Linda Rodin needs no introduction—but here’s a primer on her legendary career, just in case. The model and stylist changed the face of beauty (ha) in 2007 when she launched RODIN olio lusso, a luxury face oil that she first blended in her kitchen. The product inspired a cult of fashion insiders and became the crown jewel in her growing skincare empire, which Estee Lauder eventually acquired. She has since modeled for The Row and Helmut Lang, created a line of dog accessories, and launched Linda Hopp, a line of dark denim pieces named after her former SoHo boutique.
We checked in with the living legend to talk about her inimitable style, lessons learned from her mother, and the one step in her beauty routine she can’t miss. Oh, and her beloved dog, Romy.
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What does 'home' feel like to you?
"For me home is being surrounded by all the things in my life that give me pleasure. From paintings, photos, lovely ceramics and to all of the pieces I’ve collected over these many years. And of course, a home for me is not a home without my delicious silver poodle, Romy."
Who are the important women or matriarchs in your life?
"Definitely my mother."
From style and beauty to art and intuition, what lessons did your mother impart that you keep with you?
"My mother was not only beautiful, funny, and smart, but she was extremely talented and unstoppably creative. She was an interior designer, a sculptress, had an antique shop, designed hats and just was always ahead of the curve."
Your home is a maximalist dream. How did you develop your taste? And what’s the one item you’d keep if you got rid of everything else?
"My taste developed naturally, having watched my mother do her thing and also from a lot of travel—but it’s always been similar. I love ceramics, color, art and books! My home is filled with so many things I’ve collected for so so many years. I could never just keep one item. I am a very sentimental person so I have to keep many many things."
“One’s idea of beauty has to change as one gets older. You have to be kinder to yourself and embrace the aging process. It is not easy but it is unavoidable.”
What’s the one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
"Enjoy your youth! It won’t last forever."
What’s the one, non-negotiable, can't-live-without step in your self-care routine?
"Perfume."
Your dog is an (adorable) extension of you. What is the most luxurious thing you pamper them with?
"Love."
As a beauty entrepreneur and lifelong New Yorker, how do you 'come home to yourself’?
"That is so easy and so lovely for me, because when I walk in the door of my home, I’m surrounded by all of the things I love."
Linda's Ritual:
