With 2.2 million followers on Instagram and a career that sees her model for labels all over the world – not to mention the infamous attention she garnered when Justin Bieber posted a picture of her to his Instagram account a few years back – Scarlett Leithold is a name and face you might be already familiar with. The LA native, who is currently in Australia and starred in our exclusive poolside shoot below, sat down with GRAZIA to talk about staying fit, career goals and, despite her mass online appeal, not being “sucked in” by social media.

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT BEING A MODEL?

Modelling has taught me so much about myself by constantly taking me out of my comfort zone. When I first started I was nowhere near being comfortable in front of a camera, traveling and being alone in new places, and always working with and putting my trust in strangers. I wasn’t sure it was the job for me for those reasons and many more, but I knew if I didn’t try I’d regret it and now I’m so grateful for the experiences it’s given me and in turn, more confidence and security in myself as a person.

“It honestly blows my mind that this many people care what I do”

With over 2.2 million followers now on Instagram, how do you feel about having such an incredible influence over so many people?

It honestly blows my mind that this many people care what I do. I just try to keep my Instagram personal and post what I like and what I feel is genuinely me. I don’t like to use Instagram for advertising unless it’s something I believe in and can influence those who follow me in a healthy way. I have to stay mindful of the people who look up to me, they shouldn’t be swayed into buying things that I don’t even use.

Do you find it easy or difficult to constantly cultivate your social media story? Is there a pressure to constantly update your platforms and create interesting content?

I just see Instagram as a platform to show the parts of your life you’re proud of. It’s a way to stay connected with people who want to follow what you do and are interested in you. I post pictures from my jobs that I love, when I get fun pictures with friends, or feeling my makeup that day, etc. Although Instagram has become a part of my job, I don’t really exploit it. I don’t like taking pictures everywhere I go and do things just for content, that not really who I am. I just want to enjoy life and try not to always be on my phone getting “sucked in” to the world of social media. What’s most important to me is to show how grateful I am for the people that support me, keep them updated, and talk to them personally as much as possible.

“I just want to enjoy life and try not to always be on my phone getting “sucked in” to the world of social media”

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TRAVELLING THE WORLD FOR WORK, HOW DO YOU MAKE SURE YOU STAY ON TOP OF YOUR HEALTH AND FITNESS?

I don’t have any strict diet or workout regimen. I just listen to my body and what it needs to feel good. I’m always hungry so I eat a lot and do my best to eat healthy if the moment allows, I try to stay moving when I get the chance, and I like to look for new exercise classes in the new area I’m in (hot yoga, pilates, barre, etc). It’s hard to stay motivated when I’m exhausted from work and travel, but that’s something most people deal with, all we can do is try our best.

What is your favourite thing about Australia? And Los Angeles?

Australia has so many amazing views, beaches, restaurants (the food is incredible).. I’m overwhelmed with all of the things I want to do in the time I’m here. Everyone I’ve met has been friendly and accommodating and want to show me a good time. Coming here alone I knew I’d have to adjust, but I haven’t been uncomfortable for a minute. I grew up in LA so it will always be home for me. The weather is almost perfect year round, you can drive a couple hours and ski in the mountains, and I live 5 minutes from the beach. It’s similar to Sydney in that it’s a big city with a lot going on but pretty laid back, and you’ll meet so many kinds of people with different goals and aspirations.

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What do you hope for for the future? Victoria’s Secret? Your own label? Something completely different?

I started working pretty young so I try to take the opportunities that excite me and see where they guide me in my career. I don’t want to settle on one path yet. I’m learning more about myself and my passions as I go and have tons of plans for the near future, including starting my very own brand. And of course Victoria’s Secret would be a dream for me!

What is on your dream shopping list for the new season?

I’m always looking for new jewellery! I love chunky gold  rings and necklaces to stack, and I’m going through an obsession with pearls at the moment. I’m always wearing comfy clothes and jewellery makes the laziest outfits look put-together.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: sDAN NADEL
STYLIST: CHARLOTTE STOKES
MODEL: SCARLETT LEITHOLD @ VIVIEN’S
MAKE-UP: KATIE ANGUS
HAIR: ANTHONY NADER