In an exclusive conversation with Nandini, Italian influencer Alessandra Gillio took us through her unique journey in the world of fashion, offering insights into her rise to fame and the principles that guide her career. She told about her passion for industry and how she worked towards her goal.Here are some of the key moments from her interview:
Her fascination for the industry started from a young age and how only after the COVID lockdown she truly learned the potential of social media. On being asked about her journey to become and influencer she said ,‘From a young age, I was fascinated by the power of visual aesthetics and how they could convey complex emotions and stories. However, it wasn’t until the global lockdown due to COVID that I fully realized the potential of social media as a platform for sharing my journey with the world. Confined to my home and faced with an unexpected surplus of time, I began to explore new creative outlets. I started taking selfportraits, capturing various aspects of my daily life and expressing my individuality through the lens. This hobby quickly transformed into a career as my content resonated with a growing audience.’
On being asked about her being a speaker in RDSnext ,she replied with,‘Being the speaker at RDSnext, in my own show, has been a transformative experience in my career. It represents a significant leap from sharing my thoughts and experiences online to engaging with an audience in a more direct and impactful way. This opportunity has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the role of a thought leader in my industry.’ She further told how it was a great way to be able to inspire people beyond posts ,‘It’s one thing to inspire people through posts and images, but speaking at RDSnext has given me a platform to connect with people on a deeper level, sharing the nuances of my journey and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. This experience has also reinforced my commitment to authenticity and creativity, as I’ve had to reflect deeply on what truly drives me and how I can use my platform to inspire and uplift others.’
Every journey comes with struggles and hers is no exception. As we know like many other fields modelling industry is also filled with competition and is full of challenges. On being asked about her journey she expressed,‘From the very beginning, I faced numerous rejections and obstacles, each one testing my resolve to pursue this path. I had to constantly prove myself, not just in terms of my physical appearance but also in demonstrating that I had the tenacity and professionalism required to succeed.’ She told us how there are standards to maintain to prove yourself in the industry and about her big break in the industry,‘The pressure to conform to industry standards while maintaining my unique identity was a delicate balance I had to navigate. Despite the challenges, I remained steadfast in my belief that my individuality would eventually be recognized. My big break came when I landed a collaboration with Guess for L’Officiel Austria, where I was honored to be the cover model. This achievement was a pivotal moment in my career, validating all the hard work and persistence I had invested.It also reinforced my belief that staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity, is crucial in an industry that often demands conformity.’
She told us about her experience on walking the red carpet at Cannes,‘Walking the red carpet at Cannes is one of the most surreal and proud moments of my life. It’s not just about the glitz and glamour; it’s about being recognized on a global stage that celebrates excellence in art and cinema. For me, being on that red carpet is a testament to years of dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief in my dreams.’ She adds further about how the experience felt to her and how it felt to be part of a community of worlds talented figures,‘The experience is both humbling and exhilarating—humbling because it reminds me of the countless individuals who support and inspire me, and exhilarating because it represents the pinnacle of my career achievements. The pride I feel is deeply personal, as it validates the journey I’ve taken, full of challenges and triumphs. Being there, surrounded by the world’s most talented and influential figures, also inspires me to continue pushing boundaries in my work, knowing that I am part of a community that values creativity and excellence.’
She gave us 3 tips for hair care,‘
- Prioritize Color Care: If you frequently experiment with hair color, like I do, it’s essential to use high-quality products that protect and maintain the vibrancy of your hair. My hair is a significant part of my identity, and I regularly change its color within the red spectrum. To keep it healthy and vibrant, I rely on products that nourish my hair, prevent damage, and retain its shine.
- Avoid Over-processing: It’s crucial to be mindful of the long-term health of your hair, especially if you enjoy bold colors. For instance, if you have light-colored hair, avoid using excessively dark or black hues, as these can be harsh and lead to damage over time. Instead, opt for colors that enhance your natural tones and are easier to maintain without compromising your hair’s integrity.
