Padma Lakshmi is turning heads and redefining beauty standards with her recent appearance in the 2025 Pirelli Calendar. Unveiled at London’s Natural History Museum, this year’s theme, “Refresh and Reveal,” captures Lakshmi’s empowered elegance and her journey of self-acceptance. At 54, the former Top Chef host, best-selling author, and activist stands as a testament to confidence, courage, and a love for life.
Padma Lakshmi’s Bold Debut in the Pirelli Calendar
In her much-anticipated debut for the iconic Pirelli Calendar, Padma Lakshmi dazzles in two memorable photoshoots. Styled by Tonne Goodman and photographed by Ethan James Green, she embraces both her sensuality and elegance in stunning settings. In one photo, she’s draped in a sheer, gauzy dress, revealing just enough to keep the viewer enchanted. Another photo finds her halfway submerged at Miami’s Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, wearing a wet, white tee that clings to her silhouette.
This isn’t just about showcasing beauty—it’s about embracing it fully. Lakshmi, who shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of the shoot in August, is thrilled to fulfill her long-held dream of gracing the prestigious calendar. As she described, “I felt beautiful, cared for, safe, and elegant throughout the shoot. This was an experience that brought out my serenity.”
Redefining Beauty: Lakshmi’s Views on Nudity and Empowerment
Lakshmi’s approach to nudity in this photoshoot is deliberate and thought-provoking. In a candid interview that accompanies the calendar, she spoke about how societal perceptions of nudity have evolved over the years, especially post-MeToo. Reflecting on her modeling career that began in the 1990s, she remarked, “It’s hard. I was modeling in a freer time, and society has grown more conservative. Some of that change is necessary, but I don’t believe nudity should be feared. A woman’s body is one of nature’s most beautiful creations.”
Her words resonate with an empowered outlook. As Lakshmi confidently stated, “I am fully in command of my body and how I look.” Her approach signals a new era, where she embraces herself as she is, without apology. This project allowed her to reflect the strength and serenity she feels at this stage of her life.
A Message of Self-Confidence and Body Positivity
For Lakshmi, the 2025 Pirelli Calendar represents more than an opportunity to showcase her beauty—it’s a statement of self-assurance. Speaking with People, she shared that she felt a sense of empowerment, adding, “Maybe 30 years ago, I would have felt vulnerable, but now I feel fully in control.” She describes the photoshoot experience as liberating, a true expression of her journey toward self-acceptance.
Her reflections extend to her personal life, particularly in how she views her body and self-image today. Lakshmi expressed her contentment with how she looks and feels, openly acknowledging, “I’m more confident now, physically and otherwise. And I wouldn’t trade this confidence for the appearance of my 20s.”
Inspiring the Next Generation: Lakshmi’s Message to Her Daughter
Lakshmi’s confidence and approach to body image go beyond herself—they’re values she hopes to impart to her daughter, Krishna. In the interview, she revealed that she couldn’t wait to share the stunning images with her 14-year-old. She wants Krishna to see and appreciate womanhood in all its stages. “They’re beautiful,” she said of the photos, adding that she’s always honest with her daughter, encouraging her to embrace her body as it changes and matures.
Lakshmi believes in fostering an environment of self-acceptance at home, where her daughter can witness firsthand the beauty and grace that comes with every age. By being open with her daughter in an age-appropriate way, she hopes Krishna will grow up with a balanced perspective on beauty, confidence, and self-worth.
Breaking Barriers: Lakshmi Joins a Star-Studded Cast
The Pirelli Calendar, famous for capturing iconic beauty, also features other stunning stars this year, including Hunter Schafer, Simone Ashley, and Jodie Turner-Smith. But Lakshmi’s inclusion is especially significant. Known for her grace, wit, and commitment to advocating for social justice, she adds depth and diversity to this edition. Her photos and interview offer a fresh perspective on what it means to be comfortable in one’s skin, no matter one’s age.
This year’s theme, “Refresh and Reveal,” beautifully aligns with Lakshmi’s journey, capturing her as a figure of elegance and empowerment. The calendar emphasizes that beauty isn’t limited by age but rather enhanced by experience and self-love.
Lakshmi’s Journey to Self-Acceptance
This isn’t the first time Padma Lakshmi has embraced her natural beauty in front of the camera. Last year, she made waves by donning a seashell bikini for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, where her confidence and radiance left a lasting impression. She also launched a lingerie line with Bare Necessities, and during a promotional interview, she shared her journey toward body positivity. “I’m happy with where I am now,” she said, explaining that she appreciates her current self more than she did in her youth.
Lakshmi’s candidness about her relationship with her body is a powerful example for women everywhere. She isn’t striving for perfection; rather, she values self-respect and joy over societal standards. Her openness helps redefine beauty for women who feel pressured to fit into certain molds. Her journey shows that beauty shines brightest when paired with confidence and authenticity.
Redefining Beauty Standards Through Empowerment
Lakshmi’s work with Pirelli, her advocacy for body positivity, and her dedication to authenticity are all part of a larger cultural movement. More than ever, people are challenging outdated beauty standards and embracing their unique features. Through projects like the Pirelli Calendar, public figures like Lakshmi encourage individuals to appreciate their bodies and experiences as they are, rather than pursuing idealized or unrealistic expectations.
By modeling in the Pirelli Calendar at age 54, Lakshmi sends a powerful message: beauty transcends age, and confidence is timeless. Her participation demonstrates that empowerment and grace can coexist with boldness, challenging the conventional beauty norms in the industry.
Conclusion: Padma Lakshmi’s Inspiring Legacy of Confidence and Beauty
Padma Lakshmi’s appearance in the 2025 Pirelli Calendar is more than a stunning photoshoot—it’s an invitation to rethink what we define as beauty. Her journey from a 1990s model to an empowered woman and mother serves as a reminder that true beauty grows from self-assurance and inner peace.
By embracing her body, sharing her wisdom, and inspiring the next generation, Lakshmi has become a role model for those who seek to live confidently at every age. Her message is clear: beauty, elegance, and empowerment are not restricted to youth. With grace, she has proven that confidence, compassion, and authenticity are the most beautiful traits of all.
