Mode Around the Globe: Christie Xie
Mode Around The Globe: Aruba
Christie Xie
@chrisitexiee
Photography by Jessica Spohr
@jessicaspohr
Location: Radisson Blu Aruba
www.bluaruba.com
What inspired you to start your journey as an influencer and model?
I grew up always feeling like I had to fit into the Western beauty standards I saw
everywhere. A very specific idea of what “beautiful” looked like. For a long time, I didn’t realize that I was already beautiful in my own way. Because I didn’t see many faces like mine in beauty campaigns or on magazine covers, I thought that meant I wasn’t enough. As I got older, I started experimenting with makeup and skincare, not to erase my features but to celebrate them. What began as me just sharing my routines and favorite looks for fun slowly turned into something more meaningful. When people started reaching out and telling me that they finally felt represented, or that my content gave them confidence in their own skin, it hit me that this wasn’t just about beauty. It was about visibility, inclusivity, and showing others that they don’t need to change who they are to feel worthy. That’s really what inspired me to step into this space as a creator. I wanted to be the face I never got to see growing up and create content that reflects the beauty in diversity, so no one feels they have to change themselves to fit into a box that was never made for them in the first place.
How do you define your personal style?
I’d describe my style as playful yet polished. I love experimenting with bold makeup looks, but I always balance them with effortless, minimal fashion so it never feels overwhelming. For me, it’s really about striking a balance, embracing trends when they excite me, while still holding on to my own sense of identity. At the same time, I’m very carefree with my approach. I don’t overthink what I “should” wear or how I “should” look; I just follow my heart and let the day take me. Some days that means no-makeup makeup — something light and fresh that makes me feel polished but still confident in my natural skin. Other days, when I’m not feeling my most secure, makeup becomes my little boost. I always say it takes care of that missing 20% of confidence and reminds me of my power. That’s what I love about beauty and style. It’s not about hiding or transforming who I am, but about having tools to express myself, amplify my mood, and give myself permission to feel good no matter what. It’s both playful and grounding at the same time.
What’s a beauty or fashion trend you’re currently obsessed with?
Food-themed makeup and skincare always get me every single time. There’s just something so playful about it — whether it’s packaging inspired by desserts or products that smell like fruit, it makes the routine feel joyful. Just like the Pixi pH Lip Balm that gives a nice flush of color and resembles the bitten cherry look that I love.
What’s a piece of advice that changed your life?
“You don’t have to be perfect to be impactful.”
What’s something you always bring on every trip, no matter what?
A good lip balm and sunscreen are non-negotiables for me. No matter where I go, protecting my skin and keeping it hydrated is key.
What’s a moment you felt truly proud of yourself?
One of the moments I felt most proud of myself was landing my very first beauty campaign. It was with an Asian-founded brand at Sephora, and it happened to be a Disney collaboration which honestly felt like a full circle dream come true. Growing up, I never saw faces like mine on TV or in beauty campaigns, and as a kid I always wished for that representation. So to step into that role years later, with a brand that shares my cultural roots and in partnership with something as iconic as Disney, felt incredibly meaningful. It wasn’t just about the campaign itself but rather about fulfilling a dream I didn’t even know was possible when I was younger. Another pinch-me moment was seeing myself on a Times Square billboard. As a New Yorker, that’s something you walk past a million times and think of as untouchable or something reserved for real stars. To see my face up there was surreal, and it made me realize how far I’ve come by staying authentic and carving out my own path in this industry. Definitely one for the books.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of career advice I’ve ever received is to stay true to yourself. It’s so It’s so
easy in this industry to get swept up in trends, numbers, or the pressure to fit a certain mold, but I’ve learned that authenticity is what really carries you. I always remind myself of how I got here — all the hard work, the moments of doubt, and the struggles that shaped me. Remembering that journey keeps me grounded, and it reminds me never to forget where I came from. That perspective gives me strength and makes every milestone even more meaningful.
How do you stay grounded in such a fast-paced industry?
I don’t. Honestly, sometimes I feel like I’m just floating on air with how fast everything is moving, just hopping from one event or project to the next without really pausing. For a long time, I thought that was just the way this industry works — constant motion, constant hustle. But one thing I’ve learned this past year, after running at full speed for the last few, is that it’s okay to slow down It’s okay to take breaks, to breathe, and to give myself the space to process everything I’ve accomplished. Pausing doesn’t mean losing momentum, it means giving myself the energy to keep going and show up even stronger.
What’s a moment in your career that made you stop and think, 'Wow, this is real'?
Every single day, I wake up and I’m still in shock that this is my life. For so long, I worked in healthcare — a path I chose to fulfill my mother’s dream, not necessarily my own. And while I was grateful for that chapter, I never imagined I’d get the chance to live out my own passion. To be here now, creating in the beauty space, collaborating with brands I once only admired from afar, feels surreal. When people talk about chasing the American dream, I think about my own story and realize that in many ways, I’ve achieved mine. I get to live a life that reflects who I am, not just who I thought I was supposed to be. With that, this is something I never take for granted, and I thank God every day for opening those doors for me.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself through your career?
I was in my early 20s when I first started, and I was going through so much self-discovery that I had nothing to lose. That fearlessness really pushed me forward. I never second-guessed myself, I just went for it, and I think that energy was so important in breaking into this industry. Now, as I’ve grown, I realized I am learning to soften up — lean into my feminine side, and embrace being more vulnerable. That shift has taught me that strength doesn’t always have to be loud or bold; sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and tender. That balance between my fearless beginnings and my softer present is something I’m still learning, but I think it’s what makes me who I am today.
What was your favorite part of Modeliste’s Aruba Getaway?
Connecting with other creatives in such a beautiful place. The energy was so inspiring, and it reminded me how much community fuels creativity. I especially loved meeting new girls on trips like this, sharing beauty tips, content ideas, and just connecting on a deeper level — truly creating lifelong friends in the midst of it all.
What did you love most about your stay at the Radisson Blu Aruba?
It was aesthetic and pleasing to the eyes at every corner. It made capturing content feel so effortless. But beyond that, it was actually my first time traveling alone, and I felt completely safe the entire time, which meant so much to me. The location was also perfect — everything was within walking distance, from entertainment to the beach — so it felt both convenient and relaxing, like the best of both worlds.
What do you love most about Modeliste Magazine?
I love how Modeliste celebrates individuality while staying aspirational. It’s not just about trends, it’s about showcasing voices, perspectives, and stories from around the world. It feels like home — a place where I belong.
