The gifted Bruna Tenório is an international top model who walked the runway for designers like Chanel, Christian Dior and Dolce & Gabbana. She was born in Brazil, and she now lives in New York. Bruna has also created her own Jewelry brand named “Bruna Tenorió Jewelry” and makes timeless, yet modern pieces of jewelry to be worn and loved. With Felipe – her husband – they have a son called Gael. She is the Josefina of July.
Can you tell us how did you start modeling? What was your first big runaway?
I was discovered in my hometown in Brazil, while a scout from a modeling agency in Sao Paulo was there for vacation. He brought me back to Sao Paulo with my Mom and that's when everything started. A few months
later I traveled to Hong Kong for my first job, then I walked the runway at Sao Paulo Fashion Week. It was an instant hit at the shows which led me to New York where I signed with my first agency. My first international runway season I walked for over 50 shows like Chanel, Dior, Versace, Marc Jacobs, Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry, Louis, Vuitton, Givenchy, Hermès, Armani, among others.
What inspired you to create your own brand? Could you tell us more about the values?
After 10 years working as a model, I wanted to start trying to do something else, that could work parallel with my work in fashion, and decided to study jewellery design. I learned the techniques of handmade jewellery, wax carving, metal smiting and stone setting.
I loved the idea of being able to create something I really love
and that had my DNA. So I decided to create my own jewellery line called Bruna Tenório Jewelry.
What do you like the most about your work?
Definitely the best part is being able to travel around the world. I am also very grateful for being able to buy my first apartment at a very young age. Also to support my family back in Brazil.
You became a mom for the first time in 2020, what do you like the most about parenthood?
It’s much more than I expected. There’s so much love involved. Waking up to that beautiful and innocent smile is the best part for sure.
How did you take care of yourself during pregnancy (nutrition, sport, skincare)?
During pregnancy I ate super healthy and did Pilates + yoga with an awesome instructor, Sarah Ghilardi, she really made a huge difference in my well-being during that time. Also, I was taking my vitamins periodically, every day. I also think it’s super important to continue with your multivitamin supplements after the birth.
How do you manage to balance motherhood with your top model job, your Jewelry brand and your everyday life?
It’s hard to find the balance, I’m not gonna lie. Some days I don’t find that balance at all. My routine has changed completely. I work on my jewelry line during his naps, and when I’m shooting in a studio, he stays with daddy, since he can also work from home.
How did you style during pregnancy? Do you have any tips for other moms?
Definitely. COMFORT was the priority and still is. It also needed to be practical, specially when it comes to breastfeeding, even at home. I’m all about masculine button down shirts, linen dresses or a sweatshirt and pants. Also, always wear flats or running sneakers.
What is your favorite kid-friendly vacation destination?
I recently went to DR, Las Terenas and totally recommend it. My son was learning how to walk and he definitely improved after walking in sand all day in that trip. We have beautiful memories from that place.
Which Josefina bag do you have? What does it contain?
Josefina Large black. It’s the most amazing and chic travel bag when you have a baby. It fits everything you need in there, for you and you little one. All very well divided and organized!!!
Who inspires you as a mum and how?
Ofcourse my mom, and also my grandmother. I grow up with a huge presence of my grandparents and it really made me who I am today.