Sophia Loren’s ‘transformation’ that inspired her striking grandson – exclusive

Growing up as the granddaughter of screen siren Sophia Loren, Lucia Ponti was never far from glamour.

The 18-year-old – who will make her debut in Paris at the Debutant Ball on November 30 – shared insight into her unique childhood and what it was really like growing up with her famous grandmother.

Talking with HELLO!Lucia remembered dressing up in movie star clothes and how she would long for her grandmother to visit them in America from Geneva.

“Occasionally my grandmother would come and visit my family in LA and I would give her my room to stay in during her visit,” she said.

“As a little girl, I would walk into my room covered in hairpieces, jewelry and coats, and at the time I was so fascinated by the transformation my room would go through every time she visited.”

Sophia allowed Lucia to create “my own personal fashion shows,” with her designer wardrobe.

“I would try on the hair pieces or jewelry and joke around the house not understanding why my grandmother wore such clothes or pieces.”

Lucia – who is the daughter of Sophia’s son Edoardo Ponti and his wife Sasha – is excited for the weekend.

© Ron Galella

Sophia has helped shape her choice of dress as she said: “My grandmother always believed in timeless elegance and the importance of wearing something that reflects your true self.”

When asked if she will be wearing some of Sophia’s jewels at the prom, she said, “My grandmother gave me the most treasured advice, not jewelry, which is to be yourself,” noted Lucia. “I will make sure to take this with me when I embark on this journey.

“I think I inherited her courage. She always taught me to never give up and to keep striving for what you long for, regardless of the rejection or the price.”

Lucia says her relationship with Sophia is “very close” and despite the distance they share a special bond.

© Sasha Alexander

Sophia spoke about her family connection in an interview with the Financial Times in 2020.

“I have two beautiful children and they gave me grandchildren, so I am surrounded by great love every day,” she told the broadcast.

“I live for my family,” Sophia insisted during a chat with Al Roker on Today. “I have the most beautiful grandchildren I have ever seen in my life.”