Fabiana Cristina was originally from Lisbon, Portugal, and growing up, she definitely went through many phases of wanting to be a fashion designer, and at one point she even convinced herself that she needed to become a Victoria’s Secret supermodel. Although that hasn’t happened yet, she feels like she gets to do it every day through her social media platforms.
Fabiana began posting fashion content on Instagram during the first UK lockdown in 2020 and in the beginning, she just used clothes from her mother’s closet, which helped her find more of her own style. Never did she think she would be doing some of the things that she gets to do now because of it.
Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Fabiana to discuss her journey in the fashion world and here’s what went down:
Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?
I usually shop at Na-kd fashion, Mango, and Zara – they are definitely my go-to trio for all my basic pieces. For designer clothing, I’ve recently found Otrium – a platform that sells the excess stock of designer and high-street clothing brands for a much more reduced price (for anyone wanting to shop designer and high street on a budget).
What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?
I may be a bit biased but I would say to stick to all the neutrals. It is honestly so much easier to come up with outfits in the cooler months and easier to layer when you do. I would always recommend having a wool coat for days where you are not completely loving your outfit and want to add something to make it look more put together.
Where do you look for creative inspiration?
Pinterest tends to be my go-to last resort option for inspiration when I have absolutely no idea what to do with an item. However, I tend to do this as a last resort because I like giving myself enough time to visualise outfits and come up with outfits that I haven’t seen yet.
Is it hard to stay fashionable?
It was much harder to stay fashionable when I didn’t have a clear idea of what I liked and didn’t like. Since decluttering my closet and only having things in there that I love has made it a million times easier to stay fashionable and get ready in the mornings.
How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?
I always just aim to be myself and have my own style but I would say because I follow so many other fashion bloggers I also know what is “in”. Because of this, I’m able to have my own unique style whilst mixing in some aspects of what is “in” to make sure that it is still commercially appealing.
Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?
Suits and bright colours. Although both have even around for a very long time, they really are coming out now and I’ve even found myself styling my suit pants with almost every single one of my outfits and everyone has been asking about them. One of my favourite things to do is to style a full suit with white trainers for the ultimate casual-chic look.
What do you think about the state of fashion today?
I love that fashion has become something that allows people to express themselves. However, all the waste and environmental impact caused by fashion cannot be ignored and in that sense, there is still a long way to go. I definitely see the fashion industry moving more towards the rental services and second-hand goods side of things, and some well-known brands have even started selling pre-loved goods on their own websites (which is definitely a step in the right direction).
What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?
I would personally say that skinny jeans have definitely had their moment but ever since comfort became the number 1 priority for most people they are definitely very ‘last season’. Wide-leg trousers, suit pants and mom jeans have definitely become the new go-to for most people.
What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?
My number 1 piece of advice would be to be yourself. I know it’s very cliche but I have found that nobody really wants to see a complete copy of someone else but instead wants to see what you have to offer. Especially for brands, they want to see your personal style and your personality instead of somebody else’s.
The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years, what’s the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?
The best way to stay ahead of the curve is to follow others in the fashion niche and have a little look on sites such a Pinterest. This way you can stay updated on every change in the fashion industry and make sure you’re able to pivot. I would say, as long as you stick to the classics, regardless of how much the industry changes you will always be able to restyle those classic pieces.
