With her unique blend of elegance and raw energy, Valentina Hites is a force in today’s fashion world. Her passion for fashion and cinema comes alive in her everyday style, marked by influences from iconic filmmakers and vintage treasures. In this interview, Valentina opens up about her journey in fashion, her love for storytelling through style, and the challenges of staying authentic in a rapidly changing industry. Under the lense of Jacques Burga, she embodies the Saint Laurent Pre-Fall 2024 collection.

AICHA NDIAYE How does your passion for fashion and cinema influence your everyday style?

VALENTINA HITES My style is all about storytelling. Fashion and cinema have this amazing way of stirring up emotions, pulling you into a narrative—and that’s exactly what I’m channeling in my daily looks. Each outfit feels like a scene from a film—raw, unfiltered, and designed to provoke something. I’m obsessed with the big D’s of cinema: David Lynch, David Fincher, and David Cronenberg. I love thrillers, plot twists, and the unexpected—they’re all about pushing boundaries and shaking things up. My looks are often a mix of fiction and reality, with that cinematic edge that makes me feel like I’m stepping into a different story each day.

AN How do you see the influence of past trends shaping contemporary fashion today?

VH Fashion is a mirror of history; each era has its own voice and energy. I love that designers today draw from past decades, bringing the rebellion, boldness, and unique flair of those times into today’s world. Every era is like a mini-revolution—different platforms, same spirit. I’m a huge fan of sustainability and vintage shopping. Let’s normalize re-wearing pieces, buying second-hand, and recognizing the quality of timeless fashion. Today’s fashion is a mashup of past and present, honoring what shaped us and embracing sustainable practices.

AN What role do you believe fashion plays in empowering women?

VH Fashion is power without a single word spoken. It’s about claiming space, owning confidence, and expressing strength on our terms. Historically, fashion has always been tied to movements for visibility and rights. Azzedine Alaïa celebrated the female form, creating pieces that highlighted a woman’s natural strength and elegance, while Vivienne Westwood’s punk-inspired designs challenged the status quo and empowered women to stand out boldly. To me, fashion is more than fabric; it’s freedom, identity, and a way to push boundaries and spark real change.

AN What does “the beauty of letting go” mean to you in terms of personal style and fashion design?

VH For me, “the beauty of letting go” is about embracing imperfection and the rawness of real life. I’m all about contrasts—like someone dressed in high fashion but in a rough, unpolished setting. It’s raw, it’s real. Letting go means ditching the obsession with trends and perfection, which, as a Virgo, I used to be all about. But over time, I’ve realized perfection doesn’t exist; sometimes, the beauty is in the flaws. As Helmut Newton said, “the beauty of perfection is imperfection.” When you embrace your flaws, they become your charm.

AN What are some challenges you face in the fashion industry today, and how do you navigate them?

VH Fashion is amazing but intense. Globalization and social media mean everyone’s competing for attention. People today are more plugged into the world—politics, social issues, the environment. They want to know where you stand. For me, staying true to my vision and being honest is key. If people don’t vibe with your stance, that’s fine; those who align with your values will come to you. I think authenticity is the strongest connection you can have with your audience.

AN Do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re particularly excited about and can share with us?

VH Yes! I’m beyond excited about a brand collab where I’m working as a co-designer. Plus, I’m directing a short film and leading a major creative project. It’s a dream come true because it blends everything I love—fashion, storytelling, and cinematic visuals. I get to mix fiction with raw reality, which is incredibly exciting for me.

AN You emphasize the beauty of effortless style. What does “effortless” mean to you in the context of fashion and personal expression?

VH Effortless style is wearing what feels true without overthinking it. It’s the balance between polished and undone, between high fashion and that relaxed, everyday vibe. If you’re trying too hard to be someone else, people can tell. Effortless style is about staying connected to your own personality, your “DNA.” It’s about letting pieces speak for themselves, letting them feel like you without bending to trends.

AN What do you think is the most significant change in the fashion landscape today, and how does that impact your work?

VH The biggest change today? It’s all about storytelling, authenticity, and responsibility. People crave something real—they don’t just want pretty; they want purpose, values, to see what you stand for. That’s why platforms like TikTok are blowing up with younger audiences—they want to connect with the person behind the style. There’s also a huge focus on sustainability and mindful practices, which I find incredibly inspiring. I love seeing many prestigious brands banning fur; it’s a bold step toward responsibility. Balancing creativity with responsibility is essential—it’s about creating something beautiful but in a way that’s intentional and respectful to the world around us.

AN What trends do you see shaping the future of fashion?

VH I think the future of fashion will focus on authenticity, individuality, and sustainability. People are moving away from mass trends and focusing more on personalized, story-driven styles. We’re seeing a rise in gender-fluid fashion, quiet luxury, and a shift towards recycling and upcycling. Fashion is moving towards celebrating diversity and self-expression—creating looks that reflect who we truly are rather than just following what’s “in.”

AN What are your favorite getaway spots to escape?

VH I’m drawn to places with a raw, cinematic beauty—whether it’s secluded coastal towns or cities rich with history. The Mediterranean is one of my favorite escapes because it has this perfect blend of nature and culture, which I find grounding and inspiring. I also love my hometown in Chile; it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world. Coastal areas like Cachagua and Zapallar, or the unique landscapes in the north and south, keep me grounded and creatively inspired.

AN Saint Laurent is known for its iconic blend of elegance and sophistication. How does this aesthetic align with your own creative vision?

VH Saint Laurent’s style has that perfect mix of rebellion, rawness, and sophistication that I absolutely love. Their designs are timeless yet daring, which speaks to the kind of contrast I like to bring into my own style. It’s about creating something classic but never afraid to push boundaries, and that aligns perfectly with my approach to fashion and storytelling.

AN What makes Saint Laurent so timeless and appealing to fashion-forward individuals like yourself?

VH Saint Laurent’s appeal lies in its fearless combination of boldness, sophistication, and an unapologetic attitude. It’s a brand that constantly pushes boundaries yet remains timeless—a rare balance that resonates deeply with me. Saint Laurent has this way of being daring without losing elegance, bringing a sense of drama and power that feels magnetic. It’s for individuals who don’t just want to fit in but want to stand out with confidence and a hint of edge. That blend of sophistication and audacity is what keeps Saint Laurent endlessly relevant and inspiring.

Credits

Photographer and Co-Creative Direction by Jacques Burga (www.instagram.com/jacquesburga)

Co-Creative Direction by Thomas Szadek (www.instagram.com/thomszad)

Stylist by Eline Hoyois (www.instagram.com/elinehoyois)

Make up by Lili Choi (www.instagram.com/lilichoimakeup)

Hair by Olivier Lebrun (www.instagram.com/0livierlebrun)

Mannequin Homme , Victor Grolleau at NEXT Models (www.instagram.com/victorbelike)

Production by Manon Guilbert at BLAZE Paris / A Creative Partner  (www.instagram.com/manonchoubidou)

Photo Assistant Matei Focs (www.instagram.com/mat.focs)

Production Assistant Maelle Treuillé