Floral inspiration for Life Ball Mini 2012

A special car to befit a special occasion: Franca Sozzani, Chief Editor of Italian VOGUE, has designed and presented her very own Mini model exclusively to mark the 20th anniversary of the charity event. The model in question is a Mini Roadster, the first
open-top two-seater in the brand’s history. The one-off creation, which went under the auctioneer’s hammer at the AIDS Solidarity Gala and raised a donation total of 54,000 euros for HIV projects, left the audience of around 43,000 in no doubt: this is set to be a sporty, feminine summer. Franca Sozzani decorated the roof of the 184 hp Mini Roadster – which has a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph) – in a stylishly intricate floral design which, in combination with very 'of the moment' Deepest Purple matt paintwork and gold hallmark Mini rally stripes, produced an impressively complete work of art. Inside the car, lavishly printed leather for the instruments and brass-coloured touches on the circular elements add the icing on the cake. The most influential woman in the Italian fashion scene, herself an avid Mini driver, gave her creativity free reign in the design of the special one-off model.

 
“The concept behind the Mini customisation is inspired by the beautiful and elegant women who in the past used to wear a scarf draped around their head when driving a convertible,” says Sozzani, citing her inspiration. And, as the UN Goodwill Ambassador for Fashion 4 Development adds, “Flowers are a symbol of joy and life. And the Life Ball is always fighting for life and joy.”

Posted in: 20th Anniversary,Charity,Editor,Franca Sozzani,International,Life Ball,Luxury,Mini,Mini Roadster,Small Car,VOGUE