I think fashion is what we make of it; I believe in reinventing, recycling to stay unique and look minimal and chic at the same time. Also, comfort always comes first. I personally really like and follow Ashima Makhija and Shaurya Sanadhya for some fashion inspiration.
Retro Kolkata : First of all, thanks a lot for accepting our invitation for an interview. Please say something about you. About your career as a fashion Influencer & Content creator. How did you get started? Surabhi : I have done my Masters in Microbiology, even worked as a trainee scientist at a well-known MNC. While I was pursuing my masters, I used to write beauty articles for a beauty website and I got hooked. I began posting content on Instagram and within no time, I started getting a lot of love there. When I was sure I had a stable income, I wanted to take content creation as a full time job and I did just that! I now own 2 beauty websites, have a successful Instagram account (@surabhi_littlereviews) and a YouTube channel (Surabhi Pisal).
Retro Kolkata : You have an exceptionally unique look. Where does your style savvy come from, and where do you get your inspiration?
Surabhi : My style always depends on comfort, mood and the occasion. For inspiration, I always take a look at Pinterest fashion and beauty boards, they have the best recommendations.
Retro Kolkata : Tell us about your fashion mantra? Any fashion icons that you personally like or follow?
Surabhi : I think fashion is what we make of it; I believe in reinventing, recycling to stay unique and look minimal and chic at the same time. Also, comfort always comes first. I personally really like and follow Ashima Makhija and Shaurya Sanadhya for some fashion inspiration.
Retro Kolkata : How do you get involved with your followers and find the best way to give them the content they want?
Surabhi : I absolutely love making interactive Instagram stories and always post a question sticker to know what my followers want to see; that is exactly how I stay relatable. I also take replying to comments very seriously, it is the best way to stay in touch and know what the audience likes.
Retro Kolkata : How do you select brands you work with? When was your first collaboration with a brand?
Surabhi : If I am being approached by a brand, the first thing I see is if the brand resonates with my niche and style and If I personally like the brand/product. And if the brand is already in my Wishlist or if I already really love the brand then nothing like it, no second thoughts while working with such brands. Now coming to the second part, My first collaboration with a brand was I think almost 1 year after I began posting on Instagram.
Retro Kolkata : What has been your best fashion purchase ever?
Surabhi : I love accessories and I feel they can instantly add a spark to any look. My best fashion purchase would be my gold-diamond ring and Michael Kors watch.
Retro Kolkata : If you had to name one thing, what would be your favourite thing in your wardrobe right now?
Surabhi : A classic white shirt is hands down one of the most versatile piece in my closet. It’s transeasonal and can be styled in multiple ways at any given occasion. It’s my fav!
Retro Kolkata : What are your three favourite trends at the moment?
Surabhi : I’ll start with beauty trends, I love a good ombre just-bitten lip and would definitely love to try the hidden rainbow hair colour! Coming to fashion, it would be colour clashing using pastels.
Retro Kolkata : What are the three essential elements of fashion that every girl should have?
Surabhi : According to me, the first and most important element would be confidence! Whatever you wear be it fashion or beauty, wear it with confidence. Second- Less is more! Over accessorizing or/and using more than 3 different dominant colours in the same outfit would be a little too much. Third- Playing and experimenting with textures.
Retro Kolkata : Do you have any Beauty/Skin Care tips or Tricks to look fresh and rested for early morning Photo shoot?
Surabhi : I love a good ice massage in the morning, gives a flushed glow and reduces puffiness; Try freezing pure rose water into ice cubes for added benefits. You can also use a chilled jade roller for lymphatic drainage- will make you look instantly fresh and all set!
Retro Kolkata : Give us 5 fun facts people might not know about you yet.
Surabhi : (1) I have maintained a ‘Gratitude book; since 2017 wherein I write things I am grateful for and things I want to achieve, I can proudly say I’ve managed to gradually achieve 70% of listed things. I am a strong believer of the Law Of Attraction.
(2) I often feel guilty if I am home and if I do not work, the very reason I often even work on weekends to have a peaceful night’s sleep. My work drives me and I love that about myself.
(3) I have always been a shy kid in school and most of my college life. Facing the camera almost daily and interacting with my followers has given me a whole new level of confidence and a chance to work on myself- the change I always needed.
(4) I have my own research work published in the International Journal of Current Research In Biosciences and Plant Biology wherein I worked with some natural plant extracts to see if they have anti-dandruff activity (and they definitely did). This is where I got my love for home remedies.
(5) I have an obsession with ‘Saving Money’ and I feel my husband Chirag has a major role to play here, he is the one who taught me how important this is. I make sure to save at least 50% of my annual income and I am always successful in doing so. I also believe in not spending the money I don’t already have to buy things I don’t really ‘NEED’ the very reason why I don’t own a credit card. I mean it’s ok to splurge sometimes, but also focus on saving your money.
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