Meet Trailblazer Lily Spinner

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lily Spinner.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always had an interest in photography and fashion. About a year and a half ago, I attended a portfolio building workshop for aspiring models called the Moda Shoot, where I met Kelsie O’Brien, the founder of the Moda Shoot and 816 Studio, a marketing agency for fashion brands. After attending the Moda Shoot, I was not sure if I wanted to continue modeling because I was so nervous, but the pictures turned out great so I decided to pursue it. I was asked to sign with The Agency Kansas City and I began working with multiple designers and photographers. I have walked in several different fashion shows, including Kansas City Fashion Week. During this time, I also took photography lessons and was working for my school store designing shirts. In addition, I started to intern for 816 Studio to learn more about the business and fashion industry.

This fall, my father was relocated to Orange County for his job and I was unsure of what was to come. I have been very fortunate to have had opportunities here in Southern California despite my recent move to the area. I’ve been able to work with designers around the country including Hannah Kristina Designs in Iowa, Alicia Perrillo in Chicago, Crystal Brakhage in Nebraska, and TinaMaria Shoes in New Jersey. I have upcoming trips to London and Kansas for KCFW and I’ve even been asked to co-star in an upcoming movie from Brian DiMuccio, the producer of “The Way We Weren’t”.

I am looking forward to what my future has in store.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
During the last few months, I have had several major life obstacles to overcome. Moving to California caused my world to turn upside down. My yellow brick road has not been quite so smooth. I began a new school mid-semester and it was extremely hard to catch up. Two weeks before finals, my best friend in Kansas died and left me in pieces. It was a struggle to keep up in school since my head wasn’t quite into it. I have progressed since then and am working every day to feel like myself again.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
I have created my own brand representing myself as a model and a student. I model for both print and runway and I handle all of the marketing and advertising for my Instagram account, @lily.spinner.official. In addition, I have an internship with 816 Studio which includes model coaching, which I love! I have been fortunate to work with models, both young and old, and I have helped them grow their confidence. My brand represents my passions, including self-confidence and body positivity. I am proud of how far I have come so far and am excited to continue building my own brand.

So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
In the fashion industry, there are many opportunities for women. Many women own their own photography studios, run media, and design their own clothing. There is any job they could consider available to them if they are willing to put the time in to make it happen.

Contact Info:

• Email: lspinnerfashion@gmail.com
• Instagram: @lily.spinner.official

Image Credit:
yellow dress & white shirt and blue pants stripes, yellow shirt, and tight purple skirt- @samirjanjuaphoto, flowy purple skirt and top, jeans and white top- @scottrinaldiphotography, sitting on stairs- @joshua_daniel_photography, red shirt- @__ursa__major__, black pants – @marcmez

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