We just linked up with your biggest style inspiration: London-based model, influencer, and designer Chantelle.
If you don’t already follow Chantelle (aka Chants) on IG, then we’re putting you onto the account that’s about to become your new Pinterest board. From her eclectic style incorporating bold patterns, pops of colour, and styling I wish I’d thought of first, to her equally bold and bubbly personality, Chants really is God’s gift to the fashion world. It’s just like her bio says: God gave me style and Grace – I’m just hoping some of both will rub off on me.
We caught up with Chants in central London for a photoshoot amidst the city she recently moved to, and asked her questions like: what would you be doing if you weren’t a model, where do you get your style inspiration, and… how can we dress like that too?
Transcription and photography by Lauren Mohindra for CultedXO.
Your fashion style is very eclectic, fun, and could even be described as eccentric, where do you pull inspiration from?
I take all my inspiration from my culture. I’m African, we have a lot of colours, and I also take a lot of inspo from African American fashion. I love streetwear, and merging streetwear and culture.
You have recently moved to London – do you feel as if your fashion style has evolved since moving, or have you stayed true to your roots prior to moving?
I would say I’ve stayed true to myself. It’s not changed since I moved.
One of your most iconic content types is taking fit checks on TFL, specifically on the central line. Do you ever feel apprehensive about taking content in public?
Sometimes I am, especially when people follow me [online], and film me. But, I always just forget and go on with it. I get scared, but not scared enough to stop.
Addison Rae recently reposted some of your viral Tiktoks – how do you feel about your content being viewed by celebrities?
I feel seen! I think a lot of my life, I’ve felt really un-seen, I’ve always dressed ‘weird’ and thought no one saw me, but now I feel very seen. It’s like, ‘now people actually see me!’ It’s a full circle moment, really.
What do you think is the hardest part of being a model right now?
I think for me personally, it’s about inclusivity. It’s definitely not as inclusive as it should be, or as it’s said to be.
If you could star in a campaign for any brand or designer, who would it be and why?
Okay, it would be Burberry. I think they merge city and country together really well, and that’s literally me. I grew up in a remote village and now I live in one of the biggest cities in the world. So, I feel like I am Burberry!
When you’re modelling, who do you try to emulate the most?
My younger self! I feel like I was very sassy as a child, and she’s in me! I try and reflect a lot of her in my modelling.
What’s your favourite item in your wardrobe right now?
My tights collection.
If you could only wear one colour for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Blue and yellow.
If you could only wear one hairstyle for the rest of your life, which would it be?
My bob, definitely. It’s so versatile.
Where do you find the majority of your clothes?
Charity shops, always.
If you weren’t a model and influencer, what do you think your career path would be?
I would either be a Pop-star, or into Marketing. I love Marketing!
