With background in the world of fashion and modelling, Idalia has worked with everyone from Caroline Vreeland to Julia Restoin-Roitfeld and Nicky Hilton. Today she specialises in content creation, brand deals and online communication.

What took you to London?

Peter Pan was my favourite movie, and I always claimed that one day I will live in ‘that city’. Mind you, I had no idea where it was in the world, but I recognised the magic in it. As I grew older, personal and professional opportunities kept bringing me back and thus I began to love it as an adult.

Have you always been interested in style?

I believe so. My mom has always been very fashionable so at a young age I was always into the trends and learning by example. Fashion, for me, has always been a form of self-expression so it’s really fun looking back and seeing each chapter of my ‘fashion life’ and seeing how that perspective has evolved as I’ve also evolved as a person.

How did your consultancy business come along?

After almost a decade of working in corporate America, I knew there had to be more to this industry than just booking jobs. I had to find the soul of what this industry is all about, and that’s what I set out to do with Idalia Inc. When I strategise with brands and influencers, I’m continually digging for the bigger picture. I’m not out to create a digital campaign that is void of any human communication. I’m not out to hoard information so only a few are given the opportunity to truly succeed.

What’s it like being an entrepreneur/business owner abroad?

Oh it’s great! As a first-generation American, my family really instilled in me the ‘American Dream’ and I’m so grateful to the States for allowing me the opportunity not only to dream, but to accomplish my dreams. Taking that hustle abroad really has been incredible. Not only do I have in me that ambitious spirit, but I also get to learn from other cultures as well. It’s like taking the best of both worlds. What an honour!

Can you pinpoint key turning points in your life?

I moved to New York City at the age of 30 to become the Director of Talent at NEXT. That really changed my whole perspective of not only the fashion industry – we were representing the best of the best of the time like Chiara Ferragni, Danielle Bernstein, Shea Marie – but of life in general. I remember always thinking: “If I can make it here, I can make it anywhere”. There is nothing like New York City.

Any words of wisdom / life motto?

YOLO! It sounds silly but that’s really what I tell myself daily. Sometimes when I’m feeling down on myself, I get a sharpie and I write on my hand. Like super big. We only live once, and it’s our duty as human-beings to live that to the full. To leave the earth a better place than how we found it. And to bring happiness to those who surround us. After all, You Only Live Once!

Define your own personal style?

Ever-evolving.

“Style is a unique expression of self through fashion.”

Any tips on achieving your look / style?

I can frankly say I really don’t try too hard when it comes to ‘my style’ – so maybe that’s the tip: Don’t try so hard. A good, winged eyeliner never fails, and the bouncier the hair, the better.

Any secret places to recommend for the stylish?

One of my insider tips in London is to get an Ice Lift Facial from Sunday Riley at Hershesons. Trust me, this will leave your skin glowing for days.

Best shopping places? Places to people watch? Places to be inspired?

I love the classics like Selfridges and Liberty. Some mornings, I just jog on over and spend hours looking at the latest styles by my favourite designers. It’s therapy / research for me. I also love that Anine Bing has a store here.

For people watching, you can’t get better than SoHo. My best friend and I love sitting outdoors with an Aperol Spritz. One of the things that makes London so special is that everyone has a unique style to them, and they’re unapologetic about it. It’s so refreshing and I love seeing it all.

I feel most inspired at the park, especially Kensington Gardens which is close to my flat. It’s truly a blessing being able to escape to nature in the middle of a big city.

Best/worse thing about being an expat?

Best thing is that I’ll always carry that American ‘you-can-do-whatever-you-set-your-mind-to’ spirit. Worse thing is that I can’t teleport myself to the USA. Plane trips are long and since the pandemic, airports have become a bit of a nightmare.

Expat or a local?

Both. I’m like Hannah Montana – best of both worlds.