BELLA insider’s Summer Issue Cover Story: The Queen of Summer, Teresa Giudice
Creative Direction by Vanessa Coppes
Interview by M. Roman
Editorial Assistance by Jennifer MacLellan
Photography by Michelle Behre Videography by Miguel Pichardo
Hair + Makeup by Lucia Casazza
Styling by Mindy Gura + Paula Orlan, The Style Duo
Photoshoot Assistance by Dr. James Mercer, Sara Paige
Location: The Whitechapel Project in Long Branch, NJ
Florals: Peter James Florals
Dress: Marc Bouwer, Earrings: Alexis Bittar Jaguar, Ring: Erin Fader Jewelry, Shoes: Betsy Johnson
The “O.G.” of reality television, Teresa Giudice is the queen of summer at the Jersey Shore.
The most authentic Housewife from hit reality TV franchise, The Real Housewives of New Jersey, a best-selling author featured in The New York Times, an entrepreneur, a mother of four, and a host of TV entertainment, Teresa Giudice is a true “Jersey Girl.” She combines her affection for family and friends with style and the latest fashion. From the reality TV spotlight to brand endorsements, best-selling books, and an advocacy for health, fitness, charity, and of course, her family, Teresa is aptly dubbed the “O.G.” Gracing the cover of our Summer Issue, Teresa shares her favorite seasonal styles, family and relationship insights, and her love of the Jersey Shore…
Dress: One33 Social, Neiman Marcus Paramus, Bracelet: Joanna Laura Constantine, Shoes: Karen Millen
It was incredible spending the day with you, and I wonder, what was your favorite look from the shoot?
I really love the long pink gown. I thought it was so feminine and sexy. And I loved the green dress. The way it glistened in the sun was so beautiful.
Describe from your point of view, the perfect summer in Jersey?
Renting a shore house in Lavalette or Ortley and enjoying the beach during the day and grilling or going out to dinner at night, while spending time with my loved ones.
As mentioned during the shoot, you love summer fashion and beauty. Tell our readers your go-to “Jersey Girl” summer look.
My favorite look would be a bikini at the beach and a cute two-piece set or a cute summer dress – fitted or flowy. For beauty products, I love the IT Cosmetics tinted moisturizer with SPF.
Jumpsuit: Mrs Momma Bear Workwear, Earrings: Alexis Bittar, Shoes: Dolce & Gabbana
Switching gears a bit, you truly light up with love when mentioning Louie, and this summer marks two years of marriage. How is this whole new chapter with him?
Exciting, fresh, fun, and full of adventure.
Now having a combined family, Louie with his two boys and you and your girls, how do they feel having step-siblings? Is it a girl vs. boy household?
It’s a huge, blended family! Everyone plays their part and it’s just easy and works. I’m very grateful. And my daughters and Louie’s sons really love having each other in their lives. We truly are the Brady Bunch. And let’s not forget our four dogs!
““This is my job, and I love that it’s been a part of my life for so long.””
Dress: Marc Bouwer, Bracelet: Joanna Laura Constantine, Shoes: Daniela Uribe
We’ve seen your girls blossom in front of our eyes into beautiful young adults. Do you consider yourself a stern parent or do you take more of a best friend approach?
I take more of a best friend approach for sure. When I must, of course I can be strict, but I want them to be able to talk to me about anything.
Behind what people see play out on TV, let’s not forget to mention the successful businesswoman you are! With multiple New York Times best-sellers, appearances throughout different shows, and various products, what venture brings you the most joy?
My cookbooks because it feels like I have a piece of my mom with me.
And “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” because it feels like I have home movies of my kids growing up and my parents, since they are no longer with us. Also, I love having my podcast, Turning the Tables with Teresa Giudice, because viewers really get to me know me on a more personal level.
Has there been an area of business you’d like to tap into, that you haven’t already?
I am very interested in the idea of partnering within the fashion and beauty industries. I have a degree in fashion marketing, and it’s always been a huge passion of mine.
If the cameras were to stop, and you could fully live away from millions of viewers’ screens, without people’s judgment or comments, would you be happy?
This is my job, and I love that it’s been a part of my life for so long. No one wants to be judged, but I respect that everyone has their own opinion.
Teresa, thank you so much for your time. I would like to let our readers know that it was such a pleasure working with you the day of your shoot. If you could finish with one thing, you’d like people to know about you, what would it be?
I just want people to know that I’m fun-loving, full of life and laughter, and I truly just go with the flow!
