Category: FEATURED MODELS

5 Surefire Modelling Tips for Aspiring Fashion Models

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Becoming a fashion model is a dream for many passionate people about fashion, style, and beauty. However, it takes more than just good looks to make it in the fashion industry. To become a successful fashion model, you need to have a combination of talent, hard work, determination, and a few insider tips. Below are some steps to follow if you want to become a successful fashion model.

Determine Your Fit

The first step to becoming a successful model is to determine whether you have the right body type, height, and facial features that meet the industry standards. Female fashion models are usually between 5’9 and 6’0 tall, with slim, toned bodies and proportionate facial features. Male fashion models are typically between 5’11 and 6’2 tall, with a lean, muscular bodies and chiseled facial features. If you don’t meet these requirements, don’t worry; other types of modeling might fit you better, such as commercial or plus-size modeling.

Build Your Portfolio

To showcase your talent and potential as a fashion model, you must create a professional modeling portfolio highlighting your best shots. Your portfolio should include various photos, such as headshots, full-body shots, and editorial shots that showcase your versatility and range. You can work with a professional photographer or a modeling agency to create your portfolio or start by taking some high-quality photos yourself.

Get Discovered

One of the typical ways to get discovered as a fashion model is to attend an open casting call or submit your photos to a modeling agency. Look for reputable agencies in your area and submit your portfolio, measurements, and a brief introduction about yourself. You can also attend modeling events, fashion shows, or industry parties where you might meet industry insiders who can help you get noticed.

Network and Build Relationships

Networking is essential in the fashion industry, and building relationships with agents, photographers, designers, and other models can help you land more modeling gigs and advance your career. Attend industry events, fashion shows, and other modeling opportunities to meet people and build your network. Stay in touch with the people you meet; always be professional and courteous.

Keep Yourself Fit and Healthy

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for fashion models, as they must always look their best. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep to keep your body and mind in top condition. Avoid unhealthy habits like smoking or excessive drinking, as they can damage your health and ruin your chances of success as a model.

Becoming a fashion model is a challenging and rewarding journey that requires hard work, perseverance, and a little luck. Follow these steps and stay focused on your goals, and you might just become the next top fashion model.

Editorial credit: magicinfoto / Shutterstock.com

Meet The Rising Star Behind The Cover Of The January 2023 Issue Of Model & Mode Magazine: Ellie Bojarski

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Ellie was born on 10.1.2011 to proud parents Lisa and Frank Bojarski, Jr. She has an older brother Kody Bojarski who was one and a half years old at that time.

Ellie lost her mother when she was just five weeks old, who suffered from post-natal depression and committed suicide after she was born—followed by the loss of her father, who tragically died in an accident. Both kids have lived with their grandparents since then and were raised by them. Luckily, both kids had a large family circle consisting of aunties, uncles, and many cousins – they were surrounded by a close and loving family.

Ellie grew up attending all the meetings, events, and community work that grandma does because she’s actively involved with passion and dedication. She loves dancing to Jazz, tap, ballet, and hip-hop. She has been dancing since she was two and a half years old at the Decadance Academy. When she was three years old, she performed tap and Jazz dance at the Relay for Life for the Cancer Council of NSW, Fairfield City – it was her first community participation. She was also one of the angels of the yearly Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo event till she was seven years old at the FilOz Liverpool and Districts Inc. – a non for profit organisation. Cancer Council of NSW Relay for Life is a yearly involvement of Ellie through dancing and helping her grandmother behind the scenes, as she has been a committee member for the last 20 years. She helps at the Hope Ceremony, which is the day’s highlight.

Ellie has helped her grandmother at the FilOz group and affiliates by sending food and goods to the Philippines during floods and calamities. She loved packing up boxes with toys for the kids. She was one of the founding participants at the Children’s Festival of Sydney in 2016, proudly representing the Philippines wearing Filipiniana attire. Children’s Festival of Sydney is a huge yearly event held at The Rocks, Revesby, and Campbelltown. Ellie enjoys swimming, push biking, dancing, ice skating, and watching movies. She’s shy but loves playing with her cousins anytime. Some of Ellie’s awards throughout the years include Mini Miss Australia 2017 in Melbourne, Victoria Global United International Beauty Pageant, and USA Miss Little Global United International 2018 Lifetime Ambassador.

