Donatella Versace, Ricardo Tisci, Ciara and Mario Testino
Donatella Versace, Ricardo Tisci, Ciara and Mario Testino

RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct 25, 2009 / FW/ — It’s the perfect city to launch the book, “ MaRIO DE JANEIRO Testino ”; after all, it was named after it.

Mario Testino, one of the world’s most successful fashion and portrait photographers, whose images are noted for their freshness and intimacy have come “home” to the city which had fascinated him since childhood.

“When I was 14, on holiday, and going from my house to the beach and seeing everyone walk everywhere in their tiny bathing suits the girls and boys were so sexy and carefree and wild I just could not believe it. This easy sensuality, sexual freedom and lust for life left a deep impression”; Testino has been going back ever since, for work and fun, passion and inspiration.

And last Friday, October 23rd, it was all fun as fashion’s who’s who feted the famed photographer and author at the Copacabana Palace. Part of Oi Fashion Rocks, the book launch, together with Oi Fashion Rocks’ opening dinner and charity auction was the scene to be seen in exciting Rio de Janeiro.

Featuring candid shots of exquisite cariocas baring nubile flesh, including supermodel Gisele Bundchen, MaRIO DE JANEIRO Testino captures the essence of this incomparably seductive city and its sultry citizens.

From its breathtaking sunset panoramas, to the throbbing chaos of its world-famous carnival, this is Testino’s love poem to the Brazilian metropolis that captured his teenage heart, and never let go.

The book includes foreword by songwriter and singer Caetano Veloso, introduction by actress/TV personality Regina Case and an essay by supermodel Gisele Bundchen

Available in softcover with plastic jacket for beach reading available in yellow, orange or red, inspired by Rio s glorious sunsets!

MaRIO DE JANEIRO Testino
Inspired by the girls from Copacabana