Category: FEATURED MODELS

Model Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Elhem Rich

Posted on by Alex

Elhem Rich was born and raised in Tunisia. When she was 13 years old, her father used to bring her several magazines; at that point, she discovered the world of fashion models and fashion brands. Since then, Elhem decided to get into the modeling industry. What she loves most about modeling is the sense of freedom – the fact she can be herself in front of the camera without any limitations coming back for more.

Elhem grew up in a conservative country, where women had fewer rights, and they were not free to speak up or even dress up the way they wanted. They face controversial issues such as prostitution, domestic violence, and religious fundamentalism. And that’s what inspired her to rebel against everything. She knew she could help inspire women and make a difference.

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Elhem, and here’s what went down:

What do you like most about being a model?

What I love most about modeling is the sense of freedom. The fact I can be myself in front of the camera without any limitations coming back for more. The fact that I grew up in a conservative country, where women have fewer rights, and they’re not free to speak up or even dress up the way they want. They face controversial issues such as prostitution, domestic violence, and religious fundamentalism. And that’s what inspired me to rebel against everything. I knew I could help inspire women and make a difference.

Downside to being a model?

Not getting paid a lot of money at the beginning.

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

The most memorable experience I’ve had so far was seeing my face in magazines, reminding me where I came from and how I made it so far. I also worked with amazing known brands; it’s a massive accomplishment for me.

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

I’ve had so many incredible experiences, met amazing people, and learned so much about them, the modeling industry, and more about myself.

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

You need to believe in yourself first before anyone else will. Enthusiasm is infectious, especially when that translates to self-confidence. If you don’t believe in yourself or think you are awesome, capable, smart, resourceful, and worthy of an opportunity, then who else will? Taking risks and being fearless is hard, but I promise you can do it.

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

My family is not supportive of being a model because of their traditional belief, but my dad is extremely proud of my achievements.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t do anything differently! I believe everything happens for a reason. If I didn’t go through those lessons, I would never be who I am today. I’m so proud of myself, how I made it too far, and I know that I’m here on Earth for a reason.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

Don’t compare yourself to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

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

I have a lot of plans; I want to work with some of the biggest modeling brands in the near future. I also want to land lead roles in the film and television industry. And of course, I want to have my own organization where I can focus on helping children and empowering women for the rest of my life.

The Lightning-Fast Round:

Last good movie I’ve seen: Bird Box.

2. What do you consider beautiful and why?

Be it any living being, a human, or an animal, for me, beauty lies in their heart. If their heart is beautiful, you don’t need to look for anything else. If their heart is beautiful, it automatically converts into beautiful actions, beautiful thinking, and beautiful behavior.

What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could?

Travel to Europe and some of my favorite islands such as Bali, Maldive, Hawaii, Bora Bora, etc.

Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d” be fearless! Fear is a choice; feel the fear and do it anyway.

Man Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Suave Massimo D’Agostino

Posted on by Alex

Massimo D’Agostino originally hails from South Italy but was born in Switzerland. As a kid, his Italian mum used to style him up for every occasion – that’s when his love for fashion and the feeling for color combinations started.

Besides his love for fashion, his other passion is traveling and discovering new places worldwide. He has been able to visit over 24 countries so far, but there are so many more he wants to discover and enjoy. His social media account is about fashion, lifestyle, and travel with style.

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Massimo, 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 shop everywhere as long as I like it; from Gucci to Prada to H&M and Zara to Uniqlo and Vintage shops. I have found my hidden designer gems in vintage second-hand shops, and these are shops where I regularly go to find some nice vintage pieces.

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

As I am a huge coat lover, I am supposed to say coats in different styles and fabrics. You can wear a very basic style and upgrade it with a nice coat and bag.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

There is not a special place where I take my inspiration. I take them everywhere. On the streets while traveling, on Instagram, in magazines, on TV. I mean literally everywhere.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

Being fashionable is such a huge expression. In my eyes, you can wear everything as long as you feel comfortable in it and you wear it with confidence. So to answer your question: no, it is not hard to stay fashionable.

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

I always have enough basic clothes in different colors in my wardrobe; t-shirts, sweaters, turtlenecks, and classic pants are never out of fashion and are timeless. Then, I buy new coats, jackets, bags, and sneakers to spice up the style. For me, it is all about the accessories.