Meet The Rising Star Behind The Cover Of The November 2022 Issue Of Model & Mode Magazine: Helena Ristevski

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Helena Ristevski is a stunning 16-year-old beauty queen who was recently crowned Miss Teen World Universal 2022.

Helena got into the pageantry world because her mother and her friends are beauty queens themselves, so they naturally encouraged her to enter a pageant. Eventually, she got discovered by Robbie Canner, a highly respected pageant queen in Australia and the National Director of Miss World Universal, and thus far, she has guided Helena into the ins and outs of the pageant world.

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Helena to discuss her journey in the industry so far, and here’s what went down:

What do you like most about being a beauty queen?

What I love most about being a beauty queen is getting dressed in beautiful gowns and getting my hair and makeup done. I love that joining a pageant has given me so much confidence on stage; I have become a very confident public speaker. I also love meeting new people; I’ve become lifelong friends and Sash sisters with some of the queens I’ve met.

Downside to being a beauty queen?

The downside of being a beauty queen is my age being 16 years old. Some of my peers don’t understand pageantry, which could result in bullying. Still, I take control of the situation and spin it in a positive light by helping my community and supporting charity events.

What has been the most memorable experience of being in the pageant industry so far?

There have been many memorable experiences in the pageant industry so far. I have been invited to many charity balls and events, and I have also been featured in several newspapers and magazines. But my highlight was being interviewed on the radio station by Fitzy and Wippa.

Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

It would have to be Fitzy and Wippa, the radio hosts, former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, and former Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while in the pageant industry. This can be about the industry or about yourself.

The most valuable lesson I have learned while in the pageant industry is confidence, the way you carry yourself walking, public speaking, etc.

But the most important thing is being your true self and being proud of who you are.

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

I stay grounded by keeping busy at school and in my extracurricular activities. I also have my family, especially my little brother, who keeps me grounded.

Is your family supportive of you being in the pageant industry?

My family is my biggest supporter and fan club. They have travelled around the country with me to compete in pageants.

What are your future plans? Inside pageantry or out of it.

My future plan is to complete my education. I want to study Law and political science and go into politics. I’m also doing a lot of modelling, stemming from the pageants I’ve joined. My ultimate goal from all this is to represent Australia in the Miss Universe pageant one day.

Meet The Woman Behind The Cover Of The October 2022 Issue Of Model & Mode Magazine: Diana Omuoyo

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Diana Omuoyo is the reigning Ms. World Universal 2022. She’s a multicultural and multi-lingual IT professional passionate about promoting inclusion, equality, STEM, and quality education.

Diana’s involvement and commitment to the community have always been a key part of her life because it gives her purpose and a sense of belonging. She stays active by supporting socio-economic causes globally, being an ambassador to change, and continuing to raise awareness on critical issues.

Because of her deep passion and aspirations in the community, a friend suggested that she enter a pageant as a way to expand her dimensions in philanthropy. She had never imagined joining a pageant before, so she was initially surprised by the recommendation because of her lack of industry knowledge. She then researched pageantry, got a better understanding, and gained insights into how most platforms are founded on service to the community and philanthropy.

So, when the opportunity to join Ms. World Universal came up, It was an easy decision for her primarily because the platform’s mission and vision aligned with her goals, passions, and values. The rest, you can say, is history.

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Diana to discuss her journey in the pageant industry, and here’s what went down:

What do you like most about being a beauty queen?

Winning a title is a humbling experience; most people don’t realize that it is synonymous with leadership and service to others. As a modern woman of colour, I am navigating the world amidst the challenges of social & cultural norms that continue to divide the community. As Ms. World Universal and a beauty queen, I am privileged to have a platform I can leverage to promote causes, spread awareness, and impart change.

Pageantry has also afforded me great opportunities to participate in the community, charity, and social events where I have met like-minded individuals. Throughout this journey, I continue to grow and learn a lot about myself as I interact and share with people from all walks of life.

Downside to being a beauty queen?

One of my personal challenges is juggling a demanding full-time job, personal/community commitments, hobbies, family/friends, and the title holder’s duties. However, because this role is very important to me, I always make time to be present and committed, which simply means multi-tasking and better time management.

One of the downsides I experience regularly is that, while pageants continue to gain popularity, there is still some lingering stigma about beauty queens and pageantry. So, I constantly debunk myths and educate others about my title and platform. I stay grounded in the knowledge that even if I may fail to change the perception of some, it is still important for me to continue to stand in my truth for my purpose and the vision for my title as a beauty queen.

What has been the most memorable experience of being in the pageant industry so far?

I have had many monumental experiences and milestones on the journey to Ms. World Universal. The most memorable one so far was at a charity event where I met and chatted with mothers from a minority community who expressed the hope that their daughters – by seeing someone that looks like them on a platform like this – would be inspired to believe that they too can dare to dream big and chase their dreams. This highlighted the importance of representation and just how impactful it is for our underrepresented communities. At that very moment, I knew that my decision to join the pageant world was right.

Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

I have interacted with so many people over the last couple of years across various domains – NGOs, Fashion, Media, Pageantry, Founders, Sports, Leaders, and Community Advocates, among others. Everyone brings a unique view of the world and diverse perspectives. The one thing that has been a common denominator in many of these interactions has been the shared passion for giving back – that was unsurprising yet an interesting discovery.

The experience so far has been quite insightful, and I look forward to continuing to learn from others.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while in the pageant industry? This can be about the industry or about yourself.

I started my pageant career comparatively late, so gaining a deeper understanding of the meaning and power of the crown was one of the major learnings on my journey. I always thought that in order to enter or even win a title, I would have to change to become ‘pageant worthy’ [Whatever that means]. But, throughout the process, I realized I just needed to be my authentic self and showcase the strengths and leadership traits I already have that make me a great title holder.

While the quest for the title is, in fact, a competition, the title[s] do come with a lot of responsibility. So, on a personal level, it has forced me to map out my primary focus and the goals I want to achieve with this title. I now represent Ms. World Universal, myself, and the organizations I support, and I want to be remembered as a selfless person, fearless in the pursuit of her dreams, a great friend, someone that was a positive role model that used her voice to influence positive change that made an impact in other people’s lives.

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

It’s definitely a tough industry to be in, and it is sometimes hard to deal with harsh criticisms without taking things personally. It takes a lot of support, self-compassion, positive affirmation, and inner strength to rise above the negativity and judgment that is honestly usually just surface level.

To stay grounded, I remind myself why I joined pageantry and the goals I strive to achieve. This keeps me focused and motivated to navigate the daunting aspects of the industry. Focusing my energy on the positives, the learnings, and the road ahead has been a constant ‘saving grace.’ It has also become extremely important for me to maintain overall mental wellbeing and good physical health instead of trying to fit into a superficial mold. I wake up every day and choose to love the space I occupy and the body I am in, and this journey of self-love is one I am hoping others will learn to embrace as well.

Is your family supportive of you being in the pageant industry?

My decision to join the pageant world surprised a lot of people, but I am lucky to have had a lot of support from friends and family along the way.

What are your future plans? Inside pageantry or out of it.

On a personal note, I plan to spend more time mentoring and advocating for & mentoring women of color, underrepresented communities, and young adults to pursue Technology and Engineering careers. My ultimate goal and ambition are to have a seat on a board of a charity organization / foundation where I can leverage my experiences and passions for philanthropy to continue to support Education, Equality, Inclusion and STEM initiatives on a local and global scale.

I stand firm in the belief that Education plays a key role in socio-economic wellbeing within our communities and that technology is one way to create a pathway for everyone to access quality learning. Another aspect of this is understanding that Education is not just limited to textbook/school learning but also includes knowledge sharing around cultural & societal issues. It is important to continue to create awareness around the dangers of exclusion, discrimination, the single story, and bias.

For my year in reign, I also look forward to continuing to work with the Ms World Universal Director and pageant network to support their plan for the year and fulfill all other duties as defined by the pageant organization, leveraging my network and social media platforms to promote my cause[s] and expand my reach.

Woman Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Fabulous Cristina Petroiu

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Cristina Petroiu is a fashionista who loves life and beauty in all its forms. She loves fashion, photography, travelling, and spending time with her family. She’s a mother, a wife, as well as an entrepreneur, and she manages to juggle them all successfully. She’s a lion – in fact, the expression “I can’t” doesn’t exist in her vocabulary!

As for her online activity, it all started in 2020 when, due to the pandemic and the fact that everyone had to isolate themselves and stay home, she became much more active than usual on social media.

She has always been passionate about fashion and photography, which immensely helped her in her relatively rapid rise on social media. Now in 2022, she simultaneously takes care of her business and social media presence even though her professional activity field is the opposite of what can be seen on her Instagram profile. Specifically, since 2018 she has been managing her transport company (domestic and international transport of goods).

