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Talking Heads – Riccardo Ruggeri

Photographer Jaap Strijker at EE Agency – Fashion Editor Eren Gedik – Model Riccardo Ruggeri at Brooks Modeling Agency – Grooming by Irena Ruben at House Of Orange Agency – Casting by Ezgi Onen – Photography Assistant Eliza KaniaFashion – Fashion Assistant İdil Çepni – Interview by Melania Musci // Total Look Ferragamo

Who was the first person to see you as a potential model?
I think I’ve alwaysmodellingeone who looks for new stimuli and challenges. After finishing my Bachelor’s, I felt the need to explore different paths, so I gave both modelling and theatre a try. Honestly, I’m really glad I made these choices. I had good feedback in both experiences, and they became important signs for me—they made me realise how crucial it is to truly listen to yourself and follow what you hear. Both paths have taught me so much about myself, about the world around me and what I really want for my life.

What do you like most about your job?
What I really love about what I do is the people. I’m surrounded by creatives, each with their own unique story, and that’s incredibly inspiring. It constantly reminds me that life doesn’t have to follow one rigid path—there are infinite ways to live, and that’s the beauty of it. Just like theatre, modelling has helped me discover parts of myself I didn’t even know were there, little pieces of me that were still hidden.

Total Look Loro Piana / Total Look Céline Homme

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from a challenging experience in your modelling career?
One of the biggest lessons for me has been acceptance—learning to build on top of whatever life throws at you. I’ve always been someone who knows how to be alone, probably because of certain life experiences that shaped me. But modelling really amplifies that side of life; we travel alone a lot, and it pushes you to get comfortable with yourself. I honestly believe that learning to enjoy your own company is one of the most valuable steps toward truly appreciating the world and the people around you.

What’s your go-to outfit?
Dark sneakers, loose-fitting pants, a white T-shirt with an overshirt or a jacket—that’s my go-to. Honestly, I don’t even know why, but I really believe that wearing something you feel good in helps you feel good inside. It kind of supports how we feel, and I guess that’s one of the most important things.

Total Look Louis Vuitton

Total Look Dsquared2 / Total Look Dries van Noten – Shoes Loro Piana

How do you like to spend your free time?
I’m super easy-going. I love spending time with the people I care about—my family, who I love, and my friends. I’m happiest when I can dive into nature, soaking in all the little feelings and moments it gives us. Reading, writing, going for a walk or a run—all of these keep me grounded. But I’m also the person who loves a big dinner with friends or going out dancing at the club. I guess I just love the balance between being alone and connecting with others. And as I said, I think that’s the real secret: being able to enjoy both sides and take the best from each. That’s life.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I’m definitely a morning person. There’s something so special about waking up when the rest of the world is still asleep and watching the day slowly come to life. It feels like you get to have the whole world to yourself for a little while, and I really cherish that quiet time.

Total Look Loro Piana / Total Look Dries van Noten – Shoes Loro Piana

Do you prefer texting or talking on the phone?
I have to admit—I’m terrible at answering messages (but I’m working on it). I prefer talking on the phone. It feels more present, more intentional—I like to fully dedicate that moment to the person I’m speaking with and then move on to the next thing. With texting, I always feel like I’m halfway connected, always reachable… and honestly, that’s not really my thing. Maybe, it’s also because I’m honestly a disaster at multitasking.

What place would you love to visit?
One place I really want to visit is South America. There’s a special person in Cali who had a huge impact on my life, and I want to see and experience the world and the life of this person, and feel the energy of that place. I was actually close to going, but then a big job opportunity came up and kept me busy for months. So, for now, those plans are on hold—but still very, very much alive inside me.

Total Look Gucci / Total Look Dries van Noten

Total Look Dsquared2 / Total Look Gucci

Total Look Loro Piana