By Alexandra Bonnet
Featured in BELLO Style November 2019 issue #194
Lights, Camera, Fashion! Jaime Xie is a digital content creator and luxury fashion influencer who has people’s heads turning as her clothes speak for themselves. Being a first-generation Asian-American, she had to overcome certain obstacles but luckily she is surrounded by family and friends who support her everyday. Indeed, there are benefits and challenges that come with being the embodiment of two cultures. Jaime opened up about her roots and how different both cultures are.
Most traditional Asian parents expect their children to graduate from a top university and specialize in the fields of medicine, business, or the law. Beautiful careers but it does not mean they are for everyone. In fact, those desires from Asian parents can add a lot of pressure on a young adult trying to pick another path. For our young fashionista, she was fortunate enough to have parents who “gave her the freedom to pursue her dream job in the luxury fashion world as an influencer and digital talent.” It did take her parents some time to fully wrap their mind around this but within a year their full trust was there and they understand what she does and most importantly, why she does it.
Being a French-American myself, I understand what it is like to be on the tightrope between cultures and I am sure there are many of you out there who do too. With this, you learn many lessons and for Jaime, those lessons are: “appreciation, determination, and commitment.” You see the world through many different lenses which allows you to open your mind and heart to all the wonders and downfalls that arise. For those who have experienced obstacles (which is basically every human being), take a moment to see where you are in life. Did you find the support you deserve? Are there ties that need to be cut or made? What do you hope to accomplish in life and are you on the right path? Think back to a time you discovered your passion.
For Jaime, it was during her first Fashion Week that she discovered her love for fashion. In that moment, she was surrounded by people who love it just as much as she does which brings on a bountiful amount of inspiration. Street Style and Luxury Fashion are her favorites but she also appreciates sustainable fashion such as faux fur and faux leather. But what makes up the best “street-style look?” Well, there isn’t anything really specific but in general, an eye-catching statement piece comes in handy. As she wisely expressed: “It’s more about the whole look and the way you carry yourself. It needs to be cool and chic but at the same time effortless.”
Travelling to places such as, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Paris and many other places is a beautiful and exciting life but the trick is to find the balance. Jaime opened up about this and how she is still struggling to find that balance. She loves discovering new places and meeting amazing and creative people but she also hopes to make more time for her family and friends. Despite the ups and downs, she keeps it light as she expressed: “But for me, the positives outweigh the negatives and I’m enjoying it.”
I have to say, as I am writing this piece I can’t help but smile at the words Jaime expresses. She finds beauty in any situation and has gotten a grasp on what matters. Having been featured in over 30 top magazines, I had to know her secret to success and what she said next really stuck: “Stay true to yourself and own your style. Being authentic and unique is so important in this industry. Also, surround yourself with the right people.” This applies to any situation we find ourselves in and by remembering this, we bring ourselves to a higher level of love and acceptance.
Among the many things this young beauty has tackled on, she will also be starring as a lead in a new Netflix series that is all about living in luxury. As Jaime described it: “You can think of it as a TV show version of the movie crazy rich Asians. The show follows my friends and me around LA. I’m excited for the world to see it!” Here at BELLO, we can’t wait to see what comes out of this show! Fashion, luxury, and fun…yes please!
Jaime Xie’s beauty shines inside and out as she inspires those around through her influence, fashion, blog, and wise words. Oh, did I forget to mention that? Yes, she has her own blog. One for which she is inspired daily. From travelling to different cities to scrolling on Instagram and seeing her friends, there is so much content right outside her door. Many of it is actually spontaneous and her “photos are not perfectly staged,” she commented. Raw and authentic, be sure to keep an eye out for this world-travelling beauty!
Just remember one of Jaime’s favorite quotes whenever you feel lost : “if you can’t stop thinking about it, don’t stop working for it.”
Photographer: ABRAHAM BERMUDEZ @abe.bermudez
Creative Direction: ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph
Styling: JESSICA ARMSTRONG @jessicaarmstrong_style
Hair: SOPHIA PORTER @thesophiaporter
Makeup: DESIREE GUTIERREZ @facejutsu
Production: @BELLOMediagroup x @Maisonpriveepr_la x @bonnetalex18
Order your print copye HERE. Full digital preview below: