Padma Lakshmi Goes Nearly Nude for Glamorous Pirelli Calendar Shoot: 'Major Bucket List Item'

The 2025 Pirelli calendar is shaping up to be a gorgeous one.

Then again, when is it not?

On Aug. 14, the brand behind the famous calendar posted a selection of behind-the-scenes photos to Instagram, announcing the stars and photographer of the annual.

That took us over to Padma Lakshmi's Instagram, where the author and TV host shared her own collection of videos from her time in Miami shooting her photos for next year's project.

"A while ago you may remember I went to Miami for a secret project. Well I can finally reveal that it was to SHOOT THE PIRELLI CALENDAR!!" she gushed. "I was so happy to be reunited with the amazing @ethanjamesgreen who I love working with. The @pirelli calendar is iconic and when I was modeling in Italy in the 90s I’d always wondered what it would be like to be photographed for it."

Lakshmi, 53, who posed in nude underwear under a sheer dress, as well as in a white look in the ocean, continued in her caption by calling the shoot a "major bucket list item" for her younger self. She praised the whole creative team for making her feel "safe" and "cared for" while on each of the sets and raved about working with Pirelli.

"I’m glad I waited until now to do it because I appreciate it so much more. Ladies don’t let anyone ever tell you it’s too late. Your best life and work could just be ahead of you. It’s how I’ve been feeling lately and I hope the same for you," she finished.

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

More of this year's stars include Jodie Turner-Smith, John Boyega, Hunter Schafer and Simone Ashley.

The Bridgerton star, 29, shared a behind-the-scenes look at her own shoot on Instagram on Aug. 14, writing, "A sneak peek into my shoot for the 2025 @pirelli calendar 💛🖤 Shot by @ethanjamesgreen. It was an honour to work with you again Ethan! I’m so proud to be part of this project with you."

She also thanked stylist Tonne Good and the team, as well as Pirelli.

"Big thank you to @pirelli for having me on an a classic. I loved every second of this Miami moment 🖤💛"

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up to date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The 2025 Pirelli calendar — affectionately known as The Cal — was shot by Ethan James Green in May and June in Miami. It follows a long line of gorgeous calendars that the Italian tire company releases each year that have become collectors items. Last year's, shot by Prince Gyasi, featured the likes of Naomi Campbell, Idris Elba and more.