Shot in Auguste for our latest Spring campaign ‘Grace’, Helena Vestergaard is an international model, a new mother and a woman with big dreams – the perfect face for a collection that celebrates womanhood. We spoke with the Australian beauty about her daughter River, false stereotypes, and family values.
Read the interview below.
Tell us about becoming a mother. Have you always imagined a future with children?
I have always wanted to have kids but I never thought I would have my first this quick. It is the best thing I have ever done though and I am the happiest I have ever been as a mother to my little bundle of joy, River.
What’s the greatest lesson your little one has taught you?
Patience.
Can you think of any other stereotypes about motherhood we would be better off without?
Yes, I can think of two. The first is that mothers can't be "sexy". I think people are very quick to judge a “sexy” photograph of a woman that is a mother, when quite frankly now is the perfect time to celebrate your body and be proud of all it is capable of. Secondly, that mothers should always put their children first. This never makes sense because a happy relaxed mother will be more likely to raise happy relaxed children. So if you need to take an hour to do yoga or get a massage or even just to zone out and watch your favourite TV show, I say go for it. Like on an aeroplane, you always put your mask on first then you are able to help others.
And what values do you hope to teach her?
The values that I try to live by myself. Family, kindness and love. Vanity is never an important thing.
"I think people are very quick to judge a “sexy” photograph of a woman that is a mother, when quite frankly now is the perfect time to celebrate your body and be proud of all it is capable of."
- HELENA VESTERGAARD, MODEL, MOTHER & WOMAN
As a working mother, there’s this stereotype that women have to ‘juggle’ a career with a family. How has motherhood driven you both professionally and creatively?
I have never been as motivated to do things as I am now that I am a mother. She inspired me to start up my own online store,Pour Le Bien. She has given me confidence in so many aspects and I never feel like I am juggling... motherhood is just multitasking at its finest.
And finally, what kind of future do you wish to shape for your family?
