Nadja Auermann, the iconic supermodel, graces the fall ad campaign for Ports 1961, a luxury womenswear label known for its nomadic theme and old-school glamour. Photographed by the renowned British photographer Rankin, Auermann embodies the globetrotting diva in a series of color and black-and-white images that showcase her life on the move and chic attitude. The campaign aligns with the nomadic theme of the fall 2026 collection, rooted in the brand's original ethos, which its founder, Canadian entrepreneur Luke Tanabe, famously summarized as, 'I dream of having breakfast in the Sahara and dinner in New York.'
Auermann's connection to Ports 1961 goes back to February when she attended the brand's fall presentation during Milan Fashion Week. The brand described her as the embodiment of 'contemporary elegance rooted in precision, restraint, and enduring sophistication.'
The campaign features Auermann in various settings, from walking out of a vintage convertible in a dramatic coat with an integrated scarf to looking at her reflection in a mirror, adjusting a gray double-breasted blazer. These moments, as Auermann explains, are often the most authentic, where self-reflection happens in the quiet spaces between chapters. She emphasizes the importance of atmosphere, emotion, and authenticity in memorable images, capturing something that cannot be manufactured.
Ports 1961, originally inspired by travel, has evolved into a full-fledged luxury womenswear label. The brand operates three flagship stores in Milan, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, with Francesco Bertolini as its design director since 2024. Bertolini's promotion followed his five-year tenure at the brand, succeeding Karl Templer, who held the role of artistic director until 2022.
In my opinion, the collaboration between Nadja Auermann and Ports 1961 is a testament to the brand's ability to capture the essence of contemporary elegance and the nomadic spirit. Auermann's presence in the campaign not only showcases her timeless beauty but also adds a layer of authenticity and emotion, making the images truly memorable. This collaboration is a perfect example of how a supermodel's presence can elevate a fashion brand's message and appeal to a global audience.
