Irina Shayk, 40, poses topless in leather pants in candid backstage moment

Irina Shayk knows how to deliver a striking fashion photograph, but her behind-the-scenes pictures are every bit as memorable.

The 40-year-old supermodel shared a glimpse of the preparations that go into her looks, including one particularly eye-catching image of herself lying on the floor in fitted black leather trousers.

Crossing her arms over her bare chest, Irina looked towards the camera while someone kneeling beside her adjusted the waistband. Rows of heels surrounded the pair, with black boots, strappy sandals and colourful pumps lined up beside a wooden cabinet.

It was a candid glimpse of a fashion fitting, complete with the kind of footwear collection that would make any shoe lover stop scrolling.

Irina Shayk's daring leather look

The glossy trousers fitted closely around Irina's hips and thighs before widening towards the hem. Her dark hair was swept away from her face as she reclined on the carpet, leaving the leather to take centre stage.

Another photograph showed a different side of her preparations. Holding a takeaway cup, Irina posed while members of her beauty team worked on her hair and face.

She wore black lingerie edged with bright pink lace, with winged eyeliner and a warm-toned lip completing the look. A small pink clip kept a section of her hair in place as the finishing touches continued.

There was also a more relaxed mirror selfie: Irina wore a white cropped top and low-slung pale trousers, with her brunette hair falling in loose, tousled waves.

Together, the photographs offered a glimpse of the fittings, styling and quieter moments that happen away from the runway.

What Irina Shayk has said about food and fitness

Despite working in an industry closely associated with strict routines, Irina has previously described a more flexible relationship with food.

"I drink a lot of water, but I don't do diets," she told British Vogue in 2012.

She explained that she enjoyed desserts and balanced her love of food with exercise. At the time, she said she visited the gym three or four times a week when she wasn't travelling, while also acknowledging the part genetics played in her appearance. 

Irina Shayk's simple approach to beauty

When it comes to makeup, Irina has demonstrated that even a supermodel appreciates products that do more than one job.

In her 2020 Beauty Secrets video for Vogue, she used lipstick on both her lips and cheeks, applied eyeshadow with her fingertips and showed how she took a softer daytime look into evening with a red lip.

"I keep minimal products in my purse," she explained.

Her approach left room for glamour without hiding the face underneath, a philosophy she summed up neatly: "Makeup should not be wearing you."