Imagine a style with a black t-shirt and black pants. It’s nothing bad at all, but it is not the WOW Style. Now imagine how you put a very nice oversize houd’s tooth fabric coat on it, with nice Dr. Martens boots, Versace Sunglasses, and a cool Tote bag – now that’s a cool street style. In my opinion, with the accessories, magic happens!

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

Normal Trenchcoats and Leather Trenchcoats and red are very asked for the upcoming season.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I think fashion is getting faster and faster, but in the end, everything comes back again in fashion.

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

In my opinion, ripped jeans with patterns.

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

First of all, be patient and constant. You really need to love what you do and the story you want to tell; otherwise, it will be a short thing. Build up a network. Go to events, connect with people, and not only with people you think will be useful to you. You never know who they know, and suddenly a new opportunity comes. Don’t be selfish; help others as well.

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 would always buy high-quality basic things that last for ages and then create a style out of them. Like a painting, the canvas is always the same, and then you add the colors to it.

Man Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Charming Chulumanco August

Posted on by Gary

Chulumanco August is a man of style who hails from South Africa, Cape Town. He loves minimal and earth colors. He believes in following your style, having your unique way of presenting yourself, and remembering fashion is a trend, but style is your true identity.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Chulumanco to discuss his 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?

When I go shopping, I always look out for minimal and earth colors; these colors bring versatility to combining outfits. 

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

Since summer is around the corner, gents should invest in clothing that will make your skin breathe and start with your essentials; that’s the way to build a versatile wardrobe. 

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

Purpose and teaching are great inspirations as a fashion creative; most of all, I get direction from these two aspects. 

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

To stay fashionable is not hard; you just need to keep up with the latest trends, but I advise every gent to focus on knowing your style; that’s a true definition of who you are.

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

I always consider the way I style and combine clothes with a particular trend that brings in uniqueness and makes me a trendsetter. 

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

This year what I have noticed is that most of the well-known clothing brands are focusing more on loose fit styles, for me personally I don’t feel comfortable with this trend. I am more of a tight-fit gentleman.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

Fashion is changing each and every year that creates options for everyone to get out of their comfort zone.

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?

Personally, I advise that for every gent to just keep everything simple when shopping, look for something that will be easy to wear with a lot in your wardrobe. To make things easy for yourself follow your style, have your unique way of presenting yourself, and remember – fashion is a trend but style is your true identity.

Model Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Emily Nicks

Posted on by Alex

Emily Nicks originally started modeling by posing for local hobbyist photographers shortly after moving to Portland, Oregon. Since then, her modelling career has evolved, to the point that now she’s comfortable with how her modelling career is going.

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

What do you like most about being a model?

Modeling allows me to be more in touch with my body. I have learned how to utilize certain poses and facial expressions to alter and enhance others’ perceptions of me through it. Being a model has also granted me an abundance of confidence. It has taught me the perennial value of confident, feminine expression.

Downside to being a model?

Having a career based largely on aesthetics makes it easy for me to compare myself to others in the industry. This competitiveness often causes models like me to wrestle with self-esteem issues and feelings of inferiority.

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

Seeing my autonomy and self-confidence develop has been the most memorable experience of my modelling career. Using my body to express myself positively has exponentially increased my feelings of self-love and continues to do so every day.

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

The most interesting people I have met throughout my modelling career have been other models. These women are some of the most courageous, tenacious, and compassionate people I know.

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

My time in the modeling industry has strongly emphasized the value and necessity of autonomy. Independence from social expectations, unattainable standards, and pressure to compete is vital to one’s overall happiness in both thought and practice.

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

My family is largely supportive of me being a model. Like most parents, my mom and dad worry about the unknown, but they trust my intuition and judgment.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

If I could return to the start of my modeling career, I would be more skeptical about who I gave my time to. Some people in the industry are quick to take advantage of newcomers, often promising to bolster their careers but exercising more nefarious intentions.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

Most models will tell you that safety is always their priority when attending a shoot, speaking with potential clients, or posting content. I use this advice in every facet of my career.

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

In the not-too-distant future, I plan to attend law school. In doing so, I hope to achieve a viable platform to effect the most change for those in marginalized corners of society. The amazingly brave and talented models, sex workers, and content creators I have met throughout my career have been some of my greatest inspirations for this goal, and I hope one day to eradicate some of the hardships they face in their daily lives.

