In the vibrant and bustling city of Tirana, a young girl embarked on a journey that would take her to dazzling heights in the world of fashion. She metamorphosed into a figure of grace, radiating elegance that transcended borders, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion industry. The luminous Amina Shena Dollapi, now renowned for her sterling career and her striking resemblance to the legendary Marilyn Monroe, welcomes us into her world in an exclusive interview with Retro Kolkata magazine. With poise and candor, she unveils snippets from her extraordinary journey.
Retro Kolkata: Amina, welcome to Retro Kolkata magazine. With a flourishing modeling career that began at the age of 15, what were some of the challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them?
Amina: Thank you for the invite. The challenge was taking the first steps and making the right decisions. Each set has its own challenges, and I had to work regardless of the weather conditions or heel fatigue.
Retro Kolkata: You've been crowned "Miss Queen of Europe" and "Miss Fotozhenia" at such a young age. Can you share what those experiences were like, and how they shaped your journey in the modeling industry?
Amina: Yes, I participated at a young age. It was a very nice experience, and it helped me in my career as a model.
Retro Kolkata: Your work has taken you across borders, working with various companies both domestically and internationally. Can you share some of your most memorable experiences or collaborations from your career?
Amina: I have been working in the modeling industry for 16 years. The experiences are varied, and the collaborations many. I like to differentiate with every brand I have worked with. I continue to work every year, and I would say this is the most important thing.
Retro Kolkata: As an ambassador for Fashionnova, one of the biggest fashion brands globally, what does this role mean to you, and how do you incorporate their fashion philosophy into your personal style?
Amina: At Fashionnova, there are clothes with different styles that can suit everyone. I choose clothes that fit me because I adhere to a classic style.
Retro Kolkata: Born and raised in Tirana, how has the cultural and artistic scene of your hometown influenced your sense of fashion and your approach to modeling?
Amina: I love Tirana. It is a beautiful city. Let's say that Tirana has started to become the fashion capital for us; there are designers, brands, and various clothing styles.
Retro Kolkata: Your resemblance to the fashion icon Marilyn Monroe is well-known. How do you feel about this comparison, and in what ways, if any, has Marilyn Monroe influenced your own style or modeling approach?
Amina: Yes, we have similarities, which are often pointed out to me. Marilyn is an icon who has withstood the test of time. I believe that being compared to her has influenced my modeling.
Retro Kolkata: The fashion industry is constantly evolving. How do you stay updated and relevant in this ever-changing industry?
Amina: I think I'm lucky. Plus, self-care and dedication to the work I do, as well as the desire to do a job that I love, help me stay relevant.
Retro Kolkata: You've posed for numerous calendars and advertisements. Could you share the creative process behind these projects? What does a typical photoshoot day look like for you?
Amina: A day on the set starts like this: I wake up and follow my routine, then I go to the makeup artist to get my makeup and hair done, which can take up to 3 hours max. Then, we head to the location of the set where we start working. Depending on the number of outfits, a set can last 5 hours.
Retro Kolkata: You've achieved so much in your career already. What are your dreams and aspirations for the future? Are there any particular projects or paths you'd like to explore?
Amina: I have accomplished many things. I don't have a concrete plan, but I would love to continue modeling for a few more years, both here and abroad. I have several contracts lined up overseas, but I haven't decided yet.
Retro Kolkata: And finally, for our readers who aspire to become successful models like yourself, what advice would you give them? What do you wish you knew when you were first starting out in your career?
Amina: I started my career with small sets for magazines and fashion shows. I would tell them to pursue what they truly want. If they enjoy it as a profession, they should pursue it with passion. The beginning is challenging, like any field, but never give up on things if you love them.
In the effervescent heart of Albania's capital, Tirana, Amina Shena Dollapi blossomed into a beacon of fashion and grace. As we traverse through the tapestry of her journey, her resilience, and her vibrant perspective, we are reminded of the beauty that stems from pursuing one's passion fervently. Amina stands as a beacon, encouraging others to tread their path with ardor and perseverance. As she steps into the next chapter of her illustrious career, the world watches in anticipation, eager to witness the further blossoming of a true icon in the modeling industry.
