Living in Queenstown, blogger and stylist Samantha has some visually stunning backdrops to play with when shooting content for her Instagram, where she shares her outfits and favourite beauty products. We caught up with Samantha to chat about her love of fashion and beauty, not forgetting to grab a list of her everyday beauty essentials.
What inspired you to start blogging?
I’ve always been a creative and visual person. I was a top art & design scholar at high school and went on to excel in a Degree in Communications, so the combination of creative communication has always been a natural gift and passion.
I actually started a fashion and beauty blog when I was 19 called “Sammie Styles” (lol I cringe now) but that love for sharing style and beauty has always been there. I deleted the blog after six months out of fear of failure, something I wish I kept pushing now looking back, but in the same breath I took the time to grow my skillset and style, and now I feel more settled, inspired and ready to share.
The biggest trigger for launching my Instagram blog in 2017 was moving to Queenstown from Auckland. Moving from the big smoke to this stunning and serene setting gave me breathing space and a burst of creative energy. Also, not knowing a single person gave me lots of extra time outside of work to create, photograph and style. My new hometown has been my biggest source of inspiration. Incorporating the beautiful terrain with my love for fashion and beauty has been fun and the best creative outlet.
Why is Instagram your medium of choice?
I chose Instagram as my first channel purely because of the visual element. It’s kind of like my mood-board. A place where I can create and connect. Also, a beautiful by-product of starting my page has been making new friends, so I’m thankful for the gram!
What do you value more – skincare or makeup?
As I get older, skincare is definitely more valuable to me. I have learnt that good skin means your make-up will sit and look much better. I’ve always loved experimenting with make-up and different looks though. I love the way make-up can make you feel - a red lip or winged liner makes me feel fierce, but I’m also valuing the feeling of loving the skin I’m in – an ongoing journey.
What is your everyday makeup look and the products you use to achieve it?
A natural but defined everyday look is what I love. I enjoy letting my skin shine through, so on a normal day I’ll wear a little concealer, bronzer, mascara, brow product and some form of lip product – usually a balm or neutral colour, oh and of course highlighter – I’m obsessed with highlighter!
Samantha's favourite everyday products
Concealer: Maybelline Master Conceal under my eyes
Bronzer: Tom Ford Soleil Bronzing Powder
Mascara: Lately I’ve been wearing a Maybelline mascara I picked up from the supermarket – the Colossal Volum’ Express
Brows: Ka-BROW! by Benefit for definition (obsessed)
Highlighter: Mecca Cosmetica Enlightened Lit From Within Illuminating Balm, the classic MAC Soft and Gentle Highlighter, or the YSL Touche Éclat Complexion Highlighter.
Lips: Mecca Cosmetica Original Lip De-luscious with SPF25, MAC Cremesheen in ‘Pure Zen’, or Revlon Matte Dare to Be Nude Lipstick
If I am wearing a little more make-up, my go to foundation is the Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place SPF10 or the NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation. For eyeshadow I’m loving the Too Faced Sweet Peach palette.
Along with beauty, you love posting your outfits. How would you describe your style?
I love fashion! I’d describe my everyday style as feminine, chic, classic. The awesome thing about style is being able to experiment and dress to your mood. There are days I’m a little more grunge with my ripped jeans and band tee, and then there are days I’m wearing a floral dress and heels. I love a classic trench coat with jeans and sneakers but experimenting is the best part of it. I will always think about how the outfit works together with accessories and I love mixing high-end with low cost pieces. I’ve also come to love a faux fur coat since living in Queenstown – channelling my inner snow queen.
What do you love about living in Queenstown?
What do I not love about it?! It really is a slice of heaven and I feel incredibly blessed everyday living here. Sure, it is a slower pace compared to the bigger cities I’m used to but it has this unique and captivating charm about it. I don’t ever want to take it for granted. The beauty and serenity of Queenstown has been therapy for my soul and is a constant source of inspiration.
Get in touch with Samantha here.
