Behind the curtains: An insight into the reality of being a fashion influencer

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, influencers have become the new trendsetters. But what does it take to be a fashion influencer? A candid interview with Dody van den Bos, an influencer with over 15K followers on Instagram and Tiktok, reveals the intricate dynamics, challenges, and the thrill of working in this fast-paced industry.

Accidental Beginnings

Most people might assume that the path to becoming a fashion influencer is carefully planned, but in reality, it can be as unpredictable as the industry itself. For Dody, his journey began somewhat by chance during the Covid-19 pandemic. Bored at home, he began posting outfit inspirations online. Little did he know that these posts would catch the eye of the 'right people,' leading him down an unexpected career path.

The Excitement and Unpredictability

One of the most enticing aspects of being a fashion influencer is the spontaneity that comes with the job. Unlike a traditional 9 to 5 job where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, being a fashion influencer is all about embracing randomness. Whether it's meeting diverse individuals in the industry or engaging in various types of activities, every day is a new adventure.

A Day in a 'Not-So-Average' Life

We asked Dody what an average workday looks like, and don't be surprised the job is multifaceted and ever-changing. For example, on an average day, he might spend one day scouting the perfect locations for photo shoots, another day visiting stores to generate new content, and another brainstorming and planning future posts with fellow influencers.

The Flip Side: Challenges

However, it's not all glitz and glamour. The breakneck speed of the fashion industry means constant pressure to innovate. The shelf life of content is often extremely short; a video that goes viral today might be forgotten tomorrow. This ceaseless demand for newness can lead to creative exhaustion and mental fatigue.

Desire for Change

When asked about what he would change in his job or the industry, Dody highlighted the transient nature of online content. He expressed a wish for audiences to have longer attention spans and a deeper appreciation of the work that goes into content creation.

Brand Partnerships and Financial Stability

Selecting which brands to collaborate with is often an organic process, guided by personal style and ethical considerations. For Dody, brand choices like Aime Leon Dore or Celine signify alignment with his own fashion philosophy. Financial sustainability in this career is unpredictable but achievable in Dody’s case, he recently realised he could fully support himself through their fashion endeavours.

Words of Wisdom

To those aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Dody offers a simple but powerful piece of advice: “Stay authentic. In a world overflowing with trends, originality is your most valuable asset”.

Future Avenues

As for what lies ahead, Van den Bos is contemplating a move behind the scenes, perhaps working with creative agencies or becoming a stylist. He sees it as a way to evolve within the industry while leveraging his existing skills and network.

In conclusion, being a fashion influencer is a career full of contrasts—exciting yet demanding, rewarding but exhausting. As social media continues to reshape the fashion landscape, influencers will remain at the forefront, setting trends and pushing boundaries, all while navigating the complexities of online fame and transient attention.