Fashionista Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Shane Lin

Posted on by Alex

Shane Lin was born in Taiwan, educated in Boston, and now based in London. Coming from a long line of businessmen and women, she followed her family’s footsteps and studied Entrepreneurship and Economics, which later landed her a career in construction management and consultancy services. Due to the nature of her job, Shay has been working in male-dominated industries for years. As a female and a minority, she is very much aware that women had to fight much harder to be heard and seen in the workplace and society. Being encouraged by her sister and friends, Lin decided to start an account as her creative outlet. She explores the benefits of using her platform to amplify women’s voices by sharing her everyday style and hoping to, in the slightest, inspire the ladies out there to stop picking apart their bodies, discover their most attractive selves, and feel confident in their own skin.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Shane 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 am a big believer in high-low fashion. I find mixing more expensive tailored pieces with more casual everyday pieces makes me look more styled and aesthetically balanced when done right. Aritzia, Storet, Arket, and COS do quality staple pieces with a subtle twist. Mango and H&M are also my go-to’s and good places for trendy and basic pieces at a more affordable price. For the past few seasons, they carried the most beautiful knitwear and dresses. I like to shop for jeans and trousers at Uniqlo. There’s something about their design that fits your body like a glove. I’d go to Zara for trend pieces as they are fast at catching on to the latest trends without breaking the bank. I would check out third-party retail websites like Farfetch, Net-a-Porter, and Forward for brands with hefty price tags. I’m always on the lookout for the best deal and shop around off-season or at the end of the season before I take the plunge.

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

Layering. Instead of putting on just one layer of top and a heavy coat, I’d start with a high neck or a crew neck sweater, throw on a blazer for a little bit of structure and complete the look with an oversized coat/jacket. This combo not only keeps me snug in cooler months but provides versatility for multiple occasions. I would also choose a nice pair of boots that give room for thick socks for some added warmth.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

I usually take inspiration from Pinterest, people on the street, my mom and auntie (I might sound partial, but their generation had the best style, in my opinion). I also like to take ideas from other creators but avoid styling pieces the same way they look at others. I will usually personalize it to suit my aesthetic as some styles might suit others but might not make you feel 100% comfortable with them.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

To me, staying fashionable is to have a clear mind and idea of what works best for you. Social media can be a double-edged sword. It is super helpful for new ideas, style tips, and inspiration, but it can make you feel more confused about what you want at times simply because there is too much going on out there at every single second. When I run out of ideas, instead of hunting frantically for ideas from social media, I would have a good look at my wardrobe and lay everything out in front of me. This helps to style things up visually in terms of what colors and pieces coordinate and harmonize.

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

Under the influence of social media, we are so vulnerable to losing our individuality because we are not looking like someone else. What is in today can be out tomorrow. Don’t get me wrong; I used to fall into the trap of catching trends without thinking if that would suit or pair with the rest of my wardrobe. I believe comfort and fashion are equally important. I now tend to go for styles that I am the most comfortable with and confident in. At the end of the day, your uniqueness will only shine through if you are being yourself.

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

I see cut-out dresses or tops everywhere. I find this trend easy to replicate and not too “trend” driven. When done very minimally, I find a classically fit dress with very flattering and very fine slits, which adds a little extra something in a very inoffensive way. This year, I also see many blue and yellow in accessories and clothing, from duck egg blue, bright royal blue, and custard yellow. I love the contrast the vibrant colors create when paired with deeper shades, especially grey.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I am happy to see more and more people promote sustainable fashion. Both brands and consumers are putting more emphasis on sustainable production and consumption. The focus of the whole industry is shifting towards more of an environmentally-friendly narrative.

It’s got us to put more thought into what goes behind a piece of clothing and if what we buy has been ethically or environmentally produced. We don’t have to purchase new clothes constantly to create a new look or to stay current. We need to realize the power of reinventing, restyling, and reinvesting in something we already own. It’s still a long way to go, but I’d like to think we are on the right track.

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

Low-waisted jeans, neon-colored items, branded monogram belts, super exaggerated platform shoes need to be out the door. Those used to be the ‘it’ items, and you see them everywhere….(still remember that studded or rhinestoned Ed Hardy). It’s just my personal opinion, but I’m over them.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

I once heard a stylist named Molly Bingaman say that “the most attractive look is always the most authentic one.” I 100% resonate with that. How to show up authentically is something I believe we all struggle to a different degree at some point in our life. We put ourselves at the mercy of the critics and are constantly seeking acceptance, and because of that, we start questioning our style, taste, body image, and identity. My advice would be to take that control back. Don’t feel insecure if you don’t look like someone else. Celebrate your uniqueness, discover your authentic self, and everything will follow naturally.

