In recent years, the fashion and digital influencer industry has experienced remarkable growth. With the rise of social media, models and influencers have become pivotal in showcasing brands and products. They not only highlight the latest trends but also inspire millions of followers with their unique styles and authenticity.
WM MAG – What was the moment you decided to pursue a career as a model and influencer?
Angela Miller Kumar – I modeled in my teens and early twenties but gave up my career to raise a family, a decision for which I have no regrets. At 57, the more recent iteration of my career has be borne of wanting to pursue my own interests again, now that my children have left the nest. I believe it’s never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue your dreams.
WM MAG – How do you keep your style always so current and relevant?
Angela Miller Kumar – Authenticity is always current and relevant! I’ve never been one to follow trends. My style is my own with an aesthetic that blends high and low, vintage and new, current and classic, a little bit of this and a dash of that- never a rule or recipe.
WM MAG – What are your favorite fashion brands at the moment?
Angela Miller Kumar – I absolutely adore Alice + Olivia by Stacey Bendet. Their pieces are unique, glamorous, quirky and luxurious- all the elements I love! And the sizing is very consistent, which makes ordering online easy and saves me tons of time. I’m also a big fan of Free People. I can always find some wonderfully bohemian chic pieces that fit my style perfectly. I’m a Florida girl and spend a lot of time in swimsuits, so I have to include my favorite swimwear brands VIX PaulaHermanny, Elizabeth Hurley Beach and PQ Swim
WM MAG – Do you have any advice for those starting a modeling career?
Angela Miller Kumar – Don’t underestimate the work ethic required and get really comfortable with the word NO, but don’t take it personally. It’s the nature of the beast. Sometimes the model and campaign are not aligned, but that is no reflection on the model’s value or talent. Keep going, sell your unique qualities and you will find your best work.
WM MAG – What has been the most challenging advertising campaign you have done?
Angela Miller Kumar – They are all challenging on some level. That is the part and parcel of the creative process. However, I suppose at my age, getting comfortable working on lingerie and swimsuit campaigns was more challenging in the beginning. As you can see though, now I love it! I’ve grown very comfortable in my skin and proud of how confident I’ve become. Plus, it keeps me accountable and is a good example for my college age daughter as she becomes a woman.
WM MAG – How do you balance your personal life with your professional career?
Angela Miller Kumar – As I mentioned earlier, I paused my career to focus on raising my children. Now that they are grown, I have the time to focus on my professional career without conflict. Being a content creator/influencer also gives me a lot of flexibility within my schedule, and that’s a big plus.
WM MAG – What are your future plans in fashion and social media?
Angela Miller Kumar – Only to conquer both worlds, of course! Seriously though, I approach both with enthusiasm but not expectations. I’m open and curious to see where this leads, but I am actively pursuing other avenues and interests as well.
WM MAG – Do you have any special projects that you are excited to launch?
Angela Miller Kumar – I do indeed! I’ve decided to go back to school to pursue another degree; I’ve started writing poetry and find that very fulfilling; I am working on some design projects that I am excited about, and am working on a website and YouTube channel. I also hope to show that despite the plethora of AI generated models and images, there will always be a need, if not a greater one, for real humans, their faces and bodies with their unique characteristics and their one-of-a-kind spirits.
WM MAG – How do you handle criticism and negative comments on social media?
Angela Miller Kumar – This is a valid question, but interestingly and gratefully, I have not yet, to date received any. There have been two that I recall, that weren’t negative but weren’t entirely positive. With those, I tried to open up a conversation, but I find that negative comments in general have more to do with the person saying or posting them than they do with the one receiving them. It’s best to briefly consider that point of view to see if there is anything valid, and then move on with humility, confidence and a smile.
WM MAG – What is your biggest dream or goal as a model and influencer?
Angela Miller Kumar – Encouraging people over fifty to not give up on their dreams, to live life with curiosity and vitality and to take care of their bodies, minds and spirits so they can do so is my hope. Being featured in Sports Illustrated Swim would also be a nice dream and an honor, but if what I share in my career brings people a little joy and uplifts them or inspires them, then that is a dream that is already coming true.
Journalism VERVE
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