In the Bag: Bella Thomas
Bella Thomas in the sun.
We first encountered Bella when she starred in our editorial feature for INPRINT Magazine. Here, we speak to her about what it truly means to ‘love your job’, and why you don’t need to have it all figured out from the beginning. Bella is the face of some of Australia’s leading brands, and it’s not hard to see why. Although if you ask her, she’ll say it’s not all as seamless as it looks. Read on to find out what it’s like to navigate a career on a 24/7 platform, and where to find the best pesto in Bondi.
Career
My career has definitely unfolded in a way I didn't see coming, and even as it keeps unfolding I am being taken by surprise at every angle. I work as a creative and model, and I didn't ever expect to be in an industry where I get the luxury of working alongside so many incredible and inspiring people, I feel so grateful to be so immersed in it all. I also didn't understand what it truly meant to 'love your job’ when I was younger. Growing up, I was unsure of what I wanted to do as I wanted to try so many avenues, so I was nervous I'd just fall into something for the sake of paying my bills. Very grateful to be where I am. I am truly happy... which is the goal right?!
Design
I like to take my time and go slow when approaching dressing in the morning. I'm up pretty early, so there is no sense of rush. I also like to incorporate some sort of movement into my morning - I'm either at a class or on a walk. In regards to getting dressed, I always choose a pair of pants first - yes, always pants! I know what works well on my body, so I find that's the best place to start for me. From there, I usually throw on a simple tee or singlet — I don't like much fuss. I put more effort into my jewellery, and I don't mind wearing a few extra bits. Usually stacked rings and earrings.
Life
I definitely found it challenging to separate life from work when I started working in the creative sphere - it was really hard to ever completely switch off. It can be tough when a lot of your work is associated with Instagram as it's a 24/7 platform, so it became a conscious decision for me quite quickly to put things in place to help my time management. I set up a few disciplines and planned everything more, rather than always being spontaneous with it. It was a game changer for me.
Utility
I don’t consider myself an organised person. This is forever on the top of my goals list. I often feel frantic and my brain constantly feels scattered. However, I always get the job done and I’ve learnt to trust that from the outside, work comes across seamlessly (no one sees the process!). I know all I need to carry is a physical diary or planner in my bag! That is all more work related - when it comes to my social life, I am the planning queen!
Recommendations
My best recommendation is a favourite quick recipe to whip up for a dinner party. I get some fresh pasta from Fabbrica, this pesto sauce I get from Health Emporium in Bondi, plus chopped anchovies. It's so good. And of course, some nice wine to wash it all down.