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Petroiu to discuss her journey in the entertainment industry, 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 do not have a specific store; I always buy what I like either online or from physical stores, including second-hand. I do not necessarily take into account trends; I instead focus on the quality of materials and generally buy pieces in neutral colors that can be used in as many combinations of outfits as possible.

I personally adore Romanian designers; they use quality materials, and the design of the clothes is slightly atypical sometimes, which I love. I like to dress differently.

Mytheresa and Farfetch are my favorites when it comes to buying sports shoes and more.

What are your tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

First of all, the pieces from natural materials such as wool, flannel, and fleece should not be missing from any fashionista’s wardrobe and not only!

I think the trench coat, coats, oversized sweaters, down jackets, and leather pants will be a must many years from now, for the cold months.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

Everywhere, in nature, in people, absolutely anything inspires me.

Social media and certain influencers also contribute when it comes to inspiration.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

Depending on our perspective, you can be “fashionable” when your style is well defined and you know how to wear each piece.

I never considered that I was necessarily fashionable, but I always had an attitude, whether I wore a trendy outfit or wore clothes that many considered “out of fashion.” FASHION is you, through what you manage to transmit. Personally, I don’t find it difficult as long as you know how to wear a coat and its quality prevails.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

Certainly, uniqueness is followed by commercial attraction; it depends on what kind of audience you address, what you manage to convey through what you wear, and more.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

Oversized jackets, coats, and overalls are trending again. Bags in bright neon or pink colors are also very “on the wave” this year.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

Like any other field, fashion has developed a lot over the years; it has become a general means of expression, making me very happy. The quality of the materials has improved, and sustainability has also taken on a rather large scale. I like it!

What clothes can we rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

First of all, those clothes no longer represent us in any form. It depends a lot on the purchases made, any clothes that are in mega trend this year will be “out of fashion” next year, that’s why I recommend the purchase of statement pieces, in neutral colors, white and black shirt, black dress, biker jacket, coats, and trench coats…, they will definitely stay in the wardrobe for many years. They can be easily accessorized each season differently.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

To create your own style, to be unique!

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?

ATTITUDE, whatever you wear, do it with attitude!

Woman Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Tiana Memon

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Tiana Memon is a 21-year-old marketing student and former model since she’s now focusing more of her time on fashion styling and content creation for many Slovenian fashion brands. She’s always loved writing about fashion, traveling, and life in general, so she decided to create a blog called Limemoncello, which features her surname and a known Italian drink Limoncello. Italy has always inspired her style, and she has always loved how Italians lived their life so carefree and positive.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Tiana to discuss her journey as a fashionista, 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 can honestly say that I’m proud of how much my look at fast fashion has changed. I’m always trying to either work with brands that don’t exploit employees and/or use low-quality materials. My wardrobe used to consist of 90% Zara, but now I use the Zara website for inspiration and try to find sustainable alternatives at Nu-in, Benetton or second-hand shops, which offer amazing vintage pieces.

When it comes to designer pieces, I use the website called Lyst, since It gives me a look through all the luxurious brands.

What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

Layer up! Layering is insanely fashionable, and people shouldn’t worry about wearing a blouse, a sweater, a blazer, a coat, or a puffer jacket over. If the colors match, it can honestly look amazing. It shows styling skills better than just putting on a dress.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

I make sure that I always check all the fashion runways; after all – fashion designers are the ones that create trends, and everyone copies them after. My favorite ones are Michael Kors, Jacquemus, and Dior.

Social media, of course, can be very inspiring, but I like Pinterest even more than Instagram.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

It definitely takes effort, and I’ve got days when I’m not in the mood to be dressed as my best self, but then again – I feel best when I wear something that’s the latest trend. After all, fashion has always been my passion, and it always will be.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

I think my ethnicity helps with the uniqueness since my biological father has Pakistan roots and my mother has Russian roots. I don’t know what to say for commercial appeal – maybe I get inspired by other influencers and try to post similar content. However – I always post and say and tag only the things I genuinely love and believe in; I’d like to stay completely true to myself even if that may not give me thousands more followers.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

Video posts are booming thanks to reels and Tiktok, it also shows a non-filtered version of you, and it’s kind of more personal, so videos are definitely the future, even when it comes to fashion.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I’m happy it’s moving into a more sustainable point of view and the “less is more” mentality, which helps stop the over-purchasing and polluting the planet.

