Our Cover Star struts like a haiku—each step a syllable of grace. She wears her quirks like badges of honor, flaunting them with a wink and a mischievous grin.
Team Credits:
Model: Hannah Widmer @hannah.r.widmer
Photographer: Lori Sapio @lori_sapio_photographer
MUA and Hair: Heather Stainback @_heatherstainback
Stylist: Nasreen Hussain @humansofhighfashion
Style Assistant: Ainsley Jahr
Retouch: @daretouch
Meet Hannah Widmer, a saddle seat enchantress riding high on the backs of spirited horses, while her heart is a palette—a riot of colors waiting to burst forth. As an avid watercolor painter, her brushstrokes capture whispered secrets with beholding authenticity as her compass. She is a potion brewed from empathy and creativity! And beneath her cheekbones that could cut glass, also lies her stride in a manifesto. All in all, she’s a philosopher in riding boots, pondering life’s mysteries. Want to know more? Read the entire conversation we had with her!
Jewellery: Susanne Siegel @susannesiegeljewelry
Dress: Alice and Olivia @aliceandolivia
Shoes: Christian Louboutin @louboutinworld
Welcome to L’Officiel India! We wanted to know what being an equestrian means to you personally and how it has shaped your life and perspective.
In every sense, modelling is similar to riding a Saddlebred. It is the thrill of a lifetime. Both riding and modelling are challenging, always pushing us to be better. It takes confidence, passion, the inner fire that comes from the soul, and determination. What draws me to both of these careers is my emphasis on being the best at what I do, which means giving my best. I know I have to be the best version of myself in both areas, and I won’t stop until I am. My motto is: “Where my energy goes is what grows.”
You also have a deep passion for the arts, ranging from watercolour painting to stained-glass artistry. Can you share what initially drew you to the world of art, and how has it evolved over time?
I use art as a form of therapy in my everyday life. I also have a BA in Expressive & Therapeutic Arts. I’ve used art in my life as a way of teaching life lessons as well as obtaining a degree. It is a wonderful degree that centres on understanding people on a deeper level than simply talking. Using art as therapy can provide people with a release when they don’t have words. I love the fact that even if I do not use this degree in terms of a career, it has taught me life lessons that I feel are vital. It has taught me to be compassionate and how to understand people on a deeper level. Compassion is vital, and I believe the world is lacking in this area. If we took more time to understand someone’s needs rather than shutting them down, the world would be a better place. Art therapy has a way of bringing people together and opening new doors. Humans are constantly evolving, and we spend our lives learning.
Hannah, you’ve garnered attention for your unique approach to fashion and lifestyle content. What initially inspired you to start sharing your journey on social media platforms?
I like to engage in work that captures my essence and reflects who I am and what I stand for. Authenticity is a core belief of mine, and I strive to be true to myself in all aspects of life. Pursuing work that honours my identity and values brings me happiness.
Though social media can sometimes be overwhelming, how do you prioritize self-care and mental well-being while maintaining an active presence online?
Prioritizing authenticity means understanding who I am and what I stand for. Kindness, love, and empathy guide my interactions with others. Additionally, I embrace my creativity—a vital aspect of expressing my true self across all areas of life.
What’s your go-to pre-shoot ritual? Any lucky charms or quirky habits?
Before a shoot, I visualize how I want it to unfold and set clear intentions for what I hope to achieve. Manifestation plays a significant role in my life—I believe in actively creating the outcomes I desire. From selecting clothing and makeup to striking poses, I aim to embody my authentic self and proudly showcase that vision.
Jewellery: Susanne Siegel @susannesiegeljewelry
Dress: Alice and Olivia @aliceandolivia
Shoes: Christian Louboutin @louboutinworld
What advice would you give to your younger self when you were just starting your journey in the fashion world?
If I could reach out to my younger self, I would take my own hand and say, “First and foremost, everything will be okay.” Starting in the fashion world won’t be easy—it’ll be really, really hard. But each challenge will bring you closer to an authentic version of yourself, shaping who you’re meant to be. Embrace every obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Never give up, and always love yourself more than anyone else, any place, or any job. Self-love is the key to everything. Understand that a “no” is merely the closing of one door and the opening of another. Sometimes that rejection will lead you down your true path. Lastly, be prepared for rejection—it’s a normal part of life. Trouble arises when we let rejection define us. Remember, you are so much more than someone’s “no.”
Could you shed some light on the projects you’re currently working on?
First off, I’m thrilled to be the cover girl for L’Officiel Magazine—a dream come true! Additionally, I’m honoured to be a special guest at the BLOSSOM Couture Fashion Show in Chicago on April 25th, benefiting the Wing’s Program. Domestic violence is an issue close to my heart, and WINGS provides critical services to survivors. I’m also excited about upcoming shoots for special projects—I can’t wait to be a part of them!
