Alejandra Mancia, A Social Media Enthusiast and Blogger in the making from New York @eclecticinthecity
What was the situation in which this photo was taken
At home after a day of interviews and shooting for my upcoming blog. At first I thought a white wall might be boring, but it’s cold outside and my apartment is too cozy!
Could you tell us something about what you do
Where do I start?! I’m a former model turned student. I recently graduated, so I’m on the grind for job hunting and finding my creative outlet. I actually started to fall in love with fashion AFTER modeling and decided to do freelance styling. I have an upcoming blog by the name Eclectic in the City. I also create social media content for a RTW and Fine Jewelry Showroom, which leads me to my real passion…I hope to gain a position as a Social Media Manager in conjunction with marketing. I’m currently looking at internships to get my foot in the door.
How did you first become interested in modelling, fashion and social media
As I previously stated, it wasn’t until I left modeling that I realized I have an appreciation for fashion . As a showroom model, I was able to see a lot of behind the scenes work, but I was also frustrated to be part of an unregulated and often discriminating industry. It wasn’t till after I quit, that I was able to let go of my personal conflicts with modelling and allowed myself to enjoy what I deep down always knew I had a fascination for. Throughout my internships, I had the ability to do both styling and content creation for various social media platforms. It was through trial and error that I found out what I enjoyed doing and wish to pursue.
What do you enjoy most about what you do
At this moment, I am enjoying breaking into the blogger world and attempting to find my voice and vision within it. It is easy to post pretty pictures of yourself, but I want to create material that my friends will enjoy reading. I have a tight circle of funny, witty, and bright people whose opinion I highly value. And as soon as I secure a Social Media internship, I believe I will greatly enjoy utilizing the skills I have, while continuing to grow. My goal is to acquire a newfound methodology in which to approach the field.
What are you working on at the moment
Last week, Members Only contacted me to be one of their influencers and that was very exciting. I spent the last day planning outfits around the merchandise and was able to shoot it today. Besides that, I need to create a proper blog. My current one is about two days old and resides on Facebook. There’s so much to learn. But go check it out at https://www.facebook.com/eclecticinthecity/ . As I said, it’s in the works. No judgement, thanks 🙂 I’m also planning on styling a few shoots in the near future with one of my good friends and favorite photographer, Manny Roman.
What are the challenges in what you do, and how do you overcome them
I believe right now my biggest challenge, when it comes to my work is finding my niche. How do I want to use my voice? What do I want to say? Over-thinking can be debilitating…I don’t want it to be a year later and still struggling to launch a blog. With styling, I have to ask myself how greatly I want it because I am one person in a sea of many, especially in the city. As far as social media, I believe my biggest challenge there is not only in trying to obtain a following, but figuring out my role in it. Social Media coordinators weren’t around ten years ago, but I believe that this is an exciting and continuously involving area to be in. Trusting myself is one way to overcome those challenges.
Could you describe your personal style
Eclectic, hence the name, Eclectic in The City. My boyfriend Jason has greatly influenced my style, where I don’t shy away from men’s clothing. My favorite outfit last week consisted of a vintage men’s shirt and pants from the 70s. I also love to wear black, so I am trying to incorporate more color in my wardrobe. Last but not least, vintage. I love vintage. Another tidbit about me, I actually work at a vintage store on the weekends. Learning about the era of pieces, construction and story behind every piece has been very rewarding.
What is your present state of mind
Excited, eager, hungry (literally and figuratively), determined, slightly impatient and a touch of anxious.
What music are you listening to at the moment
On repeat: Kanye West, Life of Pablo, Solange, A Seat at The Table. Bad and Bougee.
Which artists or designers inspire you
I love unapologetic people, especially an unapologetic woman. Till this day, Madonna is one of my favorites. She fights the idea of ageism and I think that’s terrific. Model Ashley Graham is also inspiring and has been a great advocate for personal health and body acceptance. Sarah Ziff at The Model Alliance has paved the way for the recognition of models as workers, and not just silent voices. I would love to meet her and pick her brain one day. Gigi Gorgeous is everything and I love her out of this world presence and tongue in cheek humor. Can I style her one day? The list goes on.
What is the purpose of art, in your view
To inspire and to be a reflection of our current times.
How do you spend your free time
I love to pole dance. I also like to paint, mostly acrylic and spray paint. Pop Culture. Wine, good food, good friends. And shopping. I have a slight issue, but don’t we all?
