Meet Alina Robu setting the scene ablaze with unmatched brilliance and style. Dripping in radiant brilliance, this vision blazes a new standard of opulence, commanding attention with every fiery step.
Team Credits –
Creative director: Alina Robu & Zihang Sheng @alinarobu @skipsheng
Model: Alina Robu @alinarobu, Zihang Sheng @skipsheng
Make-up artist, hair & styling – Zihang Sheng
Photographer and Photo assistant – Emad Bukhari @emadbukhawri
With a career that sparkles brighter than the most precious gemstones, Alina has graced runways, adorned countless magazine covers, and stolen the hearts of fashion enthusiasts around the globe. Alina shares her passion for the most exquisite collections and brands, guiding us through a world of shimmering elegance and timeless beauty. As you flip through the pages of this special edition, let Alina be your beacon of style, offering insights, advice, and inspiration to elevate your own fashion journey. Whether you’re a seasoned fashionista or just starting to explore the world of glamour, Alina’s wisdom will guide you to discover the perfect pieces to adorn yourself with confidence and flair.
Welcome to L’Officiel Alina! Let’s start with something fun, if you could collaborate with any designer, past or present, whom would it be and what kind of collection would you create?
If I could collaborate with any designer, that would be Thierry Mugler. Since he is known for his hot silhouettes and risqué designs, I would create a collection that would empower women’s bodies through it. That would make them feel fierce and excited and let them know that their curves are beautiful. Clothes that move with the body, not against it.
If you could only wear one type of jewelry for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
If I would wear only one type of Jewelry for the rest of my life, that would be the ring and talisman pendant from the new Bulgari collection “Cabochon”, because of the true and fascinating story behind it. A story of an antic-imperial Roman goldsmith tradition when gem faceting didn’t exist and the only way to glorify them was to shape them polishing them to what later became the “Cabochon cut”. This inspired the new collection design: organic, fluid, and feminine. The talisman pendant represents two Cabochons kissing each other as a celebration of Love and Luck.
What’s your favorite thing about being a model, and what’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far?
Modeling is an incredible journey that allows me to explore the world, meet inspiring people, and enjoy the freedom of being on the go. Despite the tough demands of the job, such as posing in extreme weather or other challenges, I find the experience to be immensely rewarding. The end result is always worth the hard work and effort.
Describe your ultimate fashion runway walk in three words.
Walking the fashion runway with passion, uncompromising spirit, and beauty is a true testament to loving what you do and enjoying every step. Especially when it’s not a catwalk only but an overall immersive show reaching senses and emotions and providing clues behind the irresistible creativity and beauty.
What’s the most unique piece of jewelry you’ve ever worn, and what’s the story behind it?
A unique piece of jewelry can leave a lasting impression and inspire us to tell our own story. For me, the serpenti bracelet worn by Elizabeth Taylor on the set of “Cleopatra” in Rome in 1962, is a piece of jewelry that resonates with me, inspiring me in my journey. And I love even more the recent Serpenti High Jewelry creativity recently released by Bvlgari. Always evolving as a snake metamorphosis but never losing the initial DNA created by Egyptians goldsmiths more than 2500 years ago.
Let’s play a quick round of this or that –
Layered bracelets or a single bold bangle? A single bold bangle, sometimes I like to keep it simple.
Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds for sure.
Floral-inspired jewelry or geometric designs? Geometric Designs
Birthstone jewelry or personalized initial pendant? Birthstone.
Costume jewelry or fine jewelry? Fine High Jewelry any day at any time.
If you could time travel to any fashion era, which one would you choose, and what iconic look would you want to sport?
If I could time-travel to any fashion era, there’s no doubt that I would choose the bold and daring aesthetic of the 1980s and 90s. The hyper-feminine, body-hugging silhouettes, the narrow waists, extremely broad shoulders, the bold colors, and the strong power dressing aspect – all of it speaks to me on a deep level. Thierry Mugler was a true pioneer in the fashion industry. He didn’t just create fashion and couture, he invented it. His innovative designs and imaginative concepts continue to inspire and influence the industry to this day. One of his iconic looks that I absolutely adore is the whimsical and elegant take on the “Birth of Venus”. This stunning piece is an homage to Botticelli and was featured amongst 300 other looks for the 20th anniversary of his couture house. I would be beyond thrilled to wear this masterpiece one day and channel my inner goddess.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about the modeling industry, and how would you debunk it?
Models are just pretty faces. One of the most pervasive misconceptions is that models are solely selected for their physical appearance. While aesthetics is undeniably important, the modeling industry also values qualities such as professionalism, adaptability, and versatility.
Do you have any tips or tricks for mixing and matching different types of jewelry to create a cohesive look?
When mixing and matching different styles, I try to choose pieces that have a similar color or metal tone. This will help to create a more harmonious look and prevent my jewelry from clashing. One of the easiest ways to pair your permanent jewelry pieces is to choose pieces that share a similar aesthetic or theme. My advice is to experiment with different styles and textures to create a look that is uniquely yours. Ultimately, the key is to choose pieces that reflect your personality and enhance your overall appearance.
Lastly, what’s the one piece of advice you’d like to give our readers out there?
Be confident! Confidence is key!
Being confident can be hard – it took me a very long time to get there. I’m still not super-confident, but I am confident in the decisions that I make for myself and what I put out into the world. Confidence goes far beyond clothes. Confidence, or a lack thereof, can be a huge issue in relationships and at work, especially if you work for or with someone who doesn’t value your opinion or is hyper-critical of others. If you have an idea, share it with confidence. If you love something, own that! Believe in yourself and take pride in every step you take!
