The original influencer.
Meet the 90s fashion icon who put Kim Kardashian on the map, and the OG of reality TV. Who could forget The Simple Life, which recently celebrated 15 years since it was first aired.
When team Emirates Woman met her, it was a real pinch-me moment. She stormed into the hotel room with a posse of people behind her and actioned the re-recording of her walking into the room. She was in her element, directing the content that was to air about herself. She was both fabulous and ebullient. She was a woman on-the-move, and she had this boundless energy and we were all in awe.
Paris has this energy. It was like meeting your bestie even though we had only spent a few hours in her presence. She threw out the occasional “Yassssssss” when she was happy with something (which we couldn’t help but repeat). Once we started to shoot, it was all about the music. She came alive listening to her set and created this electric energy while we were on set with her.
Over the years, even when she may have seemed unpopular, Paris’ fan base remained loyal on her journey to building her empire. She has been known to refer to her fans as ‘Little Hiltons’ and speaks to them through social media and WhatsApp.
We sat down with Paris straight after the shoot to get some more details on her life, love and what her happiest memory was being a part of the legendary show The Simple Life.
What is your secret remedy to all your success and what is it about perfume that you think resonates with people and your brand?
The secret to my success is hard work and a passion for making amazing products. I love what I do and being able to create 24 fragrances for my fans has become a dream come true.
What is your happiest memory of The Simple Life?
I have so many happy fun memories from it. I loved meeting the new people and the families we stayed with around the world. Also, being able to do all of it with my best friend Nicole, who is hilarious, was definitely a highlight.
Do you think enough women are going into business and how would you encourage them to be entrepreneurs?
It’s such an exciting time for women right now. I’m seeing so many brilliant businesses and entrepreneurs creating their own successful brands. I love that I can be an inspiration to them.
What is your mantra for life and how can that inspire young girls?
My mantra is to live life to the fullest and never stop believing. Always follow your dreams.
Pick up the July issue to read the interview in full.
Photography: Zeb Daemen
Fashion Direction and Styling: Carmel Harrison
Fashion and Words: Natalie Westernoff
Media: Emirates Woman
