Mode Around the Globe: Danielle Shanes
Danielle Shanes
@shestyledwhat
Photography by Samantha Spence @samspensework
Videography by Tyler Gurd @tylergurdfilm
Location: Nikki Beach Koh Samui
www.nikkibeach.com
@nikkibeachkohsamui
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Feminine, warm, creative.
What inspired you to start creating content or working in the influencer space?
I've always loved fashion and beauty, but in 2017 I was living in a small college town where it felt like I had no outlet for it. When I discovered fashion blogs around that time, it was such a lightbulb moment realizing there was a space where I could share my style and creativity (and my overflowing closet). My goal has always been to celebrate femininity and inspire women to add more joy, beauty, and magic to their everyday lives.
What does a “perfect day” look like for you?
The perfect day for me is at the airport about to board a plane for a trip I’m so excited about—or at home in San Diego watching a pink sunset at the beach.
What’s something your followers might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m actually a really spiritual person, and I’m currently taking an astrology course.
What’s been your proudest moment so far, personally or professionally?
Building a business and community from the ground up. More than anything, though, I’m proud of the resilience it took to get here. Looking back at my early content, there was so much uncertainty and fear around putting myself out there and leaving my job without knowing where it would lead. I’m proud that I kept showing up through the unknown—and here we are.
How do you usually start your mornings?
I’m such a morning person. I’ll always wake up an hour earlier than I need to just to enjoy a slow morning. My routine is pretty simple: coffee immediately, gratitude, and usually Pilates.
What’s your go-to confidence boost when you’re feeling off?
If I need a confidence boost, it’s usually a sign that I’ve been scrolling and comparing too much. I’ll go touch grass—literally. An outdoor walk and reconnecting with things or people that make me feel grounded always helps.
Who or what inspires you the most right now?
I’m endlessly inspired by women who have built something from the ground up. Whenever I need motivation, I’ll listen to a podcast featuring a female founder and hear her story. I love learning about the journey behind their success and the lessons they’ve picked up along the way. My favorites are Second Life and The Dream Bigger Podcast.
What’s one goal you’re currently working toward?
Creating more and consuming less.
How would you describe your personal style in three words?
Feminine, elevated, fun.
What’s your favorite way to unwind or reset?
A sunset walk, always.
What’s a travel destination that has had the biggest impact on you and why?
The destinations I’m most drawn to are the ones that feel completely different from my everyday life. I love experiencing other cultures and seeing different ways of living because it’s one of the best ways to gain perspective and grow as a person. One destination that really impacted me was the desert in Morocco. It was unlike anything I’d ever experienced before and is a trip I’ll never forget.
What do you look for in friendships or the people you surround yourself with?
I look for people who are warm, who genuinely love their lives, who inspire me, and who lift up others.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned recently that stuck with you?
Growth lives outside of your comfort zone. So many of the opportunities that have changed my life started with me feeling scared or uncomfortable. Now, when I feel those things, I try to see them as signs that I’m about to grow.
What’s your current favorite song, show, or obsession?
It’s a Zara Larsson summer, and for shows, Love Island, of course.
What does success mean to you right now in this season of life?
Having the freedom to create and travel. That means everything to me.
What’s something you’re still learning about yourself?
I’m still learning that softness isn’t the opposite of strength. Growing up, I thought I needed to be less sensitive and less feminine to be taken seriously. The more I grow, the more I realize that my softness, intuition, creativity, and femininity aren’t qualities I need to downplay—they’re actually some of my greatest strengths.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Honestly, I don’t think I would tell my younger self anything. I’ve learned so much through every experience and mistake, and I’m grateful for where I am because of it. If I had to say something, though, it would be: don’t listen to people who say you daydream too much. Keep being playful, keep your creativity, and definitely don’t listen to the people who tell you to stop wearing pink every day—because one day, it’s going to become your career.
What’s next for you? Anything you’re especially excited about?
I’m excited to continue traveling, creating, and evolving. For some reason, this year so many fun new travel opportunities keep falling into my lap. I’m having the best time with girls’ trips, new experiences, and sharing it all with my community. I can’t wait to see where the rest of the year takes me.
What did you love most about your stay at Nikki Beach Koh Samui, Thailand?
Honestly, everything. Thailand had been on my bucket list for so long, and it exceeded every expectation. The excursions were incredible—from the boat day and stunning islands to meeting elephants for the first time. Waking up in a beautiful villa, taking a few steps outside to watch the sunrise on the beach, enjoying incredible breakfast spreads each morning, and experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the staff—it was all unforgettable. I usually love returning home to my routine after a week of travel, but this was one of those rare stays that you never want to end.
