Interview With Australian Model Nicole Shiraz

The 25-year-old model, businesswoman and fashion designer answers our candid Q&A

Hello Nicole, Welcome to ABOUT INSIDER! You launched your first swimwear line this year (Nalia Swim) and modelled it’s first billboard. How was that experience?
Hi! It’s been such an amazing experience to not only work behind the scenes but of our course be the face of the brand. Being able to model something that you designed and then seeing yourself on a Hollywood billboard was one of the proudest moments of my life. 

Who’s your role model?
I actually have so many role models (laughs). I like to look up to women who can work in more than one field. To be able to put on different hats and have different skill sets is not easy. To name one example is Jessica Alba, who not only is a talented actress but also a very savvy businesswoman. 

Can you tell us something that would surprise us about you?
I actually am very tomboy. My social media says other wise and of course the way I dress at public events. Most days I’m dressed like a boy, hoodie over my head and in sweatpants. I’m either watching sports on the couch or going to sporting matches. 

What’s the most fun job you’ve ever done?
Designing the Nalia Swim ‘Tulum Collection’ was definetly the most fun I’ve ever had. It didn’t even feel like a job because that’s how much fun I was having. It was different to anything I’ve ever done before. I got to not only travel, meet amazing people and learn about their culture but then take everything I learnt and design a collection.

What’s the scariest modelling job you’ve ever done?
When I was 20 years old I did a tourism campaign for Miss Indonesia. I remember I had to do a photoshoot not only in front of the crew but in front of hundreds of beauty pageant contestants staring at me. I didn’t know where to look because in my head I felt like all these girls were judging me. I remember telling myself “it’s just you here, no one else” and trying not to look directly at the girls (laughs). 

What’s the most recent pick-up line you’ve heard?
I think he used my last name as a pick-up line. He said something like “Is your last name Shiraz? Because you’re like fine wine…”

What’s your type?
I really don’t have a type of look that I go for. If we vibe together and they match my energy then that’s usually a good sign for me. What I do look for in a guy is someone who is family oriented, has a strong faith in God and a goofy personality. My saying was always “if he can make me laugh then he’s won my heart” because it really is hard to make me laugh. 

What’s your usual exercise regime?
I like to start with 30 minutes of cardio either treadmill or bike. Then I spend 30 minutes doing core and band exercises. I like to finish all my workouts with 30 minutes doing weight exercises.

Who do you miss the most when you’re travelling?
My family in Australia! Family is so important to me and growing up with 4 younger siblings, I have to check in with them regularly. 

What’s your best travel tip?
Put the phone down and experience it. Sometimes we get caught up in social media and forget to really enjoy each precious moment. 

What’s your biggest regret?
Probably that I didn’t study abroad. I always wanted to study fashion in Europe. 

What’s your best tip for taking a good selfie?
Good lighting and just be natural. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Relax and smile or pout – whatever works for you. 

When’s the last time you lost your temper?
Probably an hour ago when my uber eats delivery came incorrect. I’m a foodie so if you make me ‘hangry’ then hulk will come out (laughs).

What could you not live without?
Probably my meditation and motivational playlist! I love meditating and connecting with myself.

What would you be doing if you didn’t have a swimwear brand?
I’d probably still be working as a TV host and travelling to host sports matches.

What’s been your biggest life lesson so far?
That you can do anything you want in life. Nothing is impossible and to be patient when you’re going through the struggles in life. There’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, you just have to keep going!

Nicole Shiraz is the founder and designer of Nalia Swim. Follow her on Instagram here.