We are currently living in the digital age where information is being transmitted on a global scale in a matter of seconds. Even the way we consume content has switched from traditional media sources to digital platforms with the rise of independent bloggers, video content creators and influencers who have become a conduit for the latest fashion, food, travel and lifestyle updates. 

One such tastemaker is Nellie Lim, who early on, has managed to carve out a name for herself by leaving her stable job as an account manager at a digital advertising agency to pursue being an influencer full-time. Known for her impeccable taste, eclectic outfits and surreal portraits that induce major FOMO, Nellie shares with us her everyday essentials to stay chic and connected, even on the go. 

What are your 5 everyday items that you can’t live without? 

1. iPhone: It has all my work emails, contacts, image/video assets, and I can shoot photos and use Apple Pay (so I can go an entire day without my wallet). I also forced myself to edit both photos and videos on my iPhone—allowing me to work on the go without a laptop.

2. Car: My car is my only mode of transportation, which help me get from meetings to shoots. I have a mini wardrobe in my car, which helps me save time when I need to change into different outfits. 

3. Coffee: Coffee is life… I’ve never gone a day without coffee!

4. Liquid lipstick: I can go makeup free the whole day but I need a touch of lipstick to look presentable.

5. Sunglasses: We always need a pair of good sunglasses in our tropical country.

Do these items reflect your personality too?

I like to stay connected, so my phone is always with me.

Is there a story behind any of these items?

My car was a wedding gift from my parents-in-law, and it is one of the best gifts my husband and I have ever received! 

What is your daily routine like?

My daily routine in Singapore involves waking up to coffee, going to meetings, fittings and sometimes hosting Bak Chor Mee dinners with my friends. I usually end the day by replying to emails and strategising about how to grow my business because I think best at night. It’s always a lot more hectic when I’m overseas on work trips as I have to wake up really early and get my hair and makeup done. Next, we will head to the scheduled location or even travel to photogenic places to shoot. Meals are a bit more sporadic whenever I’m overseas because work takes precedence. By the end of the day, my videographer and I will be back at the hotel to edit all the content before I post them. 

What inspires you?

Beautiful scenery inspires me the most. I love to travel and I always feel inspired when I visit places which are visually breathtaking.

What does style mean to you?

To me, style is your non-verbal voice—it’s the combination of the way you dress, talk, move or do anything. I think it goes beyond what you wear.

Why did you decide to become a full-time influencer?

3 years into my full-time job as an account manager at a digital advertising agency, I wanted to take a leap of faith while I was still young and commitment-free. It was also at a time when I started seeing potential in the power of social media and figured that it would be the best time to join Instagram since it was still at its infancy. I didn’t want to look back on my life at some point in the future and regret not making such a bold decision. My husband and parents fully supported my decision after I drew up a business plan to show how invested I was in it.

What differentiates you from your peers?

I believe what sets me apart from everyone else is that I’m more selective when it comes to taking on projects. I don’t believe in sacrificing branding for money, which is why I’m very particular about the brands I work with and the products I market. I only believe in sharing whatever works for me. 

How does one stay fresh?

Sleep, a positive attitude and a healthy amount of concealer. 

Is there an item that you don’t need, but absolutely must have?

My Amulette de Cartier necklace—it’s my precious talisman/lucky charm.

Favourite piece in your wardrobe?

I’m currently obsessed with my Midnight 00 pumps in shell polka-dot tulle & pvc.

What is the perfect outfit?

A statement coat with thigh-high boots—I’m a sucker for winter wear.

What is in your bag currently?

Lipstick, car keys, wallet, Giorgio Armani’s My Armani To Go New Iconic Cushion, mints, sunglasses, tissues and ang pows.

How has social media taken over traditional media?

Social media helps consumers relate better to brands, especially when they see a product on an “It” girl and not a model whose beauty and body can be intimidating and unattainable. So having a normal girl wear or carry a product allows the consumer to imagine as if she is wearing or carrying it. However, social media only works through visual consumption and it can never achieve the same educational effect that traditional media channels offer. 

What is the biggest career mistake you’ve made?

Not quitting my job earlier so I can start doing this full-time. If I had been one of the pioneers, my growth would have been more significant.

What is your greatest achievement so far?

I always feel incredibly lucky to be able to attend NYFW, MFW and PFW for 6 seasons now. And I’m still so thankful for all these opportunities and the fact that I’m being invited to the biggest fashion shows in the world.

What is the next milestone you wish to achieve?

This is more of a personal milestone but I’m really focusing on expanding my family from 2 to 3!

What would you like to be known for?

A fashion personality who surprises you with her friendly and genuine personality when you meet her in person [laughs].