I recently had the pleasure of interviewing German-Nigerian personality, Jill Asemota who is no stranger to the global fashion industry. Having paid her dues and earned her respect, the former model now works as a stylist, personal fashion, and digital adviser for many German celebrities who depend on her to look their best.
Jill Asemota holds a degree in media and communication science from the University of Stuttgart and a diploma in TV journalism from the Bavarian TV Academy.
Not too long ago, she launched her personal blog as a central spot to share her life as a fashion insider. Through her blog and her social media channels, her followers and friends get exclusive insight into Jill’s lifestyle and the world of fashion, entertainment, and sports. She also uses this platform to offer styling tips, fashion inspirations, and shopping advice.
In this interview, Jill opens up about her Nigerian background, multiple fashion roles, and much more.
Here’s what Jill Asemota had to tell us…
Hello Jill, so tell us, who’s Jill Asemota?
I was born and raised in Heidelberg, Germany. My father is Nigerian (originally from Benin City, Edo State), and my mother is German. My father is a medical doctor who worked for the US military, so I grew up in a very international surrounding with multicultural friends. My sister and I were raised bi-lingual in German and English, and I attended an international school in Heidelberg. From a young age, I had to travel a lot with my family. After I finished my studies, I moved to Berlin to work in fashion.
You’re a fashion expert, model, and recently added fashion blogger to your titles; tell us a bit about your fashion career.
I started working as a model at the age of 16. I worked and lived in New York for several years; then, I returned to Germany to study media and communications. At 23, I founded my first company in Berlin, a fashion label called Chaya. When it comes to styling, I mainly dress German celebrities, music artists, and football players.
I also work as a style consultant for professional football players. Since I do quite a few things in fashion, I decided to launch my personal fashion blog in 2014 to share my work, travels, and insights into the world of fashion and entertainment. Although my blog team and I are based in Germany, I travel abroad almost every other week.
What inspired you to start your blog?
I’m basically online 24/7 :-). I’m surfing on BOF, Style.com, Fashionista, Buro247, etc.
I love fashion, digital and social media and the new business opportunities that come up with it. It’s the era of digitalization and I find it more than interesting to be alive during this time.
Further, the inspiration to start a blog came from my own experiences and lifestyle that have a lot to do with fashion. In the last 3 years, I attended international Fashion Weeks in Paris, Milan, New York, and Lagos last year for the first time.
Lagos was a great experience; I love how the fashion scene is emerging, and I know that Africa will play a significant role in fashion in the upcoming years. It’s exciting, and I will be back this October for the Africa Luxury Forum! Since I travel a lot and get to experience many interesting things, I decided to share them all on my own blog, jillasemota.de.
How would you describe your own personal style?
I like to mix classic and elegant designers, vintage pieces, UK high street, and urban street style brands. I would describe my style as classy-elegant-sporty.
Who’s your biggest inspiration fashion-wise?
Carine Roitfeld. She can be sexy but still elegant and classy at the same time. I met her once, and she is a really cool lady. I love women who are not afraid to show their femininity.
What’s the most interesting thing that has ever happened to you?
I get to meet so many interesting people and explore many cultures regularly, so it’s hard to decide which was the most interesting thing that ever happened to me. One thing that really touched me was the first time I traveled to Nigeria. Since I grew up in Germany and never really lived in Nigeria, it was more than interesting to explore the country that is part of my roots.
Do you have any fashion rules when putting an outfit together?
Yes, less is more. I rather go under- than overdressed. And when I wear a short skirt, I wear a long sleeve top. A woman doesn’t have to show too much skin to be sexy. I’m also into decent colors—Black, navy, grey, silver. I know Nigerians love colorful outfits and prints, but I’m more into the classic ones.
Where do you see your brand in the next five years?
As I do different things in the field of fashion like modeling, blogging, styling, etc. I am currently building my own personal brand. In the next five years, I will grow my business and hope to see it running successfully. I love the fields I’m working in. It’s essential to set goals and find your path.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
“Don’t be a follower, be a leader.” And my best friend always tells me never to stop believing in myself. Fortunately, I have people surrounding me that don’t only believe but are convinced about what I’m doing. You can’t be successful in business without a loyal team.
Who’s your #1 MCE (man crush everyday)
Honestly, I’m not into this MCE thing. I never posted an MCE on Instagram etc. So that’s a tough question. When it comes to men, I have a unique taste. I’m not into guys that are too much concerned about their looks. I don’t like men that take topless selfies in front of the mirror. I like easy-going, intelligent guys with a great sense of humor, a cool swag, good manners, and taste. *winks*
Jill, it’s been nice getting to know more about you and what you do. Thank you for sharing these with us.
Thank you!
For more of Jill Asemota, visit her website, www.jillasemota.de, and Instagram, @jill_asemota.
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