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?

Don’t follow trends blindly, and don’t spend a ton of money on overhyped items. New trends are created every day and can spread overnight thanks to social media. Don’t feel like you need to catch that trends train all the time. I’d say to be selective and discreet about the fashion elements that are trending and mix bits and pieces with what you already have. Keep things simple. You don’t need to be doing what other people are doing. Source unique and classic pieces that will stand the test of time and will complement you and your wardrobe.

Man Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Dashing Luka

Posted on by Alex

Luka is a fashion stylist and digital influencer who hails from Sydney, Australia. He gets fashion inspo mostly from movies or out on the streets, and he’s very open-minded when it comes to shopping for clothes – he can shop in prominent designer boutiques but also wear local designer brands.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Luka to discuss his 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’m very open-minded when I’m shopping. I can go to either big designer boutiques, but I also love shopping for local designer brands too. I think it is very important to support them.

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

I think the trick is to layer it out since you are going to spend time indoor. Having a nice top/pants and putting a super vibe coach can create a perfect outfit. Having simple colours is always the safest option to play around the season.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

Mostly on movies and the street. I do love bloggers and magazines, but I think you have to find your style first instead of copying someone.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

No, it’s not. As soon as you dress for yourself and be confident, it is not hard at all.

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

I think you need to find a line that you want to be first and add things to your personality, so people will understand who you are.

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

Since the pandemic started, I think we are all going back into a more comfortable style, which I believe will be continuous for the next season.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I think fashion has become very important globally, but we always got to remember that we can’t be slaves of fashion.

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

I’m always donating pieces that I haven’t worn for a while. However, I recycle a lot of clothes as trends always come back, so we must reuse things again.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

Be yourself and play simple first.

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?

It is tough to keep up with every single trend out there, so I think having a simple knowledge of what’s is on at the moment and trying to adapt it in your own style is the key to staying ahead of the curve.

Most Promising Model Of The Week: Introducing The Stunning Anita Hosseini

Posted on by Krissy Anderson

Anita Hosseini initially got started in the modelling industry via John Casablancas’ agency where she learned about modeling and the industry. While she was taking classes there, she got discovered by T.H.E artist agency in Washington D.C and that was the beginning of my modeling career.

Modeling made her confident over time. Before she started modeling she wouldn’t take a portrait or even regular close-up photos of herself because she didn’t have the confidence to look at the camera. But as she began to do a lot of photoshoots, she realized that the camera is her best friend and she’s so comfortable and confident in front of it now. Modeling made a confident person out of her that she could ever imagine.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Anita to discuss her journey in the modelling world and here’s what went down:

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

The most memorable experience in modeling industry is my first magazine cover shoot. When I arrived at that shoot, I just knew that the shoot is for a bridal magazine. I was so excited about it but as we moved forward with the shoot the director told me that one of the shots is going to be on the cover and that blew my mind and made me so happy. I will never forget that day and never forget my first magazine cover job.

Downside to being a model?

When you love what you do there is never going to be a downside to it and you will never get to the point that you will get tired of it even when it can be exhausting and tiring, the job you do is enjoyable.

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

I can’t think of one person or one group of people because I was always surrounded by amazing people during my photoshoots and I’m always amazed at how lucky I am to have this opportunity.

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

One time, someone told me when you think you can’t do something, act like you can do it the best you can and no one is better than you – that way you’re going to give that feeling to yourself, and the people watching you will think that you’re the best.

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

My family has always been a big part of my success and where I am today wouldn’t be possible without their support and I never take that for granted.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t do anything differently, the universe always puts you in the best place you need to be at that moment.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

9. Never listen to advice.

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

10. My future plans are countless however living a happy and healthy life and being surrounded by the people I love is my forever plan but in the next few years, I’m planning to create my own clothing brand, that’s what I’m going to fashion school for.

LIGHTNING-FAST ROUND

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: A star is born.

2. What do you consider beautiful and why? Beauty isn’t about having a pretty face it’s about having a pretty heart.

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Competing in Miss Universe is something that’s always been my biggest dream.

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d ” Travel the world without a time limit and get to know all the cultures and people around the world.

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? Being present in my life and living in the moment instead of rushing to get to the end.

