Today we’d like to introduce you to Himani.
Hi Himani , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
For over a decade, I’ve lived within the world of fashion, beauty, and subtle gestures — a hand model, a muse, a storyteller in still frames. My journey began in the heart of Chicago, among the dark romance and delicate craftsmanship of EGL (Elegant Gothic Lolita) designers. That world opened doors to many others — from the raw edge of streetwear to the elegance of high fashion. As an artist myself, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the creativity of makeup artists and thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with them on shoots.
As a petite model, breaking into agency representation came with its challenges. However, pursuing freelance work allowed me to carve out my own path. Through this, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with diverse creative teams and have been featured in multiple fashion publications. As an artist at heart, I found kinship in makeup artists — their brushes painting emotion, their palettes echoing dreams. Collaboration became my canvas.
After the pandemic, I began taking more control of the creative process—styling, directing, and shooting my own editorials. This led to my work being published in Blur (London) and L’Attirance (France). I’m now based in Los Angeles, continuing my modeling journey and looking forward to new collaborations with fellow creatives. I’m continuing to grow as a model and creative director. My goal is to partner with beauty brands—cosmetics, fragrance, jewelry, and more—and to keep creating visually impactful work that celebrates artistry and individuality.
Moving to Los Angeles marked a new chapter in my creative journey — one that led me into the world of jewelry design. Although I first learned to make body jewelry during the pandemic, it wasn’t until I arrived in LA that I fully embraced this art form. There’s a unique sense of fulfillment in creating something by hand — turning personal inspiration into wearable pieces that reflect both style and intention.
My initial motivation came from a desire to design pieces I personally envisioned but couldn’t find — accessories that blended elegance with individuality. Fashion has always been a core part of who I am, and jewelry became a natural extension of that passion. I’ve always been inspired by the phases of the moon and the romantic symbolism of roses, which now serve as key motifs in my work.
My first handmade piece was a meaningful gift: a necklace featuring the moon phase under which my friend was born, hand-painted with care. That small act sparked a deeper passion, and soon I was creating full body chains, necklaces, and unique designs that reflected a blend of gothic elegance and soft romance. Incorporating real rosebuds added a timeless, natural touch, while chandelier elements introduced a bold, vintage-inspired dimension.
Each piece I create is one-of-a-kind, intentionally varied in design and detail — with each moon piece being painted by hand. My goal is to continue crafting body jewelry that evokes a sense of beauty, mystique, and refined femininity — pieces that feel like adornments of personal storytelling.
My designs being inspired by the phases of the moon invoke the quiet power of transformation and the timeless romance of roses. These elements speak to both the softness and strength I aim to capture in every piece. Jewelry-making, like modeling, is another form of storytelling — a way to share what I love, what inspires me, and how I see beauty in the world.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being a petite model has come with its own set of challenges. In an industry that often prioritizes taller body types, I’ve frequently been overlooked by agencies and clothing brands due to my measurements. This disparity continues to persist, even in sectors like beauty, where full-body modeling isn’t always required. Despite these obstacles, I carved out a space for myself in the freelance world, leading to many meaningful collaborations and international features. I’m especially drawn to beauty-focused projects, where my expressive presence and attention to detail can truly shine. I’ve found joy and fulfillment in pivoting more toward beauty-focused work — a space where I can still express my creativity and passion for visual storytelling.
Living in Los Angeles has given me hope for broader opportunities. I’m looking forward to connecting with creatives who value experience, authenticity, and versatility, and who see the strength and artistry I bring to every collaboration.
As for my jewelry, it’s a newer pursuit — one I’ve only recently begun exploring in depth. I’m still learning and growing in the craft, but I approach it with curiosity and a deep desire to improve. Balancing my creative endeavors with my academic path — as I work toward becoming a doctor — has certainly been a challenge, especially when it comes to managing energy and time. But each step forward, whether in modeling, jewelry, or medicine, is part of a larger journey rooted in passion and purpose.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a multidisciplinary creative — primarily a fashion, beauty, and hand model with over a decade of experience. My work spans editorial, high fashion, street style, and beauty, all rooted in visual storytelling and artistry. My modeling is known for capturing visual stories and emotional depth — where each image becomes more than just a look, but a narrative. What sets me apart is my dual perspective as both a model and an artist. I approach every shoot as a co-creative process, bringing not only presence but intention.
I began creative directing and photographing my own sets — styling, shooting, and building visual worlds from concept to execution. I’m most proud of these self-directed editorials, which have been featured in well-known fashion magazines such as Blur (London) and L’Attirance (France). Having full creative control and seeing that vision recognized has been one of the most rewarding milestones in my career.
In addition to modeling, and stepping into the world of jewelry design, my jewelry is known for its elegance — particularly my hand-painted moon phases and the use of real rose buds, which add a romantic and gothic sensibility to each piece. What began as a gift for a friend has now grown into a small body of work featuring body chains, necklaces, and ornate elements like chandelier crystals. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and crafted with symbolism, care, and personal meaning.
Remaining authentic to my vision — and watching it resonate with others — is what I’m most proud of. As I continue to evolve creatively while also pursuing a path in medicine, I hope to work with brands and artists who value individuality, emotional depth, and the artistry behind every detail.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I have not been making jewelry for very long – only for about a year. I am humbled by the success and enthusiasm I have been shown for my work. This encourages me greatly to keep creating and to keep evolving my designs.
Pricing:
- body chains: $90-150
- Necklaces: $35-60
- Earrings: $20
Contact Info:
- Website: https://instagram.com/himani.jpg
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.moon.phase
- Other: https://instagram.com/the.petite.doll
Image Credits
All my photos are my own.
