Julie Rotolo is April Please magazine's guest of the month. Like all of us, she juggles the roles of mother, entrepreneur, and woman, and explains how she skillfully balances all her activities...
Influencer Julie Rotolo answers April Please's questions
Hello Julie, can you introduce yourself in a few words?
My name is Julie, I'm 34 years old and I live in Alsace, in a small village near Mulhouse. I have two children and I'm married. Since I was very young, I have always been attracted to fashion and everything related to that field. Very quickly, I took up drawing and was already imagining my clothes coming to life on my loved ones! But life and the sensible choice soon led me to become a nurse. Tired of this daily routine that no longer pleased me, I found an outlet through my Instagram account. Very quickly, it gained a lot of momentum and I was able to launch myself by creating my own online shop: Madame Lychee.
You are a woman, wife, mother, and influencer. How do you manage your different roles on a daily basis?
It's a question I ask myself every morning when I get up. Am I doing well enough as a mother, wife, business owner? The mental load that society imposes on us always gives me the image that I never do things well enough. I would say that to start with, it's a real constant battle to stop feeling guilty; it's okay if everything isn't always clean at home, if one evening we order a pizza instead of spending hours cooking... life doesn't look like a Pinterest picture! I am lucky to have a very present husband who supports me in my choices, as do my children. I try to dedicate time to them, and by that I mean being fully available by, for example, putting my phone aside.
Life doesn't look like a Pinterest picture!
What do you think is a woman's greatest asset?
Her confidence. A woman who has confidence in herself will radiate a beauty that outclasses all standards! That is why for me there is no greater compliment than a woman telling me she feels good in her clothes. That is my primary goal at Madame Lychee!
What gives you confidence on a daily basis and allows you to go further?
People's feedback is my driving force. I am so proud to see people wearing my clothes and showcasing them! The support of my community has been incredible since the beginning, and I realize how lucky I am to be encouraged by such kind people. The support of my family and loved ones is also paramount. Without them, I would certainly have been discouraged a long time ago...
Tell us about the success you are most proud of
First of all, I will obviously talk about my children and my family. Then, Instagram and everything that comes from it is also a great pride! I never thought it would lead me here today and yet... It hasn't always been easy because people, even my loved ones, didn't understand what I was doing. For many, it is not a real "job" but a waste of time and a rather "strange" world. I am proud today to have been able to change this image and make them realize that I now live my passion.
What was your craziest bet?
Launching my Instagram account!
You have become a must-see fashionista in a short time, how and why did you start your blog /Instagram?
For a little backstory, it all started with a bet with a friend; he offered me a meal at a fine dining restaurant if I reached 1000 followers in one month. Less than a month later, it was done... and the machine was launched.
How would you define your style?
I don't really have a style; I dress according to my desire and mood. When I need comfort, there is nothing more pleasant than putting on a soft sweater. Just as when I need confidence, I feel good in nice heels! I love going around several stores to create a look that suits me 100%, regardless of whether it doesn't necessarily please others or fit the current trend. As Karl Lagerfeld said, "the essential in life is to reinvent yourself"
What is the fashion piece in your wardrobe that you could not live without?
Faux leather leggings. They are perfect for relaxing with a chunky knit sweater and sneakers, but can also create a very classy or even sexy look. In short, I love them!
What are your 3 April Please favorites and why?
The Gabriel ear cuff, the fine Jules ring and the Richard choker. They are delicate and can be worn with all styles.
To finish, for you April Please is...
Elegance and femininity.
Leave a comment