Worth show this September. As usual, the highly anticipated runway spectacle is held during Paris Fashion Week and is sure to be full of joyous vibes. “L’Oréal Paris does such a good job of celebrating individuality,” she says. “[I’m] excited to be myself and have fun.”

This spring, Delevingne — who, fun fact, grew up singing and dancing — found herself at home on a different stage while taking on the role of Sally Bowles in London’s West End production of Cabaret. She describes her critically acclaimed run as her most challenging creative experience to date. “It’s scary putting yourself out there while trying to get out of your own way and stop worrying about what people will think,” she says. “But all the hard work really paid off. I’ve never enjoyed something more in my life.”

Below are some of Cara Delevingne’s must-have beauty essentials.

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lip Colour in 120 Rouge St.Germain

“I’m obsessed with this red lipstick because it’s easy,” says Delevingne. “I’ve been throwing it on with no other makeup and it speaks for itself.”

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power LZR 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

“I have very, very dry skin and this serum [keeps skin] moisturized for a long time,” she says.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara in Blackest Black

“The brush really spreads it out so there’s a natural effect which I love,” says Delevingne.