What do Sicily, skincare, and the Sistine Chapel have in common? Entrepreneur Irene Forte finds inspiration in them all. As the founder of Irene Forte Skincare, she’s built a brand that merges the best of nature and science, with many of her ingredients sourced straight from the organic farm at her family's Sicilian resort. This month, we sat down with Irene to get her insider take on scaling a business, the skincare essentials she never travels without, and what makes Sicily the ultimate escape for both mind and body.

01   WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR INSPIRATION?

I take inspiration from all sorts of places, but Sicily is particularly inspirational for me. I first visited Sicily in 2003, exploring the land that would later become Verdura Resort, home to our organic farm and many of our skincare ingredients. I fell in love with the island’s rich culture, the coast, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. The people, the traditions, the incredible food — there’s simply nothing like it.

02   TELL US ABOUT A "PINCH ME" MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE.

There have been a number. From a work perspective, just launching Irene Forte Skincare and seeing it being used on customers! Later down the line, launching with some amazing retailers globally — including the likes of Liberty and Bergdorf Goodman —  and winning prestigious awards, such as New Beauty and Get the Gloss. Most recently, securing growth investment from L Catterton, the world’s largest consumer-focused fund.

03  WHERE IS YOUR GREAT ESCAPE?

Verdura Resort: this is my absolute favourite place to go, located on the south west coast of Sicily. This resort is on 230 hectares of olive groves and Sicilian countryside, bordering 1.2 miles of coastline. I worked here, have our organic farm here, it's home to our biggest Irene Forte Spa, and I also did my wedding here, making it extra special to me. 

04 WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU'VE RECEIVED?

My father has always told me that the business world is tough and, without working hard and giving it your all, you will never succeed.

05 DO YOU HAVE A GOOD LUCK CHARM OR HEIRLOOM?

I always have this piece of red coral from Sicily with me. 

06 WHAT IS THE BEST GIFT YOU'VE RECEIVED?

My engagement ring (if that counts!).  

07 WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE ARTIST?

I love the Renaissance — Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel is one of the most exceptional things I've ever seen.

08 WHAT IS ON YOUR WISH LIST THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?

I'm seeking out the sun this Christmas, so I'm eyeing up some Dôen dresses, a Posse coordinating linen set, a Lido swimsuit, and YSSO's Anemone Earrings and Thousand Ships necklace.

09 WHAT ITEMS DO YOU NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT? 

Unsurprisingly, Irene Forte Skincare! I always travel with my Almond Cleansing Milk — it contains Pro-Vitamin B5 and Aloe Leaf Juice to help hydrate, calm and soothe the skin — Triple Level Hyaluronic Serum for the day, and Phytomelatonin Rejuvenating Serum for the night. 

*Irene Forte will be collaborating with YSSO for our Christmas Pop-Up in Notting Hill this December 2024.