After storming the fashion scene as a Tumblr- and Instagram-savvy model in the mid-2010s, Sita Abellán became known as one of the cool henchwoman in the music video for Rihanna’s “Bitch Better Have My Money” and the girl with crazy style and colorful hair in street-style roundups everywhere. Nowadays, Abellán is a multi-multi-multi-hyphenate. The Spanish-born character works a model, DJ, designer, stylist to Colombian singer J. Balvin, and founder of the jewelry brand Lilith.
Fashion and music, she told the Cut, are how she gets her ideas across. “I am not a powerful communicator with words, so all my life I have been trying to find ways to communicate and connect with people,” she said. “Fashion is in my blood. In the same way, I feel music is a part of me. It expresses my feelings, and what I play says a lot about me. I simply enjoy connecting people through music.”
Abellán is also an accessories wizard, so launching a jewelry line was a no-brainer for her. “I love wearing a lot of jewelry, and I asked myself one day, Why not making my own? And my own clothing brand is coming very soon.”
We spoke with Abellán about chokers, never saying never, and not judging people.
What’s one piece from Lilith that’s especially meaningful to you?
The Garden of Love collar is my favorite piece from the last collection. When I wear jewelry, I like mostly wearing chokers, especially big ones. I think a choker is one of the most sexy accessories — and powerful at the same time.
How do you thank someone for a gift?
I don’t really receive gifts with real meaning lately, but when I do I give a hug or a kiss.
What would you never wear?
We say in Spain, “Never say, From this water I won’t drink.”
What’s your dream vacation?
In a forest near the sea close to the animals. Sunny and hot.
What’s a good book on your coffee table right now?
El Aleph, by Jorge Luis Borges. An incredible realismo mágico book that’s served as huge inspiration for my art and work. He and Salvador Dalí are two of my biggest inspirations.
Last show you binge-watched?
Ratched, but unfortunately there is only one season.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I love cakes and sweets a lot.
Secret to hosting a good party?
Always make sure all your valuables are hidden and have an incredible sound system.
What is a trend that you like right now?
I am not really into trends.
One you don’t understand?
I don’t judge anyone for what they love, and I don’t keep up to date with trends. I try to be as open-minded and understanding as possible.
Favorite restaurant in New York?
La Esquina is one of my favorites.
What’s the one thing you could eat every day for the rest of your life?
Oysters and lobsters.
Shoes you wear most often?
Lately, my Cactus Nike sneakers.
What are five inanimate objects that bring you joy?
“Even though I hate the taste of it, it keeps my body healthy and away from illness.”
“My video camera to capture every moment wherever I am.”
“I use Dr. Barbara Sturm products for my skin-care routine every day.”
“My USB stick so I can play my music wherever I go.”