- Embrace Versatility in Styles: Incorporating versatile hairstyles that complement your hair color can make a significant difference in your overall look. For example, pairing certain shades with denim outfits can create a stylish and cohesive appearance. Experimenting with different styles that align with your personal aesthetic can help you discover what works best for you, making your hair care routine more enjoyable and effective.’
It’s Important to have something that’s sets you apart from all the other people around you to gain success in the industry so on asked g her what sets her apart in her nuche she replied with,‘What truly sets me apart from other influencers in my niche is my unwavering commitment to authenticity and my distinctive aesthetic. My striking red hair and greenish eyes create a unique visual signature that instantly catches attention, but it’s the depth of my personality and the genuine energy I bring to my content that truly resonate with my audience. I believe that people are drawn to me not just for my appearance but for the positivity and enthusiasm I exude in everything I do.’ She adds further about how staying true to herself helps her in setting herself apart ,‘I focus on staying true to my own style and voice, which is heavily influenced by my artistic background. This approach allows me to connect with my followers on a deeper level, as they can sense the authenticity behind my content. Additionally, I make it a point to engage with my audience genuinely, fostering a community where they feel seen and valued. This personal connection is what I believe differentiates me from others in the field.’
On being aksed what advice She would give to an person who is just starting out in her career . She gave a list of advice for new inflencers, she replied with,‘If you’re just starting out in the influencer world, my biggest piece of advice is to be authentic and true to yourself. The influencer space is incredibly saturated, and the only way to stand out is by being uniquely you. Don’t be afraid to showcase your personality, your quirks, and your passions, even if they don’t align with mainstream trends. Consistency is also key—make sure you’re regularly posting content that reflects your brand and engages your audience. Building a community is more important than simply gaining followers; focus on creating meaningful connections with your audience, responding to their comments, and involving them in your journey. Also, don’t get discouraged by slow growth or negative feedback—every influencer faces these challenges. Instead, use them as opportunities to learn and improve. Lastly, remember that this is a marathon, not a sprint. Success in this field takes time, patience, and a lot of hard work, but if you stay true to your vision, it will eventually pay off.’
On being asked how she mainatains her style and voice while keeping up with trends. She tells us how she maintains a balance between both and stays true to her style too, she replied with,‘Keeping up with trends is important in the fast-paced world of social media, but it’s equally crucial to filter these trends through your personal style and voice. For me, this means integrating the latest fashion elements in a way that aligns with my rock-inspired aesthetic. I stay informed about current trends by following industry news, attending events like Milan Fashion Week, and observing how these trends can be adapted to fit my unique look. However, I never let trends dictate my style. Instead, I use them as a source of inspiration, blending them with my own preferences to create something new and authentic.’
As we know being in the public eye comes with a set of challenges so when she was aksed about this she replied with,‘Being in the public eye comes with its own set of challenges, but I’ve found that setting clear boundaries is essential for managing these demands. While I share a significant part of my life with my audience, there are aspects of my personal life that I keep private. This separation helps me maintain my mental and emotional well-being.’ Additionally she tells us how being surrounded by supportive people and having a routine helps you in life,‘I prioritize self-care routines that help me stay grounded, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and taking time for creative pursuits like painting or photography. It’s also important to surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and family who can offer guidance and a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.’ And she tells us more about managing online interactions ‘While I deeply value the connection I have with my followers, I’m mindful of the time I spend on social media to avoid burnout. Balancing my public persona with my private life is an ongoing process, but with the right practices in place, it’s possible to navigate the challenges of being in the spotlight.’
On being asked about what practices she follows to maintain a balanced lifestyle amidst the busy schedule of an influencer , she replied with,‘Maintaining a balanced lifestyle amidst the busy schedule of an influencer requires discipline and intentionality. I make it a priority to carve out time for activities that promote both physical and mental well-being. For instance, I incorporate regular exercise into my routine, which not only keeps me fit but also helps me manage stress. Whether it’s a workout session, a walk, or something more adventurous like slacklining, staying active is crucial for my overall health. Nutrition is another cornerstone of my balanced lifestyle. I focus on eating a well-rounded diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals that provide the energy I need to keep up with my demanding schedule. Additionally, I make time for my creative passions, such as photography and art.’
