Along with our tribe of Bonds Originals' Aussie originators, is this pocket rocket of an influencer. Rachel Tee Tyler has turned a love of style and fashion into an Instagram juggernaut. The Sydney blogger and editor knows a thing or two about how to mix designer labels with high street fashion to create a unique style all of her own. We chatted to Rachel about what she loves most about being an influencer and what some of the biggest misconceptions are. 

What do you love most about what you do?

I feel so blessed to be in a position where I can inspire young people, simply by being myself. I’m most proud of the fact that I can represent women of colour in the media, something that I did not get to see a lot of growing up. It’s amazing to hear from young girls, emailing me just to say I give them the confidence to feel beautiful in their skin, that’s definitely the best part.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Honestly, it’s never the same! It can be as quiet as emails and editing photos, to photo shoots, running between meetings or travelling for events.

What’s been your proudest achievement to date so far and why?

Being chosen as a Bonds ambassador is a big one! Being able to represent such an iconic Australian brand in such a diverse campaign is an absolute dream. Bonds is a brand that I’ve worn all my life; I’m so excited to be part of the Bonds family to launch their new range of sweats.

Who has been your biggest inspiration and why?

My mum is my number one inspiration. I don’t know anyone with more compassion, who’s is more selfless and more hard-working than Mum!

What does originality mean to you?

Originality for me is synonymous with authenticity. As much as you want to be ahead of the curve and trend-setting, the best way to truly be original is to be yourself. There’s no-one else like you.

Do you have a go-to style or look?

I don’t, really. I feel like I outgrow my own tastes so quickly, haha! If I’m not evolving stylistically, I’m not happy. In terms of an easy outfit that I’ll never tire of, definitely a matching co-ord set.

What are your favourite Originals pieces?

Speaking of matching (haha!) the mustard trackie and pullover set is my favourite. Such a bold 90s colour, I love!

What five things can you not live without?

My partner, my friends, my parents,  and my skincare and water.

What advice do you have for someone trying to break into your industry?

Stay authentic and be open and honest with your audience. You’ll attract the people and the companies that love you for being you. It’s an industry that can, unfortunately, be diluted with disingenuity and facade, and that’s just not sustainable. For career longevity and relevancy, you have to be true to who you really are. Also, be willing to work hard! It’s not a dream life, you have to be willing to take jobs on the weekends, shoot after work when you’re exhausted and run to castings and meetings during lunch breaks. It takes time to build up enough work to go full-time, so you’ll often have to juggle a lot to make it work.

What’s on the agenda for 2018?

So much! I’d love to start a YouTube channel, that’s a small goal, but probably my biggest move this year is that I will be spending half my time in LA to grow my presence in America. Wish me luck!

What is the biggest misconception you hear about being an influencer/blogger?

I think people underestimate how much work goes into content creation, networking and building your platform. I guess on the surface it seems like an easy life where everything is always pleasant and pretty, but there’s a lot of hard work that goes on behind-the-scenes. Definitely more than just taking pretty pictures.

What secret style or shopping tip do you swear by?

Invest in key pieces ahead of fast fashion. I’m talking timeless silhouettes, unique outerwear and quality shoes and bags. These are all things you always mix and match, no matter what’s on-trend at the moment, and keep you chic and stylish. They may cost you more upfront, but they’ll outlast any fad.
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