What clothes can we rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

Good question! Ripped skinny jeans have been out of fashion for quite some time, but I’d also say oversized models are now replacing tight blouses. Basically, anything tight except dresses are being replaced with loose models, and it will stay that way for quite some time.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

Get inspired by other influencers/models/bloggers you love while still keeping your own identity. Don’t be afraid first to get feedback where they laugh at you, because from my own experience and from the experience of the people who made it, it’s always true that people laugh first, and then they copy. Also, make sure you post content you genuinely love and content that resonates with you; followers will notice if you’re doing something from your heart or not.

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?

Again, being yourself, studying the algorithms and insights, inspire, get inspired, support other influencers/models/bloggers and work on creating a community (liking, following, and commenting back is a part of that). Sometimes you have to fake it till you make it, but I believe everyone can do it if they’re consistent and do it from the heart.

Meet The Model Behind The Cover Of The May 2022 Issue Of Model & Mode Magazine: Arundhati Banerjee

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Arundhati Banerjee’s journey from a South Australian Women of the Year – Emerging Leader, performing artist, pageant winner, humanitarian services to winning the title of “Australian Supermodel of the Year – Commercial category” has been rewarding and fulfilling.

Arundhati, also fondly known as Ari, is a teenager pursuing a second-year Bachelor of Creative Industries (Theatre and Performing Arts) from Flinders University with a vision to work and contribute to the performing arts industry.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Arundhati to discuss her recent win at the Australian SuperModel of the Year competition, and here’s what went down:

How was your journey to winning ASOTY?

It was a gratifying experience to be part of the entire process and live the sisterhood ethos integral to ASOTY. The mentorship program that involved sessions on the fashion industry, wellness and mental health, networking, collaboration, the significance of personal branding with social currency, sustainable fashion, and sisterhood was an experience that I personally enjoyed. To me, winning was a part of the journey, and I feel truly humbled to receive the title of Australian Supermodel of the Year – Commercial category.

What has been your greatest triumph to date?

I believe life is about experiences, be it success or failure, and it cannot define an individual. Every milestone, whether big or little, had its struggle and sense of accomplishment for me. I still have a long way to go and a lot of work to do.

What has been your greatest lesson, and how have you used that lesson in your life?

The greatest lesson that I have learned is that success and failure are two sides of the coin, and they should always look like stepping-stones to move ahead. So, I don’t let success go to my head or failure dampen my spirits. I would say humility is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Photo Credit: Tide and Tribe Photography / Outfit: Glassons and Princess Molly / Location: Glenelg

If you could travel back in time and alter one historical event, where would you go, and what would you attempt to change?

I would not alter any of the past events of my life as it has shaped who I am today. But I would like to mention that one should only look at their past if they are going to build from it.

What do you think you came into this life to learn, and what do you think you came here to teach?

I consider every day as a new chapter with its ups and downs. I have always tried to be around positive people who have believed in my dreams, encouraged my ideas, supported my ambitions, and brought out the best in me. I resonate with those same values to people and organisations who need that support from me.

What projects are you working on right now?

Currently, I am focused on working on my career ahead in acting and honing my skills by attending workshops, events, reading literature, and the like.

What would you still like to attempt in your career?

My goal since childhood has been in creative industries, and hence from a young age, I have been learning several dance forms and performing. I would focus on furthering my skills, network, and work on projects that I find fulfilling in the coming years. However, I am aware that the road ahead will not be easy and requires great determination, hard work, and perseverance.

What advice would you give to those hoping to follow in your footsteps?

I am too young to offer any advice but can certainly share my thoughts. It has always been important to follow where my passion lies, there is nothing wrong if sometimes you need to alter or change your path, and it is never too late in life as every day is a new beginning.

Photo Credit: Tide and Tribe Photography / Outfit: Glassons and Princess Molly / Location: Glenelg

Woman Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Fabulous Pavli Ostrolucká

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Being creative and creating something new was always very important to Pavli Ostrolucká. Ever since she was a child, she wrote short stories, and she had a dream of becoming a bestseller novelist. But eventually, she fell for interior design, and now the fashion world. She started her Instagram account because it’s her escape to the creative world. She graduated from Medical school and worked as a Pediatrician in a general hospital. Creating for her blog allows her to express her creative self. But it’s not only about fashion; she enjoys styling outfits as much as taking photos or organizing visual feeds. Last but not least, it’s amazing to be a part of the community. She has met many people there who inspire her to be better.

 Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Pavli to discuss her journey as a fashionista, 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 online. Even “basic “fashion stores like Zara or Mango are 5 hours far from my city, so fewer shopping options forced me to search for more and try different styles. Generally, I don’t mind paying more for the quality. Quality materials feel better, look better and last longer, but of course, you can find gems in fast-fashion stores too. I love to browse Zalando or The Frankie shop when it comes to designer clothes. Moreover, The Frankie shop’s edits are so inspiring!

What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

Invest in boots. A good pair of boots not only keep you warm but can elevate any look. Knee-high boots on heels, rubber boots, and combat boots for an edgy street style look are some of my favourites. The same goes for coats. A good fit and cozy material are essential.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

The inspiration is all around you. There are direct ways to get inspired quickly – fashion magazines, Pinterest, or fashion influencers on Instagram. Pinterest is one of the best inventions; I love creating mood boards. But the inspiration can come from anywhere, and I often look beyond fashion, art, streets, culture, nature, architecture. I’m constantly searching for new locations that work as a good photo backdrop and could inspire an outfit or the whole mood.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

In my opinion, more important is to stay authentic. “Fashion is what you buy. Style is what you do with it. “Finding your personal style allows you to express yourself and to feel more confident. On the other hand, new trends are pushing me out of my comfort zone, and that’s the creative part I enjoy the most. It is hard to learn not to make impulsive decisions and buy clothes you won’t wear or need.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

I don’t really struggle with it. Staying true to yourself is the best way how to be unique and have loyal followers. When I work with brands, I have to like the product before recommending it to my audience. It is that simple.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

Lots of patterns, microwear or sheer dress, but my personal favourite is a structured blazer styled with Bermudas or skirt. There’s a lot of positive and sexy vibes to come the next season.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I think we should change our approach to fashion consumption. It’s well known the fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters. It produces greenhouse gas emissions and causes water pollution, not to mention often alarming working conditions in textile factories that supply fast-fashion brands. As fashion consumers, we are responsible for change. Some studies show that people don’t wear up to 88% of their wardrobe. How to start the change? Stop making shopping hauls, think about your purchase a day or two before buying it, and choose quality over quantity.

What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

If you buy clothes only for one season, does it mean you have a different style every season? My advice is to focus on building a capsule wardrobe for S/S and A/W seasons instead. When the garment is considered “last season, “let’s style it in a new fresh way, not get rid of it. I love my clothes and always try to buy pieces I can’t wait to wear the next season.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

It’s hard to succeed in a fashion world where’s a lot of competition but the most important in my opinion is to do things with passion. I’d only say set your goals clearly and enjoy yourself.

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?

I’m not a trendsetter and don’t feel like the right person to give advice on how to stay ahead. As previously said, making things with passion and hard work always pays off. Watching fashion shows and staying in touch with “big “influencers really helps. But it’s all right not to be the first; above all, be you; it’s your power.

Woman Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Emma Barrett

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Emma Barrett is originally from Brighton, UK, but now living in London. She’s a content creator on Instagram who produces pictures and reels showing affordable and wearable fashion. She wasn’t always a content creator – her background is originally in construction. However, she finally found the courage in September 2021 to start taking her Instagram seriously and share her style with others. She loves that content creation has brought her closer to other creators and loves connecting with her followers.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Emma to discuss her journey as a fashionista 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 buy my outfits from a whole range of different shops. My entire style and platform is about promoting affordable fashion that also looks expensive. My go-to shops are; Vero Moda, Zara, H&M, Weekend, and ASOS. I think the best thing is to look for great staple items – if you spend a little bit more on these items, you will be able to use them to create many different outfits.