Most Promising Model Of The Week: Introducing The Stunning Nikol Stach

Posted on by Alex

When Nikol Stachwas around 12 years old, her Aunty asked her if she could be a model just for her assignment at a makeup school. She did a shoot after her makeup was done and the photographer asked her if she does any modelling as she “knew how to move” in his opinion. This got her interested in modelling but she never acted on it at the time. It was only when her Instagram started to grow and she received an email from a photographer asking to shoot her that she took it seriously. Ever since then she just continued networking and finding modelling jobs regularly.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Nikol to discuss her journey in the modelling world and here’s what went down:

What do you like most about being a model? 

The thing I like most about being a model is the fact that I get to create and be creative. I especially love shoots where I get to style and create little scenarios which tell a story. 

Downside to being a model? 

The biggest downside, in my opinion, would probably have to be that we constantly get compared to one another as models. Even though the industry is becoming more and more inclusive, I still feel as though you really need to have thick skin when it comes to certain aspects of this business.  

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

There have been many memorable experiences throughout my career, but at this moment I am most grateful for my move to Melbourne, where I’m loving the change in work.  

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

I honestly can’t choose, I meet so many different people every day and I think all are equally as interesting, and I love getting to know everyone. 

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

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned being in the industry is that, if you believe in yourself and really portray that energy, others will also believe in you, sure, looks play a part but confidence is equally as important. 

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

My family is supportive of me being a model but still wishes I chose a more traditional career. 

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

I don’t think I’d do anything differently as my past has led to my current life. 

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

The best advice I’ve ever been given would have to be “No one works harder for you than you working for yourself.”

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

My future career plans consist of getting into the acting business, and travelling as soon as we can. 

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: Moana.

2. What do you consider beautiful and why? All things nature, because it makes me feel connected to the earth and gives me energy. 

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Travelled around the world, especially to tropical locations. 

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d ” be a stunt person. 

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? I wouldn’t change anything about myself.

Fashionista Of The Week: Introducing The Fabulous Ingrid Martínez

Posted on by Alex

Ingrid Martínez (@ingridmartinezcas) has always loved fashion. She studied Advertising and Public Relations and then completed a master’s degree in Fashion and Luxury Communication at Elle magazine. She became a fashionista because she wanted to do something professionally with fashion; so she started to upload her various looks via her Instagram account which gained more and more followers and the rest you can say is history.

Model & Mode magazine recently had a one on one interview with the talented Ingrid and here’s what happened:

Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?

I usually shop at Zara, Mango, or Uterqüe. For handbags I am more selective, I like Michael Kors, Celine, and YSL. A great tip to buy designer clothes is to go to second-hand stores; start searching and with a little patience you can get very good clothes and even some real jewels.

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

I love the cold months! I really like winter clothes and playing with layers. Although I tend to dress very monochromatic, during the cold months I like to add a pop of color with blouses or handbags. The key is balance and not to stop dressing how you would like to just because it’s winter and it’s cold.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

Everywhere. On the street, magazines, Pinterest. I also have a saved folder on Instagram about different looks. Runways are also great for inspiration.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

Yes and no, it depends on the mood I would say. There are times when I just want to wear a tracksuit because I’m tired and others when I want to go out as if I were going to walk down a runway. It is important to respect those moods in which you would like to be more comfortable, but you can always give it some style with some good accessories, a good hairstyle, or red lips.

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

Being unique is already a commercial attraction in itself. In this world, it is important to have your own personality and brands realize that. They don’t want copies, they want you to shine on your own, that’s what makes you attractive.

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

It is clear that color is the trend that is being worn the most right now. A trend that I used to resist, but now I love it. A green silk blouse, with jeans and white sandals, is the perfect look for a summer afternoon.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

That it is changing and that is good. I see a trend in fashion that we have been asking for a long time and that is that it should not be so changeable, that is, that it should not be so fast. I see it in several brands, especially in Spanish brands that manufacture in Spain. They seek to create clothes that are sustainable and that last over time, which I love.

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

The hip jeans and platform sandals. They were already worn some time ago and came back, the truth is that it is a fashion that I did not like at all and that went away for many years.

Fashionista Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Maria King

Posted on by Gary

Maria King of “What_maria_wears” was originally born in Poland, but she has lived in Australia since the end of 2018. About a year ago, she was laid off from her job due to COVID-19 and she can definitely say that this event was the main driving force for her to start something new and that is when @what_maria_wears began.

