Meet Kimberly Anthony: The Parisian Streetwear Goddess You Want On Your Insta Feed

No one can dispute the power of styling. In a visually inclined world, style has become pivotal to the launch of celebrity careers and the success of just about anything that can be seen on a screen—whether it’s a multi-million dollar grossing film, campaign, music video or our latest Insta post.

And if styling is a power, Kimberly Anthony must be a sorceress. A fashion merchandiser by day and an Instagram influencer by night, Anthony has gained a reputation for having one of the dopest styles in the business. From her fresh sneaks to her killer locks, Anthony continuously serves up some major fashion inspo to her followers. We caught up with the Parisian influencer to discuss her journey into the world of fashion, her future goals and what hairstyle she’ll be rocking next.

Looking back on your life, can you remember what first sparked your interest in fashion?  

It first started when I was a kid. My mom always bought me stuff I didn't like. Even as a child, I was in such a hurry to make my own decisions about what I wanted to wear. I wanted to have the liberty of expressing myself through my fashion rather than wearing something my mom chose. 

How has living in Paris impacted your personal aesthetic and the way you view the fashion world?

Paris is really a creative and connecting place. Here, every day you find, see, hear and taste something that can change your vision of life. The people I meet each day and the opportunities I have to discover new places, shops and artists directly impact the way I view fashion. 

Today, you have amassed a significant following on Instgram of people who dig your style (us included!). That being said, do you feel a lot of pressure to post “like-able” content? 

Hahahaha, I first started Instagram to express myself and the way I view things. I wanted to show that you don't have to spend a lot of money to have style. From there, people just started to like the vibes and the world I had created online. So, I don't feel any kind of pressure about posting what I want. Be it "like-able" or not, I just want the picture I share to be good enough for myself.

At some point in our lives, we’ve all made some cringe-worthy fashion choices. Is there an outfit that still makes you squirm when you see a photo of it? 

I don't have any photo, but I remember one day when I was 15, I wore some kind of fake, white, leather boots. Back in the day, I was feeling sooo cool with them but I wasn't... at a-l-l ! Lol!

And what outfit makes you feel the most confident? 

When I wear an all black outfit. Think: high waist pants that are wide at the top and tapered towards the bottom, a trench coat and some red lipstick... I'm totally feeling myself. 

What’s the one item you’d consider your wardrobe’s MVP? 

It's not one specific item, more a certain type of item. I would definitely say my coat collection. 

If you could only wear one label for the rest of your life, which would you choose? Why? 

I would say simply ASOS White because it perfectly fits my style. The clothes' shapes, colors and patterns are great, and the quality is good. Overall, their collections are always astonishing! :) 

When it comes to your locks, you’re a Kylie Jenner-esque hair chameleon, always changing up the look. We’ve seen you blue, red, and purple. Long, short and with braids. What’s next? 

Haha, I definitely love to be different all the time! I recently did pink hair. I don't know what will be my next move yet, actually... Maybe some boxer braids, with a certain color in it like green! 

You spend a lot front of the camera showing off your dope ‘fits and ‘dos. Have you ever considered pursuing modeling seriously? 

Not really. I take photos to show my style and my passion. But I would never say never. You never know where life takes you. 

Let’s switch gears and talk about your work off of Instgram. The world of visual merchandising can be a pretty competitive, especially in a fashion capital like Paris. How did you break into the industry? 

I worked hard on this, but actually, my reputation as an influencer helped me break into it. 

Do you feel like your work in visual merchandising is a reflection of your personal style? Or is it something different altogether? 

It's both. You have to adapt your style to someone else's requirements to effectively represent a brand. But your personal skills and style help you to do this. 

What/who do you think most inspires your work? 

I would say the Japanese fashion industry because I currently work for a Japanese company. The Japense way of life, way of wearing clothes and way of working is different than the French way. You learn so much, and it is very inspiring 

Some of the most successful creatives we talk to tell us that they’re doing what they loved doing at seven years old. So, how would the seven-year-old you feel about where you are now?

I think that the old seven me is proud of herself. She has achieved almost every wish she ever had, even if she went through some hard times. 

And what’s the next step for you and your career?

Do more projects, produce more creative concepts, bring my style to the next level and be known as one of the best French, BLACK, female fashion influencers. 

Follow Kimberly on Instagram at @kimberlyskinny