What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

Layering! It’s a bit cliché, but layering is the only way I get through the colder months. I am constantly cold – whether outside or in the office, I always make sure to wrap up. I will always wear tights/ leggings/ thermals/vests underneath my clothes! Once this is paired with a good jumper and coat, no one can tell, and it helps you stay warm and fashionable.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

I get inspiration from various sources, but my go-to is definitely Instagram and Pinterest. Whenever I don’t know how to style something or am looking for inspiration, I will type in keywords on these platforms and take inspiration from others.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

Definitely! I think with the way fashion and media are going that it’s very difficult to stay fashionable. I try to go for more staple items that can be interchanged and tend not to go out of style as quickly.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

I think it’s very difficult to balance between these two. I would say that my style is to be wearable and fashionable at the same time. This means that I typically wear more commercial items; however, I try not to buy trends that would have a short shelf life and wear things that feel unique to my style/ are more timeless.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

Stripes are definitely in at the moment – stripe jumpers are a go too, perfect to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring. I’m also hoping to see some longer-length tops come back into fashion (rather than crop tops). My style is constantly evolving as I get older, and I am definitely considering more ‘practical’ pieces for my wardrobe.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I think that the fashion industry is more fast-paced than ever. However, I think this has meant that there isn’t necessarily one style that is ‘in.’ I personally am seeing a whole range of different styles and outfits being simultaneously trendy, which I hadn’t previously seen before.

What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

I’m not sure anyone should necessarily get rid of clothes that are ‘last season. Although we live in a very fast-paced fashion society, we also live in the most accepting of fashion. If you have an item in your wardrobe that is ‘last season’ but you still like it – why not wear it still?! I do! I have items in my wardrobe that I’ve had for ten-plus years and consider staple items. Having a good sort out of your wardrobe for things that you will no longer use is also good, and a great way to get rid of these is donating to charity for a second life.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

Don’t care about what other people think. I was very fashion-shy when I was younger, and I cared a lot about what people thought about me. I think the best thing to do is to try and shift your mindset to being open to exploring new things – it’s okay to change your style too! I’m constantly evolving and ‘improving’ my style, and some people may think that this is not who I am, but it definitely is. Just keep going, and you’ll find the fashion sense that you feel comfortable in.

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?

Research new trends through both Instagram and Pinterest – follow your favourite content creators and see what’s out there! TikTok is also a great way to see different styles through fun trends. It can be hard to necessarily ‘predict’ what trends will be in, but if you see something new that you like – wear it!

Man Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Dashing Dennis Walter

Posted on by Alex

Dennis Walter is 36 years of age and the founder of two digital advertising companies, and currently resurrecting a third digital enterprise; jack of all trades with an interest in menswear, cigars, music, chess, race biking, gaming, and the outdoors.

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Dennis, 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 normally shop online only, with 90% of my buys being made specifically for me (MTM or MTO). eBay is a great source for second-hand high-quality items, especially when you know what to look for and if you know your body measurements.

What are your top tips for fashion for the cooler months?

Layer up – it not only adds protective layers to keep you from getting cold, but it´s also a great way to combine colors, textures, and designs.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

A lot of different resources inspire me, be it books, films, or the accounts on IG I admire – there´s an abundance of guys with a great sense of style out there!

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

Not really – once you find out who you are and what you like to wear, it´s easy to stick to your drum. I´ve never cared much about fashion and prefer to dress exactly like I want – regardless of what´s “in” at the moment. This approach is much more sustainable and obtainable – since you only invest in pieces you will want to wear for the rest of your life.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

It really isn´t a thin line for me at all – since I´m dressing up mostly for myself, I don´t have to “please” anyone. Luckily, there are a lot of brands in my field of clothing that appreciate my aesthetics and are happy to partner up.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

I´ve seen a lot of tonal looks as of late, so outfits centering around a certain color shade (light brown or cream, for example). These do really look great if you´re able to mix and match.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

It slowly turns to more sustainability and environmental consciousness – which is to applaud. Still, too many fast-fashion retailers are out there, feeding an already saturated mass market with goods of questionable quality and eco-impacts – this needs to stop, and people should seriously consider a “less is more” approach.

What clothes can we rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

Phew, I definitely wouldn´t know – maybe the pair of ugly fashion sneakers with that blown-up, massively oversized dinghy sole?

What fashion advice would you give an emerging Men of Fashion Blogger?

Use Instagram as your inspiration mood board and consider your evolvement as a journey – you will buy things you will regret, you´ll wear stuff that will look odd two years from now, etc. Embrace this development as a “try.fail.fail better” process – you´ll find out what works best for you and what makes you feel like a million-dollar. Don´t copy trends – be unapologetically you.

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?

I wouldn´t be able to really give sound advice here – but maybe a life principle of mine can be applicable here as well: “be yourself – everybody else is already taken”. This is not to say we can´t change for the better – just make sure you stay true to yourself and don´t let anyone else define your value.