Check out our interview with popular Designer and Influencer Eliya Ciocolatto.
Originally from Moscow, Russian-born Eliya has established herself as the fashion world’s hidden gem. Also sharing Russian, Asian and Italian roots; Eliya’s background in the fashion world traces back to her adolescence – creating her first dress at the tender age of 12. From there forward she spent her youth creating and collaborating with some of Russia’s most recognizable figures from Olga Buzova, Victoria Bonya, to one of Europes biggest cult-girl groups Tatu. Her quick ascent to the heights of russian fashion earned her her first job as fashion-director of Russian label C&C Milano at 24.
In the following years she established herself as a stable in the Fashion Weeks Calendar, with exhibitions in Moscow, Miami, LA, Milan and in 2017, was the first Russian designer to display her collection at New York Fashion Week. Earning her MBA in China, Eliya’s education, experience, and taste for quality fabrics lead her to working with some of the worlds top manufactures in Russia, Turkey, China, Brazil and Italy.
Follow Eliya @eliyacioccolato & @cioccolatocouture
Hi Eliya, please tell us a little about you?
I am a fashion designer and successful influencer. I am based in Miami since 2015.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
If I had to describe myself in 3 words I would say that I am ambitious and positive business woman.
What’s your background?
I’m originally from Russia with Italian and Asian roots. I started my clothing brand in 2008. I have a law degree from Russian university and MBA degree from Chinese university.
When did you start in the business?
I established my company in 2008. From the start, I was getting many orders from my clients and this was a sign that I’m going the right direction. Later I became very successful in Russian market. In 2015 I started my fashion business in USA.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Ayn Rand “Atlas Shrugged” and John Kehoe “Train your mind for success.”
Can you name some celebrities that use your brand “Cioccolato Couture?”
I designed clothes for music videos of DJ Khalid, Future, Singer Amara la Negra, Khloe Kardashian.
Also for the reality show star Nene Leakes from The Real Housewives of Atlanta and Brazilian singer Gabriella to name a few.
What inspired your latest collection?
My latest collection was inspired by the nature of Miami and gold barocco style.
What is different from your fashion brand to other brands?
My brand is different from other brands because of unique style, production in Miami, classy and sexy fit.
Favorite look from your collection and why?
In the latest collection my favorite look is jungle barroco print swimsuit. That’s because it stylish, cozy and sexy.
What would you say a color that resonates with you the most and why?
I like two colors: green and gold. I like gold because it’s bright and gives me a positive energy.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
I really love my job because it combines many things and I never get bored.
How is your work doing with all this lockdown time?
My job didn’t suffer a lot because of lockdown, thanks God. That’s because most of my business is online.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
If I was a book, my tittle would be “Exciting…”. That’s because my life is exciting
What comes to mind when you think of the next collection?
In my next collection I want to create comfortable pajama style clothing. That’s because lately people spend more time at home and they want to be comfortable and cozy.
What is the key to your success?
The key to my success is working hard, believing in myself and never giving up.
How often do you create new collections?
I create a new collection every six months. But sometimes I add a few styles as a promo.
What do you think is the secret to have a successful Instagram account?
My secret of success on Instagram is very high quality content and consistency.
Who are some of your favorite models and designers, and why?
My favorite fashion designer is David Coma. My favorite model is Irina Shayk.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is my lifestyle.
How would you explain your fashion style?
My style is sexy, classy and sometimes extravagant.
Who is your biggest beauty inspiration?
Jennifer Lopez is my beauty inspiration.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness is being connected to myself and truly loving myself. Also balance and harmony.
What is next for Eliya Cioccolato in 2021?
In 2021 I want to achieve my new business goal and enjoy every moment of my life.
Something people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I worked as fitness instructor as a teenager.
Who was your role model as a child?
My role model was princess Diana.
What is your favorite healthy food?
My favorite healthy food is salad.
And your favorite cheat food?
My favorite cheat food is ice cream.
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
On a first date a deal breaker would be lying and being rude.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
My next project is an app which includes marketplace for influencers and brands.
What music do you like?
I like classic music and jazz.
What do you like to watch on Tv?
I like to watch TV shows about doctors.
3 things you can’t leave home without?
I can’t live without lipstick, hand cream and my dog.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
My perfect Sunday is spending time on a yacht enjoying the ocean.
What do you think of Social Media?
Social media has two sides: you can find many opportunities for yourself but also you can miss out on your real life.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram eliyacioccolato
TikTok eliyacioccolato1
Quote: “Live in a moment”
Actor/Actress: Cameron Diaz / Will Smith
Drink: Sparkling water
Celebrity Crush: Jenifer Lopez
