LOVE ISLAND ALUM Olandria Carthen’s journey GOES TO SHOW THAT WHAT’S for YOU WILL NEVER miss YOU.

Though she and her partner Nic Vansteenberghe did not exit the villa as winners of their season, the Alabama native has since made winning her middle name. Olandria was quickly embraced by the fashion industry, carving out space for herself as the IT girl to watch. Within a year, she’s already graced the covers of Harper's Bazaar Vietnam, Glamour, and made her debut in Sports Illustrated. She’s also been a magnet for brand partnerships, having worked with Barbie for Coachella, McDonald’s, Sephora, Amika Hair Care, and too many more to name. One thing is now crystal clear: The Olandria effect is real.

Beyond her white hot success, Carthen brings a refreshing mix of poise, purpose, and personality to everything she does. Her legacy is being built in real-time, and she’s only just scratching the surface. Read about Olandria Carthen’s journey in her C&C 100 interview below.

What’s an early memory that shaped how you see or understand fashion today?

Watching my mom get dressed/dolled up for events.

You are undeniably one of the biggest breakout stars in reality TV history, and the fashion industry has embraced you with open arms. Did you foresee this being your reality?

I genuinely had no idea. My current reality surpassed what I could have ever imagined. I’m so grateful for the way I’ve been received in this community and know that it isn’t something that I would ever take for granted.

How has your personal style evolved this past year ? Who or what has been most influential in shaping your approach to fashion?

My style has evolved so much. I have to give a lot of credit to my stylists. They have held my hand through this journey and taught me so much about the fashion world. As far as personal influence, they are my greatest. As for inspiration - I have to say that Rihanna is someone that I always look up to when it comes to personal style. They always are right on the mark.

Name a designer brand that perfectly represents your personal style.

There’s so many different versions of me that I think it’s hard to name just one. I would say Blumarine, Valentino, Off-White, and Mugler all come top of mind.

Can you walk me through how an outfit typically comes together for you—from inspiration to the final look?

I always start with what mood I want to go for. Whether it be old Hollywood glam, grungy, soft and delicate, etc. Once I figure out what my vibe is, I work closely with my team to build onto that and decide what designer matches that vibe and build it out from there. I also really emphasize on my glam to really complete the look.

Can you walk me through how an outfit typically comes together for you—from inspiration to the final look?

I always start with what mood I want to go for. Whether it be old Hollywood glam, grungy, soft and delicate, etc. Once I figure out what my vibe is, I work closely with my team to build onto that and decide what designer matches that vibe and build it out from there. I also really emphasize on my glam to really complete the look.

What advice would you give someone who is struggling to find their signature style?
That personal style isn’t singular. I think that people think that personal style means that they always have to stick to the same overall theme. I personally think that I think that holds you back on discovering their style. Allow yourself to play with it and try new things.

What’s one word that describes the era your career is in?

Evolving

What’s one garment or accessory that can make or break an outfit?

Shoes

What outdated fashion trend do you secretly miss?

Capris.

What’s one current fashion trend you wish would go away (and quickly)?

Floral prints.

It seems the sky’s the limit for you right now. What goals do you have that you hope this massive platform will help you reach?

I’m very intentional with what I do and I always want to have a purpose behind each decision I make. That purpose is to uplift my community and be the example of young black girls who have big dreams that seem unattainable. To show them that they truly can do anything they set their hearts to.