Nastya Swan is a New York-based fashion model and influencer who made her mark in the industry at a young age. At 16, she ventured to the Big Apple from Riga, Latvia to pursue her passion for modeling and social media. Throughout her career, Nastya has collaborated with renowned brands such as Maybelline, Tommy Hilfiger, L’Oréal, Zadig & Voltaire, and Dolce & Gabbana, and even graced the pages of ELLE magazine when she was just 18.
Nastya firmly believes in the power of pursuing one’s dreams, and she aims to inspire others through her personal journey. She shares an intimate look into her life on Instagram: @nastyaswan, where her genuine and candid approach has earned her close to a million followers. When she’s not working, Nastya loves to cook and delve into books on philosophy and art, which has given her wisdom beyond her years. Today she speaks exclusively to Art Insider.
What have you learnt as a Fashion Model and Influencer over the years? What advice would you give to your younger self?
It’s beautiful to express yourself through the media and be able to find people around the world who don’t know you but support you every day. I would hug my younger self and tell her that she shouldn’t be afraid of anything. She should try more and do more no matter what other people think.
What has been your favourite modeling job to date and why?
My favorite job was for Sephora. Shooting the campaign was so much fun and the process was very creative.
You have a substantial following of over 850,000 Instagram followers. Was there a turning point where your followers started to grow exponentially or was it gradual?
What 3 tips do you have for an aspiring Instagram Influencer?
Yes, my followers count started growing a lot when I moved to the USA and recorded my YouTube videos. I have a YouTube channel before where I shared my life with my audience. And also, my tiktok helped me to grow. As an influencer my advice is to not share everything you feel and think. Be real but be very conscious about what you put out there.
What apps do you use to edit your photos?
I edit my photos in Instagram and Snapseed mostly.
What Social Media Platforms are you currently on?
Instagram, tiktok and launching a new YouTube channel this year.
What advice do you have for a social media Influencer looking to increase their number of female followers?
I would only recommend to be yourself and not be afraid to express yourself. Doesn’t matter what other people think about you. Also, you should be very clear about your niche and who you are influencing. Don’t try to repeat other people’s niche but instead create your own niche.
What do you think are some top social media trends to watch in 2023?
I DON’T follow the trends I really think that you should be a trend. Be someone who people would want to follow. Don’t be afraid to be different
How do you think Instagram has impacted the Fashion Modeling industry?
Instagram made people show their personalities which is beautiful. When you are a model it’s completely different. You don’t have that much opportunity to speak and be heard. Through instagram you can share your life and be who you truly are.
What is your current skincare routine?
I love skincare!!!! These days I don’t use many brands but my favorite are Biologique recherche, Clarins, Paula’s choice, ordinary and Barbara Sturm.
I start with cleaning my skin with a gel cleanser from Biba.
Then I use a facial scrub from Acure beauty.
Then I apply a toner from Biologique recherche or Paula’s Choice
Then I apply double serum from Clarins on my skin
And finish with a moisturizer from Clarins or Barbara Sturm.
Last step is sunscreen from Elta md
What 3 products can you not live without?
My phone, chewing gum and lipgloss from fenty beauty! And avocado omg it’s 4 now:)