There’s an idea of beauty that doesn’t need excess, filters, or radical transformations. A beauty born from balance, simplicity, and that everyday gesture in front of the mirror that, more than changing you, is about recognizing yourself. This is where the story of Federica Nargi begins, who today translates her aesthetic vision into a deeply personal beauty project: SOBEA.

A brand born not only from years spent in the spotlight and in close contact with the world of makeup, but above all from a concrete need: to create intuitive, versatile products designed to accompany women’s real lives. Within Sobea, motherhood, authenticity, discipline, and that refined naturalness that has always distinguished Federica coexist.

In this interview, she shares with us her desire to build something of her own, her relationship with her image, and the challenge of shaping a brand that reflects, above all, her most genuine self.

What is your earliest memory connected to beauty?

My first memory with beauty is linked to my sister Claudia. She is six years older than me and I used to watch her while she was doing her makeup, always using the latest trend products. I was fascinated, but she was very jealous of her makeup! This aspect sparked a strong curiosity in me that over time turned into passion and then dedication to this sector.

When did you realize you truly wanted to create a beauty brand?

It was a realization that came over time. For years I worked with my image and with the world of beauty. At a certain point, I felt the need to go further, to create something of my own that truly represented my way of seeing and experiencing make-up.

SOBEA comes from your daughters’ names: how emotionally important was it to turn something so personal into an entrepreneurial project?

It was something very natural but also very deep. My daughters are my daily energy, my recharge in the most difficult moments. Giving their name to the brand was spontaneous, because Sobea also represents what they transmit to me: authenticity, sweetness, strength.

“My daughters are my daily energy, my recharge in the most difficult moments.”

Before launching the brand, what was the make-up product you couldn’t find on the market and made you think “I have to create it myself”?

Rather than a single product, I felt something truly intuitive was missing. Today there are so many products, but they often feel complicated. I needed something that could accompany me everywhere, especially considering my pace: work, travel, family, a thousand commitments. From there came the idea of creating simple but functional products, like the Unica palette, designed to be practical, fast, and suitable for every moment of the day.

Your make-up has always been very natural. Is this the aesthetic you want to bring into the brand or do you think it will evolve over time?

Naturalness is the starting point and will always remain a central element. I am fascinated by the idea of make-up that enhances without transforming, capable of highlighting the identity of the person wearing it. Evolution is inevitable, but I believe it is essential to always stay faithful to a certain aesthetic balance.

How involved are you in product development: formulas, colors, textures?

I am involved in every phase. I follow everything very closely, from design to testing to final choices. I need to personally try every product until it convinces me 100%. It’s a long process, but very satisfying.

“I need to personally try every product until it convinces me 100%.”

Was there a product that took longer than expected to develop? Why?

Yes, definitely the Unica palette, because it was the first product we launched and I wanted it to truly represent Sobea’s identity. We worked a lot to find the right balance between shades, textures, and ease of use.

Also the foundation took a lot of time. For me it was essential to achieve a lightweight, natural texture that blended well with the skin without feeling heavy. I wanted a believable result that enhanced without covering, and this required many tests and a lot of attention.

If you had to describe SOBEA’s identity in three words, what would they be?

Authenticity, simplicity, balance.

How important is it for you that the brand also reflects your personality, beyond your public image?

It is essential. My public image is only a part, while Sobea comes from my truest side, the one that is often not visible.

Where do you draw inspiration for shades and collections: fashion, skincare, daily life?

I mainly draw inspiration from daily life: from the women around me, from our clients, and from the community. I tend to choose versatile shades, easy to use, that simplify make-up without giving up enhancement.

“I mainly draw inspiration from daily life”

What does “doing your makeup well” mean to you today?

It means feeling comfortable. Looking in the mirror and recognizing yourself, maybe with something extra, but without changing who you are. Above all, it means highlighting your uniqueness and truest beauty.

What make-up advice would you give to your past self ten years ago?

To simplify. Use fewer products, but chosen more carefully and of higher quality. And above all, to trust herself more.

What has been the most courageous decision you have made so far?

Putting myself completely on the line with a personal project, taking on a huge amount of responsibility.

If you look at SOBEA five years from now, where would you like to see it?

I would like to see it grow, but without losing its identity. With new products, but always consistent with the original vision.

“SIMPLIFY”

Is there a “dream product” you would like to create someday?

Rather than a single “dream product”, I would like to continue developing products that respond to real needs, in an increasingly intuitive and essential way. The idea is to create something that simplifies the routine and accompanies people in everyday life, always maintaining the concept of enhancing authentic beauty, which is at the core of the entire Sobea project.

Which SOBEA product represents you the most and why?

The Unica palette, because it perfectly embodies the brand philosophy: practicality, versatility, and simplicity. It is a product born from a real need and, at the same time, it also reflects a lot of who I am.

Have you discovered anything radically new about yourself through your work?

I discovered that I am much more determined than I thought. When you truly believe in something, a strength emerges that you didn’t think you had, and it guides you even in the most complex moments.

Do you have a routine or activity you dedicate yourself to when you need to “switch off”?

Being with my family and friends is definitely the quickest way to disconnect. They are simple moments, but essential to recharge.

And then there is dance, which has always been an incredible outlet for me. It helps me clear my mind, regain energy, and reconnect with myself.

What has been your biggest act of rebellion so far?

I am quite rebellious by nature, I have always tended to go against the grain. Even with Sobea, I chose a different path, more essential, less tied to trends.

What is your biggest fear?

My biggest fear is losing enthusiasm for what I do. For me it is essential to keep feeling the passion that pushed me to start.

What makes you feel safe and what makes you feel confident?

What makes me feel safe is having the right people beside me, those who truly know me and always support me.
What makes me feel confident is seeing that what I build day after day takes shape and is recognized for its value.

What would you like to see outside your window, right now and always?

Serenity. It is what I seek the most, both in life and at work.

Who is your style icon?

I don’t have a single style icon. I am inspired by women who have a personal and conscious aesthetic, who do not follow trends but choose what truly represents them.

What does it mean to you to feel comfortable in your own skin?

It means learning to accept yourself, without wanting to be someone else. It is certainly a long journey, but one that leads to greater self-awareness.

What is your happy place?

My family and my friends. They are my refuge, the place where I can be completely myself and find energy again.

Photos by Johnny Carrano. 

Hair by Camilla Oldani. 

Makeup by Ester Paolantonio.

Styling by Ilaria Di Gasparro. 

Thanks to Carryover PR & Communication.

Thanks to Stars on Field.