Mode Around The Globe: Dorothy Mannine

Mode Around The Globe: Aruba
Dorothy Mannine
@dorothymannine

Photography by Aubrie Danae
@aubriedanaee

Location: Radisson Blu Aruba
www.bluaruba.com

You’ve had such an incredible journey so far — what’s one defining moment that shaped who you are today?
Honestly, it’s hard to pick just one. I feel most defined by a series of micro-moments that avalanched into huge changes. For example, when I was going through a rough heartbreak, I decided to dye my hair red — and that hair color ended up becoming my signature online and my primary source of income. So much of my success has come from unexpected choices that ultimately changed my life.

Fans love your confidence and presence. What’s something about your personality people may not know but you wish they did?
I think a lot of people are surprised by how silly I am when they meet me in person. Online, I come across as more intense and strong, but in real life I’m mostly just a goofy goober.

What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned in the past year, both personally and professionally?
Let energy vampires go. The people in your life who drag you down, exhaust you, belittle you, and derail you from flourishing as yourself — let. them. go. Watch how your personal and professional life changes for the better once you cut off dead weight.

You’re constantly evolving and reinventing yourself. What inspires your creativity and drive the most right now?
The dreams I have for myself and my life inspire me every single moment. I’m always seeking ways to become the version of myself that turns every dream into a reality. While I truly enjoy the journey and its unfolding, the thrill of what’s next always excites me.

When you think about your dream life, where do you see yourself in the next five years?
Without going into specifics — since I tend to be pretty private about my goals — I’ll just say this: prepare to be sick of seeing me everywhere. Laughs.

What’s one project or passion you’re currently working on that you’re most excited for fans to see?
I’m currently working on a calendar! It’s a collection of Old Hollywood–style shoots done on film, with each month featuring a totally different vibe. It’s been so exciting to shoot, and I can’t wait to release it.

Your travel schedule is incredible — what destination has inspired you the most recently, and why?
South Africa was truly magical. As an animal lover, nothing compares to being face-to-face with some of the most enchanting animals on Earth. It was such a powerful reminder of the beauty found in nature.

What does a perfect, slow, restful day look like for you?
Lots of tea by the fireplace, cozy cuddles with my cats, maybe some yoga or reading — and absolutely nothing on my agenda.

Fashion-wise, how would you describe your style in three words?
Bold, playful, and intentional.

What’s one beauty or self-care ritual you never skip, no matter how busy life gets?
My skincare, hair, and makeup routine — always. No matter what. Look good, feel good.

Fans love your authenticity. How do you stay grounded amidst such a fast-paced career?
Not being myself just isn’t fun to me. Staying grounded feels easy because anything else doesn’t feel right.

What’s a misconception people have about you, and what’s the truth?
Honestly, I think people have a pretty accurate idea of who I am — especially those who’ve followed me for a while. Only enjoying being myself has naturally led to very few misconceptions.

What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self?
I know everyone says, “It gets better,” but trust me — it truly gets better and better every single year.

You’ve become such an inspiration to many. Who inspires you the most?
This might sound wild, but all the different versions of me inspire me. I think about six-year-old me and how she wanted to express herself, and eighty-year-old me and how she would’ve wanted to have lived.

What’s your current go-to outfit when you want to feel confident and empowered?
Honestly, my entire wardrobe is curated to make me feel confident and empowered. But if I had to choose one thing — a giant fur coat and stilettos.

If you could only bring three items in your handbag for the day, what would they be?
My lip liner, my lipstick, and a mirror to reapply them.

What’s something fans would be totally surprised to learn about you?
Most people are shocked to learn that I was a bona fide nerd as a kid. I was a band geek who played four instruments, started playing World of Warcraft at nine (and still do), and was probably the goofiest, most awkward kid you could imagine.

What’s a personal mantra or quote you live by?
 “Leap and the net will appear.”

What did you love most about your stay at the Radisson Blu Aruba?
What’s not to love? The delicious food (I became a regular at their café), the gorgeous pools, the room views, the cozy bed, and the amazing activities on the property. Plus, the best piña colada I’ve ever had was from their rooftop bar.

What exciting projects or career moments do you have coming up that you’d love to share?
I actually just launched my newsletter! Every Tuesday at 10 a.m., I send one out covering everything from must-have hair products to life revelations and everything in between. It’s been such a fun way to express myself off-camera and connect more deeply with my audience. You can find it linked in my bio!