Ann Muli is an actress, model-cum-fashion influencer, and founder of Spicy Nest, an online lingerie store. Nailantei Norari caught up with the stylish entrepreneur to learn more about her fashion and style.

When did you start fashion influencing and why?

I started creating fashion content in 2020, just after Covid-19 hit Kenya and everyone was on lockdown. All the free time during lockdown helped me channel my creativity into my Instagram page.

I was able to build an audience by consistently putting out fashion content, as consistency is important when trying to grow on Instagram and YouTube.

What does image and style mean to you?

Style and image are important components of my life. I believe that they speak volumes to your audiences through sight, long before you even utter a word.

It is, therefore important that you curate an image and style that are in line with how you would like people to view and treat you.

How do you describe your personal style then?

I define it as simple elegance. I have always been effortlessly stylish. I believe my style has evolved with time and in tandem with the fashion knowledge that I have gained over time.

It would be unnatural if it did not. I really loved to wear the gaudy T-shirts with bold imprints of artistes written on them, but I am so glad that I outgrew that phase. But I have a few old pictures that remind me of what not to wear.

Where do you draw your style inspiration?

I get a lot of inspiration from Joy Kendi, Zendaya, Ciara and Mihlali (a South African YouTuber). They are exactly what effortlessly stylish is. 

You share style hacks on your Instagram page. Why is it important and how do you come up with them?

The sages did not lie when they said that necessity is the mother of invention. As I come up with some of the style hacks, I share from a point of frustration. For instance, when I want my skirt to pop and look more stylish, I can create a ruched design by looping a necklace on one side of the dress from belt to hem. I read and research a lot on fashion. I also love experimenting and seeing what works and what does not. I then share what works with my audiences. 

When did you start Spicy Nest and what was the inspiration behind it?

I started Spicy Nest in 2021 because I wanted women of all shapes and sizes to feel sexy. And what better way to do that than to don a nice set of lingerie? While people consider lingerie as something to be won on special occasions, lingerie can be worn as a powerful piece underneath a work suit or even to bed. Good lingerie can make you feel all-feminine and sexy, whether you are single or not.

One thing you cannot leave the house without.

A facemask! Seriously though, I cannot leave the house without my charger, lip gloss and lipstick. Lips can tell a lot about a person, so I ensure mine look good always.

What is your all-time best fashion buy?

My black leather jacket because it will never go out of style. It also can enliven just about any outfit.

Do you have fashion pet peeves?

Yes I do. Excessively ripped clothes. It’s getting out of hand guys. I mean Kanye West is doing way too much now! 

Recommend a fashion item every woman should have in their wardrobe.

Classic timeless pieces such as a good denim jacket and leather jacket. These should be staples in anyone’s wardrobe because they are versatile and they will never go out of style.

What scent do you use and what role does scent play in curating an image?

I use Heat Rush by Beyoncé. Nothing is more memorable than your scent, not even your outfit. You can look nice and smell terrible and you’ll see that your scent is what people will remember, not how good you looked. So, investing in your scent is important.

Share a fashion advice.

Every time you get dressed, do not forget to accessorise your outfit with a strong dose of confidence. Remember to also wear something that you are comfortable in as this will effortlessly help bring out the confidence.