She’s running as fast as those patent leather ankle straps will let her.
Paired with vintage Levi’s, a top from the emerging designer Sasha Therese, and a Muse Boutique blazer draped over her arm. The endless French 75 cocktails are starting to take their toll as she scales red velvet stairs and pushes through glittering gold doors that tower above like an enchanted forest.
Why is Cinderella late?
Because she has a very important date—to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle.
The Burlesque show I had just witnessed had hypnotized me. It was a perfect storm of deep splits, plush feathers, and mesmerizingly beautiful performers that I almost forgot my own name. Mid-stride, one of the dancers from the show darts past me, still wearing her wig as a disguise. Shouting over her shoulder in a mix of French and English, she beams, “I LOVE your top, BEAUTIFUL!” She gestures animatedly, kissing her fingertips before slipping into a taxi like a whisper of silk.
I think I’ll always be in love with how fashion has the power to bring people together.
This past year has been all about stepping into my fullest potential. It’s been a journey of tuning in, listening to my internal compass, and charting the course of my own ship.
I’m an extrovert, and I own it.
I’d rather turn heads than blend into the background. Mesh, lace, and latex are staples in my wardrobe. I’m probably one of the few people who have more statement pieces than basics. I adore heavy glam and thick lashes, but most importantly—I love having fun.
In a world where neutrals, beige, and keeping to oneself seem to be the norm, I’ve often felt like a show pony in the wrong ring. But when I entered the media, social media, and fashion scene, my boldness—both inside and out—was embraced with open arms. Over the past year, I’ve continued to cherish the industry that gave me a first-class ticket to being Cass.
From attending the Karen Walker x Adidas event celebrating 10 years of harmony, walking for Caitlin Crisp in the Gab Waller show, enjoying new hotspots like Tobi and Darling, to Laura’s beautiful Mother’s Day brunch for Aerin Beauty, and nearly selling out Lululemon’s Strawberry Milkshake Colour. Discovering a new love for shooting Bridal with Natalie Rose, hosting my first wellness event, and witnessing the rise of exciting brands like Chalon. I’ve felt the pulse of creativity stronger than ever. More doors are opening for New Zealand, and opportunities are no longer just knocking—they’re coming from inside the room.
Standing on a platform with Jean Paul Gaultier in Sydney, surrounded by some of the most inspiring Kiwis, I had a real ‘wow’ moment. In our corner of the world, we’re doing some pretty incredible things.
A pivotal moment for me this year was hosting my own wellness event with Eve Wellness and Laura Mohi. I had a magical experience standing in front of 100+ people who lay flat on their backs as I guided them through a meditation. As I walked around the room, even the food vendors stopped what they were doing and sat down to listen. Tears slid down faces as everyone confronted their own internal journey. It was like the last decade of my life spent online had suddenly made more sense than ever, as I realized how much had translated off an iPhone and into my real life.
I’d found what I was born for.
Looking ahead, the next chapter feels like it’s going to be one of the best yet. Between working as a Digital Strategist, balancing photoshoots, and splitting my life and heart between New Zealand and Australia, I’ve been quietly developing my own grown-up, late-twenties business idea. I’m excited to introduce it to you soon.
Cinderella wasn’t late returning home; it was her time to sparkle.