Nikki Phillips is a well-known face on the Australian modelling circuit. After appearing as the face of ACP's 30 Days of Fashion from 2008 to 2010, Phillips has been booked up with various TV appearances and modelling campaigns. And when she's not busy posing for the camera, she's often found working on her blog Styled by Phillips. Here, bd talks to the model about how she got started in blogging, how the blogging world has affected her modelling career, and her new role as a social commentator for and Olay.
Why did you decide to start your blog Styled by Phillips?
I started the blog back in 2009 when I was working closely with ACP’s 30 days of Fashion and beauty. It was started as an almost online diary of what I was up to, it gave my readers a behind the scenes and intimate view of shoots and my daily events.
How did you get started in style blogging?
It happened very naturally. The blog still holds a diary appeal, but I was constantly asked what I was wearing and for styling tips. I pride my blog on being very personal and real, which is why I love to mix high end labels with low end labels, as that’s what my wardrobe is all about – realistic dressing.
Has blogging changed since you first started?
Absolutely. My blog now comes very naturally to me – it fits in with my day to day life. For example, I write about my day’s appointments or shoot behind the scenes from current work I’m doing and during the day I shoot my outfit to show what I wear. At the beginning I would write about anything, it’s always had a strong fashion backbone but now it has rhythm and consistency.
Do you feel that more brands are now wanting to collaborate with you due to being a style blogger than when you were only modelling?
The blogging world has only really evolved in the past few years - brands are developing more of a understanding into blogs and realising the benefits of collaborating and advertising with bloggers. Styled by Phillips went full time half way through 2012 and I think after it being around for so long and with investing so much time and hard work into it, brands became aware and interested in being a part.
How do most brand collaborations come about?
I’m generally contacted direct through my blog or through my manager and from there I research into the brand and see if it fits my style and take it from there.
Why did you decide to be a social commentator for Gillette Venus & Olay?
Venus & Olay have a long history of working with beautiful women from around the world such as Whitney Port and Jennifer Lopez. I’ve always been a Venus fan, so when I was approached to work with the team on the new Venus & Olay SugarBerry razor, I was excited to get involved.
What is involved with your role of a social commentator for Gillette Venus & Olay?
To celebrate the launch of the Venus & Olay SugarBerry razor, I’ve been working with the team to reveal which celebrities have the most perfect pins. It’s great to be involved with the brand once again following my hosting duties during the Venus Embrace Closest Stiletto Relay [a 4x100m relay race run in stilettos sponsored by Venus that raised money for breast cancer].
Who do you think has the best legs in the business?
Jennifer Aniston! At 44, she has one of the hottest bodies on the planet. No matter what she wears, her legs always look great.
How do you achieve smooth legs?
The first step would be to make sure you are using a really good razor like the Venus & Olay SugarBerry. To begin, I would start by exfoliating my skin to allow it to soften. I would then start at the ankles and shave up the leg using short strokes, shaving against the grain with a little pressure for an ‘ouch-free’ smooth shave.
What are your top tips for looking after your body inside and outside in the warmer months?
I am an advocate of the saying you are what you eat” – so changing up your everyday routine and including more leafy greens and fresh summer fruits can make a great difference to how you look and feel. Remaining hydrated and drinking lots of water is vital, it does wonders for your skin. Another great tip is to take your workout into the great outdoors to enjoy the warmer weather – whether for yoga or strength training.
What beauty products would we find in your holiday bag?
When it comes to my beauty routine I’m quite minimal and believe less is more. A good moisturiser, make-up wipe and sunscreen is all I need.