"Gucci is the word that best describes who I am right now." - Aespa Ningning

Last May, aespa Ningning walked the Met Gala red carpet for the first time as a Gucci global brand ambassador. Attending the world's largest fashion event in a custom dress made exclusively for her, she immediately set out to shoot Gucci's new campaign, 'Beauty and the Bag,' creating another impressive moment. This campaign highlights the handbag not merely as an accessory, but as an object that embodies desire, beauty, and attitude. Ningning showcased her own intense yet natural charm alongside the Gucci Paparazzo bag, the star of the campaign, and stated that she experienced a special bond as a member of the Gucci family on set. From memories of the Met Gala to her attitude toward fashion, and her dream of one day walking the Gucci runway—what word best describes the Ningning of today? Bazaar reveals the exclusive story shared with Ningning.

Q1. I would like to know your thoughts on joining this new chapter of the 'Beauty and the Bag' campaign.

Ningning: It is a great honour to join the Gucci family. Thanks to the warm care taken by the Gucci team and all the staff during the shoot, I was able to enjoy the work. I still use the Paparazzo bag frequently these days, and every time I see it, it reminds me of the good energy from that time and makes me feel good.

Q2. 'Beauty and the Bag' speaks to the instinctive connection between objects and desire. What meaning does a special bag hold for Ningning?

Ningning: As the campaign suggests, a handbag is not just a simple object to me. It is closer to a presence naturally connected to my daily life. I think of it as a way to honestly and stylishly express my instinctive yearning for beauty and my inner desires.

 

Q3. Please tell us about the most memorable moment or episode from the campaign shoot.

Ningning: I attended the Met Gala the day before and proceeded with the shoot the very next day. From the Met Gala to the campaign shoot, Demna and the entire Gucci team took meticulous care of my well-being. Thanks to that, I felt like we grew closer. Seeing everyone approach the shoot with such passion, without showing any signs of fatigue despite their busy schedules, gave me a lot of energy as well.

Q4. In the images for this campaign, Ningning displays both intense and natural charms simultaneously. Was there a specific mood or inspiration you referenced while shooting?

Ningning: Rather than forcing something out, I wanted the bag and me to naturally feel like one. Instead of referencing a specific mood, I tried to be true to myself in every moment. I think the intensity wasn't something I intentionally created either, but rather the result of naturally following when I surrendered to the energy of the set.

Q5. What do you think is the most appealing aspect of the Gucci Paparazzo bag, the star of this campaign?

Ningning: I think the biggest charm is its versatility, as it features a classic design yet naturally fits into any look. It is something I often feel while using it myself; it is a bag that retains Gucci's timeless vibe while also possessing a luxurious texture, a beautiful silhouette, and practicality.

Q6. What do you usually consider the most important factor when choosing a bag?

Ningning: Design, practicality, and texture are all important to me. So much so that I can't give up on any of them. If I had to pick one more thing, I think it would be whether I can keep it for a long time. I am drawn to bags that don't go out of style and look fashionable whenever I carry them. In that sense, the Gucci Paparazzo bag fits my taste perfectly.

Q7. What are the style differences between Ningning on stage and in everyday life?

Ningning: On stage, I tend to show a more intense and visual style that matches the song's concept and performance. On the other hand, in my daily life, I enjoy wearing comfortable yet minimal styles. Sometimes, I also try out bold and witty styles like Demna.

Q8. What was the most meaningful moment you experienced while working as a Gucci global brand ambassador?

Ningning: Every moment I have spent with Gucci is precious, but the most unforgettable experience was my first-ever Met Gala. I think I will remember for a long time the process of completing the one-of-a-kind custom Gucci dress made just for me, and the moment I stood on the red carpet wearing it. It was also special to be able to have an in-depth conversation about fashion with Demna at the subsequent Met Gala dinner. I hope to continue creating many more memories with Gucci in the future.

Q9. What are the brand's charms or values that you have newly discovered while working with Gucci?

Ningning: The greatest charm of Gucci is that while it possesses a long heritage, it does not remain confined within it. I was impressed by how it reinterprets various codes from its history spanning over 100 years to suit the present era. I felt that this sense of balance—respecting tradition while never being afraid to try new things—resembles the direction I pursue in my music and on stage. I also believe that the 'Gucciness' Demna speaks of is closer to an attitude and spirit rather than a specific style. Above all, the strong sense of family is also special.

Q10. Fashion is also a language for self-expression. What style best describes the current Ningning?

Ningning: Gucci. (Laughs) It is difficult to define fashion in a single word, but I think the most important thing is the synergy created when the attitude of the clothes meets the attitude of the person. I think the most perfect synergy is created when my own energy is added to Gucci's unique design codes.

Q11. What is Ningning's unique driving force that allows her to maintain confidence despite her busy schedule?

Ningning: Music, fashion, love. And the beauty of the world I haven't seen yet.

Q12. What new side of Ningning would you like fans to discover through this campaign?

Ningning: Wild beauty. (Laughs)

Q13. Please tell us about any projects you would like to take on with Gucci in the future or any moments you dream of.

Ningning: I’m already looking forward to every moment we will create together as part of the Gucci family. I want to work on various projects, and someday, I’d love to try a really hip collaboration that combines my musical style with Gucci’s vibe. (Laughs) And I definitely want to walk the Gucci runway at least once.

Credit: Photo/Brand provided

This article is originally from harperbazaar.co.kr in June 2026

Lead image: The brand 

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