Model Diaries with Elisabetta Canalis
Where were you born?
I was born in Sardinia, one of the most beautiful islands in Italy.
How do you typically start your mornings?
I wake up early because I work on the European time zone. By 5 AM, I’m already up. I have my coffee and yogurt, then start phone calls until 7. It’s like a military routine because I have to get my daughter ready for school.
What’s something you always pack when traveling from Italy to L.A.?
My dogs, lol! I travel with them as much as I can. Besides that, I always pack the same backpack—I never forget melatonin, electrolytes, a good small camera, and a book.
Favorite place in Sardinia that feels like a hidden gem?
My favorite place is Alghero, a very old town in the northeast part of the island. I recommend everyone visit—it’s full of tradition and history, and the food is incredible.
What's your current obsession?
Right now, I’m obsessed with Power Curls by a brand called Lesser Evil. I know I shouldn’t name brands, but they’re the only ones I eat when I need a gluten-free snack.
How would you describe “Italian Girl Style”?
We try to look as simple and low-key as we can, but there’s a lot of thought behind it—at least for me. We love classics—not basic, but something versatile and elegant at the same time.
What’s one fashion trend you wish would come back—and one you wish would stay in the past?
Let’s start with what I hope stays in the past: furs and exotic skins. I truly hope cruelty has no future in fashion. As for comebacks, I don’t really miss any specific trend—I think nowadays everyone embraces their own personal style, which I love.
Who’s the most iconic Italian actress of all time in your eyes?
Sophia Loren—an icon. And Monica Bellucci—a goddess.
What’s your secret to staying camera-ready on the red carpet?
Wearing makeup that’s not too greasy or heavy—because you never know if you’ll have a chance to touch up, or how the lights and weather will behave.
What's one role you would love to play that you haven’t yet?
An action role! I’ve trained in martial arts for many years, and I’d love a role like Uma Thurman’s in Kill Bill.
What’s your proudest moment so far?
Any time I can help someone less fortunate—whether people or animals. It gives me peace and happiness. Sometimes, helping others is better than therapy.
What’s your favorite Italian dish to cook at home?
Red shrimp pasta! My secret sauce is a little spicy—delicious!
Most memorable moment from your time on Striscia la Notizia?
The friendship with my co-host and everything I learned from the writers and directors. Being on a daily show for three years is intense, but it gave me so much in terms of growth and success.
What’s your guilty pleasure TV show?
The First 48 Hours was my guilty pleasure when I first arrived in the U.S. In Italy, we could never produce a show like that—cameras would never be allowed in police stations. I found it so intriguing.
You’ve done modeling, hosting, acting—what’s next?
Maybe returning to my first love—horseback riding—and dedicating more of my life to that. I love reinventing myself!
If you weren’t in entertainment, what career would you pursue?
I’d probably be a forensic psychologist. I’ve always been fascinated by criminal behavior and mental health in legal contexts.
Favorite Italian designer?
Giorgio Armani is the symbol of Italian style and creativity. Of course, we have many amazing designers, but Armani embodies timeless elegance.
What’s one beauty ritual you never skip?
Red LED light therapy.
What are your top 5 must-have beauty products?
1. Retinol cream
2. Toner
3. Lotion
4. Night cream
5. Eye contour cream
Favorite way to unwind?
Putting my phone on airplane mode and biking with my dog.
Summer holiday plans?
Sardinia with my family.
What does la dolce vita mean to you today?
It means sitting at sunset in a beautiful oceanfront restaurant—probably in Positano—wearing a Zimmermann dress with a glass of champagne in hand.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
To be careful with certain people… I should have listened earlier! (lol)
What’s something your fans might not know about you?
I’m really good at cleaning and organizing—especially cabinets and storage. I’m a Virgo!
Why are you excited to be on the cover of Modeliste magazine?
I’m so excited because I love the magazine’s style. I couldn’t be prouder to be on the cover—especially since this time it’s for an American magazine. I love it!
