Gia Coppola, a filmmaker of notable lineage, has successfully carved her own niche in the cinematic landscape. Despite growing up surrounded by celebrated figures in the film industry, she candidly reflects on early struggles with self-doubt and the perception of her inexperience. It wasn't until she embraced motherhood that she found a deeper sense of security and validation, which propelled her forward in her artistic pursuits.
Coppola's directorial path began with 'Palo Alto' in 2013, a film adaptation of James Franco's short stories, marking her independent entry into the industry. Her more recent project, 'The Last Showgirl,' starring Pamela Anderson, garnered significant critical praise, earning nominations for both the Golden Globes and SAG Awards, further solidifying her reputation as a formidable storyteller.
Beyond the camera, Coppola's individuality shines through her distinctive fashion choices. She finds inspiration in a wide array of sources, from fashion icons like Alexa Chung to skateboarding legends such as Mark Gonzales, highlighting her eclectic taste. Her approach to shopping is equally thoughtful, prioritizing items that hold both practical value and sentimental meaning, whether it's a vintage camera or a custom-engraved comb for a loved one from Officine Universelle Buly in Paris.
Gia Coppola favors a pragmatic yet personal uniform for her demanding days on set. Her go-to ensemble includes comfortable Vans sneakers—a nod to her father's influence and a connection to family—paired with relaxed trousers, a cozy sweater, and a hoodie. This blend of comfort and a subtle touch of personal history defines her professional wardrobe.
Coppola expresses a profound fascination with Las Vegas, describing it as an extraordinary American city that has long sparked her artistic curiosity. She harbored a desire to create a film set there and finally had the opportunity to immerse herself in the city's unique atmosphere during the production of 'The Last Showgirl.' However, experiencing Vegas as a new mother presented a different, unexpected reality compared to her initial imaginings.
Her connection with designer Alessandro Michele began with an invitation to his inaugural Gucci show. Coppola deeply values their friendship, recognizing Michele not just as a designer but as an exceptional artist whose creativity and dedication to his craft continually amaze her. Their shared moments, from casual pizza nights to profound discussions on art, life, and the daily grind, underscore a genuine bond that transcends professional boundaries.
Coppola's sartorial muses are surprisingly diverse and often found in the everyday. She draws inspiration from people she encounters on the street or among her friends. A striking example was a production assistant in Paris whose unique combination of sporty Zara flats and a whimsical Comme des Garçons skirt immediately caught her eye. This anecdote highlights her openness to unexpected sources of style and her willingness to adapt appealing looks, even playfully noting that she wishes innovative children's fashion were available for adults.
For Gia, her inaugural significant acquisition was a high-quality camera. The purchase of her first vintage Contax T3 marked a thrilling and unique moment, representing a considerable splurge that brought her immense satisfaction. This particular camera, now highly sought after, signifies a pivotal investment in her artistic passion.
Coppola recalls a period in her late twenties characterized by a phase of rebellion expressed through her fashion choices, including multi-colored hair and thrift store finds. While acknowledging the unconventional nature of this era, she views it as a necessary step in her personal development, a time of intense partying and self-discovery that ultimately allowed her to outgrow those impulses.
Her aspirational purchase is a Chanel handbag, ideally in a vibrant hue. Coppola believes that a distinctive bag possesses the power to elevate any ensemble, making even the most casual outfit appear stylish and polished, asserting its role as a fundamental accessory in creating a fashionable impression.
Coppola finds immense pleasure in selecting meaningful gifts for her loved ones. She recounts a visit to Officine Universelle Buly, drawn by the unexpected presence of many teenagers—a phenomenon she later discovered was due to Taylor Swift's patronage. There, she chose a personalized comb for her grandfather's birthday, an item that brought him great joy, and elegant Charvet cufflinks for her uncle, illustrating her inclination towards unique and personalized presents.