Mode Around the Globe: Kaye Bassey
Photographed by
MONICA YELVINGTON
Videography by
GABE RODRIGUEZ
Wardrobe by
PRIMARK
www.primark.com
Kaye Bassey
@kayebassey
How did you begin your career as an influencer?
I began my career as an influencer while I was studying Business in university. My love for fashion and desire to work in that field started at around 6 years old when I would watch Style by Elsa Klensch. Knowing that I always wanted to work in fashion. While I was studying business, I decided to start a fashion & beauty blog (www.kayebassey.com) to inspire individuals from all walks of life to live as the best version of themselves. This kept me inspired and was such a great creative outlet. As time went on, something that was once a fun hobby turned into what it is today.
What can people expect to see when following you on social media?
A lot of fashion and beauty, but ultimately, my goal that I am trying to share through social media is to inspire individuals from all walks of life to live and become the best version of themselves.
A highlight and a goal you hope to accomplish in your career?
A highlight in my career would be the times that I was featured on billboards in Times Square- it’s always such a surreal and special moment to me. So grateful! Some goals include working more with brands that my 6 year old self would be so ecstatic over. More brands in the luxury space. Other goals include continuing more philanthropic efforts and work.
Top 3 favorite fashion brands?
There are so many but I will share some of the brands that have been very inspirational to me recently- Jacquemus, Chanel and Staud.
3 beauty products you cannot live without?
A great sunscreen, Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen or ILIA Beauty, has one that I really like right now – the C Beyond Triple Serum). A really good hydrating lip balm. I am a sucker for a good hydrating serum – one of my all time favorites, Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair.
What tips & tricks can you extend to someone aspiring to have a career like your own?
Be yourself and find the things that you are most passionate about. Authenticity is one of the major things that helps you get started and keeps you going for the long run. Be consistent, enjoy the process, build relationships, network and for sure show lots of gratitude.
What’s something you’re looking forward to this summer?
Looking forward to spending more time in my summer wardrobe, hanging with loved ones outside and even more traveling.
Go-to outfit for a summer lunch with the girls?
It depends on how I am feeling – but it is usually a nice pair of tailored pants, really into Aritzia pieces or a skirt with a top. Usually neutral colors. Or a dress.
What’s something our Modeliste readers would be surprised to learn about you?
My diverse upbringing. The term “third culture kid” describes my upbringing the most. I was born in Canada to Nigerian parents, raised in Czech Republic and Germany. My first time ever coming to America was actually for university.
Who/What inspires you?
Travel is inspirational to me. I feel recharged and refreshed mentally whenever I get to explore other corners of the world. It is really such a beautiful experience. It is always fascinating to talk and connect with locals – very exciting to experience life through someone else’s lenses. Being around friends, family and loved ones. Also, reading and learning more helps inspire me from within.
At what point did you turn your social media platform into a career? Are there any other careers you’d like to explore in the future?
I turned it into a career a few years ago. Since I studied business in university, I actually put my education to use for a few years working in Medical Devices. It was such a great experience for me and I did enjoy working in the field. Right now, I love content creation and plan to continue to grow and expand with future opportunities within the industry.
What’s your dream collaboration?
I feel so fortunate to be able to work with so many brands that I love, respect and wholeheartedly trust. It’s so hard to pick just one, I have a list of dream brands. But would definitely love to continue to grow in luxury.
How do you hope to influence people through your social media platforms?
I would love to influence and inspire people to be the first version of themselves, take care of themselves from the inside out, and live more fulfilling lives.
Are you working on any exciting projects you can share?
Yes, I am working on some exciting projects! I can’t wait to share but can’t share – just not yet.
You have traveled and grown up all over the world, what’s your favorite place and why?
I can’t decide! Never have been able to pick just one. Berlin will always be a city that I hold closely to my heart. I formed such amazing friendships that have lasted for so many years and have so many amazing memories.
You have the glowiest skin, please share your everyday beauty routine. What products have you used that have made a big difference?
My philosophy for my skincare is, less is more and quality over quantity. I try to select brands that really take pride in utilizing premium ingredients to create the products.
Some of my staples that I love are Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair, Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask and Lancome really has such amazing skin care that I incorporate into my routine everyday. Some of my favorites are the Renergie HCF Triple Serum and Advanced Genifique Radiance Boosting Face Serum.
Other tips that do not include products are to drink lots of water and get enough sleep every single night. Super important for your skin but also mind and body.
What would you like to say to your fans?
I love you! Seriously, without the support of such a wonderful community, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. I am so grateful, appreciative – thank you so much!
