Beauty is something that I am very fortunate to have," says Daria Werbowy - the new face of Lancôme. "But I think people respond the most to what you have in your mind and where you want to go with that." Born in Poland and brought up in Canada, Werbowy's career began at the tender age of 14 when she won a modelling contest and went on to sign with IMG Models NY. A slow start and several rejections later, she began to take stock of the difficulties of the business and embarked on a journey to develop a strong mental outlook. In January 2003, she recounts, "I changed. I was stronger and more sure of myself. I wanted to work!" Marc Jacobs, Prada and the rest were soon to follow.

A few months ago, over a 'formal but informal' meeting, besides their perception of beauty, Daria and Lancôme realised that they had a lot in common and so decided to take this newfound relationship to a whole new level. "I am an honest person. I don't like superficial things and believe in what they do," says Werbowy, of the brand. "Lancôme talks to all women worldwide, irrespective of their age and their ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Its vision of femininity is elegant, sensitive and generous. It goes straight to the heart of women."

Part of the L'Oréal luxury division and recently launched in India, Lancôme already has its share of fans among young discerning women. Expectations rise as they announce their plans to grow across the country, but we are reassured by the dreamy and charming Werbowy. Hypnôse, their new fragrance is just one of the Lancôme products that are on her must-have list. Dual toned, the precious case contains in it a liquid that has a soft feminine side followed by a boldly sensual one.