Leo Li uncovered
The China-born influencer is gaining attention as one of the top Instagram accounts across the fashion scene
We met the impenetrable NYC-based fashionista that has amassed a tremendous amount of followers the last few months: Leo Li. Only for Connan Press.
Connan Press: As someone with a diverse background and a passion for fashion, how do you believe your unique cultural experiences have influenced your personal style and approach to life?
Leo Li: My diverse background, being born in China, and my passion for fashion have greatly influenced my personal style and approach to life. I draw inspiration from Chinese culture’s emphasis on harmony and attention to detail, incorporating minimalist designs and vibrant colors into my wardrobe. Additionally, my multicultural upbringing has fostered a deep appreciation for diversity, allowing me to explore various cultural influences in fashion. This fusion creates a distinctive and eclectic style that celebrates different perspectives. Moreover, my background has instilled in me a strong work ethic and resilience, guiding my determination to succeed. Overall, my unique cultural experiences have shaped both my fashion choices and broader outlook on life, promoting open-mindedness and a celebration of individuality.
C.P.: You’ve attended prestigious fashion events like New York Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week. How have these experiences impacted your perspective on the fashion industry?
L.L.: Attending prestigious fashion events like New York Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week has profoundly impacted my perspective on the fashion industry. These experiences have exposed me to exceptional creativity, reinforced the industry’s fast-paced nature, highlighted the power of cross-cultural collaborations, and emphasized the importance of networking. These events have broadened my horizons, deepened my passion for fashion, and equipped me with valuable insights as I navigate this dynamic industry.
C.P.: Being both a stylist and an influencer, how do you navigate the balance between expressing your personal style and catering to the preferences and expectations of your audience?
L.L.: I navigate the balance between expressing my personal style and catering to my audience by prioritizing authenticity, actively listening to their preferences, and aiming to inspire and educate. By staying true to my creative vision while considering the needs of my audience, I foster a meaningful connection that encourages individuality and growth within the fashion community.
C.P.: You have a strong presence on social media platforms, especially IG. How do you utilize these platforms to connect with your followers and inspire them with your fashion content?
L.L.: I utilize social media platforms, especially Instagram, to authentically connect with my followers and inspire them through visually creative content. Engaging in dialogue, sharing insights and tips, and collaborating with others, I create a meaningful impact by fostering a sense of community and empowering my audience to explore their fashion journeys confidently.
C.P.: Fashion photography is one of your talents. How does your experience behind the camera inform and enhance your work as a stylist and content creator?
L.L.: My experience in fashion photography enhances my work as a stylist and content creator by providing a unique perspective, a deeper understanding of visual storytelling, attention to detail, and effective collaboration with photographers. This allows me to create visually captivating fashion content that resonates with my audience.
C.P.: Can you share a memorable fashion moment or collaboration that has significantly influenced your career trajectory?
L.L.: A memorable collaboration with a renowned fashion designer significantly influenced my career trajectory. It exposed me to their creative process, expanded my horizons, and connected me with influential figures in the industry. The experience inspired me to strive for excellence, embrace collaboration, and push boundaries in my own work. It was a turning point that solidified my commitment to the fashion industry and reminded me of its transformative power.
C.P.: The fashion industry is known for its fast-paced nature and constant evolution. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and maintain your unique sense of style in such a dynamic environment?
L.L.: To stay current in the fast-paced fashion industry while maintaining my unique style, I continuously learn from fashion publications, attend runway shows, and engage with industry professionals. I curate a network to exchange ideas and insights, embrace versatility, trust my intuition, and prioritize personal expression. By striking a balance between staying informed and being true to myself, I navigate the dynamic fashion landscape with confidence.
C.P.: You’re currently studying in New York City while pursuing a career in fashion. How do you find the balance between your academic pursuits and your passion for the fashion industry?
L.L.: I find balance between my academic pursuits and passion for the fashion industry in New York City through efficient time management, integrating studies and fashion, prioritization, flexibility, and seeking support. This approach allows me to excel academically while actively pursuing my career aspirations in fashion.
You can follow Leo Li on Instagram.
