Interview by Carol Wright | Photos Courtesy of Jenn Roberts and Juliana Ramirez
Mya Gelber did not set out to amass a large following once she started sharing her outfits on social media, but after giving users a glimpse into her style people naturally wanted to see more. Gelber talked to NYOTA about creating content for social media, experimenting when it comes to clothing, and not being scared to start posting.
Do you have an early memory of being connected to a piece of clothing or an accessory that sparked something in you and made you want to explore fashion further?
I have loved getting dressed ever since I can remember. I used to make my mom late to work every day because I spent so much time picking out my outfits. When I was eight, I fell in love with my first pair of Mary Janes. They were black satin Mary Janes with embroidered flowers I bought from Payless. I wore them every single day, till they completely fell apart. I remember being devastated when my mom finally forced me to stop wearing them because the soles were coming off.
How would you describe your style in three words?
Preppy, off duty, playful.
What are your tips for finding a personal style and being open to experimentation when it comes to clothes?
Start with reflecting on the pieces in your closet that you love and that make you feel confident when you’re wearing them. Think about why you love those pieces and why you gravitate to them. Then try styling those pieces as many ways as you can. This will challenge you to be more imaginative with the clothes you already have and really help you refine your personal style. I’ve found this exercise really helpful for me when I want to get excited about my closet again or want to filter my style. I also always find inspiration from just plain old people watching. I love walking the city and finding inspiration from the people around me and seeing new ways to style pieces I might already own.
You create content on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. What initially motivated you to start posting online?
When I first started posting on TikTok around 2022, I was working a very stressful job that I had also outgrown. I was really in need of an outlet, specifically a creative one. I had put so many of my creative passions on the back burner, fearing they would never amount to financial stability. TikTok made it so easy to create content, in a no-stress, no-pressure kind of way. I also felt that since it was still a new platform, it gave me some anonymity. I could be whoever I wanted, I could create whatever my heart desired. I instantly loved it and I have fallen in love with editing videos and making content. It’s so fun to find new ways and new mediums to share the things I love and provide some inspiration to others.
Creating fashion content on social media can be difficult because a lot of the time people tend to subscribe to trends and make similar videos. How do you work to set yourself apart?
I don’t intentionally try to set myself apart. I try to be as authentic as I possibly can and share what I love and care about, with hope that some people can resonate. I don’t post or create content with the intention of amassing tons of followers, but with the hope that someone or a few people will resonate with my style or personality and find some inspiration. If that means I keep my circle smaller, I am so happy with that.
Social media users are starting to gravitate back toward longform content. Do you find that longform content allows you to be a bit more intentional and thought out?
Yes, I love the revival of long-form content. It’s also the reason I love writing and the popularity of Substack. Blogs are back! I think it’s reflective of our desire to consume less content or to consume content more intentionally.
You’re currently studying law and contributing at The Strategist, while making content, which is a unique combination. Do you feel that creating content allows you to express yourself creatively while school and writing gives you that balance and allows you to tap into the left side of your brain more?
Definitely! I feel incredibly privileged and grateful to be able to study law, write, and make content. They are all important facets of who I am.
What advice do you have for those who want to create content in the fashion space?
I say go for it! I think a lot of people are hesitant to begin creating content because they are scared of what people will think or feel the industry is oversaturated. I felt the same way. I was so scared to start posting on Instagram, for fear of what people in my life might think. Overall, the people who I love, care and support my social media journey and are excited for me. And if anyone wants to judge, that is a reflection of them, not you. What I also find amazing about style/ fashion content (or any type of content), is that there is really something for everyone. You may feel hesitant about posting because you are afraid your style won’t resonate with people, but trust me, someone out there will and you could be a source of inspiration for them. Overall, I have met so many wonderful people from starting social media and have found so many exciting opportunities.
This story first ran in issue 36: The Art Is Life Issue. Read more from the issue here.