As a professionally trained ballet dancer and graduate of Media Education and Journalism, she has always been a highly creative and social person, so creating her Instagram page was exactly what she needed. It gave her an opportunity to share the way she expresses herself through fashion, create content and connect with a lot of amazing women. The amount of support she has received from the community was more than what she expected, and it has been her biggest motivation since. She finds it amazing to see how women can support and inspire each other. After nearly a year she can honestly say that she’s happy with where her platform is heading and she’s incredibly grateful for all the amazing opportunities she was given when it came to collaborating with Australian and overseas fashion and beauty brands. Now she’s ready to grow more and see where it takes her.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Maria 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?

“What_maria_wears” is all about affordable fashion. I specialize in versatile styling and creating low-cost outfits, that look anything but cheap. I believe that fashion is for all of us, no matter what the budget is. I find designer fashion certainly not affordable for the average woman, so I shop anywhere I can find inexpensive fashion. There are plenty of brands like that here in Australia, you just have to have an open mind and do not limit yourself. I am also a huge fan of op shopping so I would definitely recommend those to anyone looking for hidden gems when it comes to fashion. Personally, I reckon half of my closet is second-hand.

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

The key to Autumn/Winter fashion for me is layering. There are a few tips and tricks on how to layer clothes and still look stylish. Some of my favourites are to invest in lightweight pieces for the base layer such as cotton blends or merino wool that still keeps you warm. Add thick knit on the top of that, use a coat as the very outer layer and you are ready to go!

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

I think inspiration is everywhere, as general as it sounds but it is true. You can get inspired by people you see on the streets, other fashion content creators, magazines you read, and even with movies you watch. I would not say that people particularly look for inspiration, I think it’s more of that inspiration is around us and it’s just important to be able to see it.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

My overall goal is not to be fashionable at all. It is to inspire women, help them find their style, stick to it, and “shop” their closet. What I do is focusing on building my personal style and not really focusing on following trends. Of course, there are some trends I love but I always make sure that the items I add to my wardrobe are items I will love and wear for years. I find it very upsetting that some people buy a certain item and wear it once, considering the impact the fashion industry has on our environment.

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

I set my own goals and boundaries, so I don’t find it hard at all. On my platform, I want to stay transparent and true to myself so I only collaborate with brands that suit my style and brands I believe that my audience would genuinely love. Having so many content creators nowadays, it is important not to compare yourself to others and believe in yourself. I am aware that I am not for everyone, and I am not trying to be. I focus on sharing what I love, and I am happy my audience enjoys it.

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

Trends come and go and it is impossible to keep up with all of them. I personally focus more on classic and staple pieces when it comes to styling but of course, there are some trends that have caught my attention. Statement sleeves, oversized fits, shoulder-padded pieces are some of my favourites. There are so many interesting ones, but I only go for the ones that suit my preferences.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I think there is a lot happening in fashion and I think that is what confuses most people who cannot find their own style. Trends are changing so much, and people are “told” what they should wear but they do not consider many important factors such as their personality, body type, or lifestyle. I would like to see, from us consumers more of a personal approach to fashion. To stop religiously following trends and focusing more on creating your unique style. Of course, there is nothing wrong with buying trendy items, as long as you buy them because you genuinely love them not because you feel you should, or other people wear them.

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

I do not think that we should add or remove items from our wardrobes based on trends. Why would you get rid of a coat that works for you and your closet only because other people start wearing something different? I personally stick to basic and staple pieces, and I build my style around it. Sometimes I will add a trendy piece because I like it, but it is always something that I am planning on wearing and keeping for a long time. I think people should focus more on building a capsule wardrobe that works for their style and lifestyle instead of following trends.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

I am not sure if I am in a place yet to give advice, but if there is something I have learned that I could share with people who are starting their journey with fashion, it is to stay true to yourself. Do not try to be like everyone else because then there is nothing that makes you different. Fashion is for everyone, but style is something very personal.

The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years, what is the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?

I am still very new in the fashion industry, so it is hard to say. I think we should treat fashion as a space that has a lot to offer and use it in our own way, the way that works for us. I think it is not necessary to “stay ahead of the curve” because, in my opinion, that is not the point. Fashion should give us joy and freedom to express ourselves through it, not cause headaches and stress to be “the first”, at least from my side, as a consumer and fashion lover.