Nigellissima: a study of glamour, performativity and embodiment

This is a study of glamour, its complexities and its relationship with and role within celebrity culture. We explore glamour in the context of Nigella, the London-born TV cook, food writerand self-proclaimed ‘domestic goddess' of British culinary culture. In our study we considerthe interconnections between glamour, specifically Italian-style retro-glamour and performativity in Nigella's career. We also address the role of embodiment and authenticityin the masquerade of femininity. Our analysis focuses on Nigella's glamour over time,considering its creation, enactment, and re-affirmation following scandal. We conclude by speculating on glamour's complex and ambivalent relationship with celebrity culture, and therole of vulnerability in creating authentic and enduring glamour in contemporary consumer society.