Influencer marketing has emerged as one of the most widely used and impactful strategies in digital marketing. As of 2023, the global influencer marketing market was valued at 21.1 billion U.S. dollars, marking a more than threefold increase compared to its size in 2019. As the influencer endorsement industry continues to evolve, influencer marketing platforms are growing steadily in both scale and value, leading to increasingly lucrative partnerships between brands and creators.
Vlada Samoilenko is an international influencer, marketing strategist, and brand ambassador known for her distinctive style and deep understanding of visual storytelling. Originally from Odesa, Ukraine, she has worked in fashion capitals such as Florence, Milan, and Hong Kong, and is now based in New York City. Vlada has participated in major industry events like New York Fashion Week and Hong Kong Fashion Week, collaborating with global fashion, wellness, and lifestyle brands including Alo Yoga and Net-a-Porter. Her vibrant Instagram presence (@the.samoilenko) reaches over 120,000 monthly views, with post engagement ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 views depending on the format and topic.
Blending fashion, emotion, and modern aesthetics, Vlada creates content that is both visually compelling and authentically personal. Her approach - which she defines as “visual inspiration with depth” - fuses light, form, movement, and sincerity to turn each project into an immersive story. Beyond content creation, she offers strategic support to emerging brands, helping them grow their digital presence through audience engagement, creative direction, and purposeful collaborations.
- Vlada, how do you see the role of an influencer today? Is it more about visual aesthetics, personal style, or strategic communication on behalf of a brand?
Today, being an influencer means being a storyteller. It’s no longer just about pretty pictures or curated feeds — it’s about translating a personal vision into something relatable, aspirational, and strategic. For me, it’s a blend: the visual aesthetic opens the door, personal style keeps it interesting, but true influence happens through authentic, well-thought-out communication.
- You work with international fashion brands. In your experience, what distinguishes effective collaborations from superficial integrations?
Effective collaborations feel like a natural extension of who you are. The best partnerships are born when both sides understand each other’s DNA — not just brand placement, but storytelling, shared values, and aligned vision. You can always tell when something’s been crafted with care versus just being “inserted.”
- What types of content formats today truly engage the audience and help brands build an authentic dialogue with their clients?
Video content — especially short, immersive formats — is a king right now. But what really drives engagement is storytelling. Whether it’s a behind-the-scenes reel, a personal voiceover, or a raw, unfiltered moment — people crave honesty and emotion. Content that invites the audience to feel something always performs best.
- How has the role of an influencer changed with the rise of digital tools, analytics, and automation? Is there still room for creativity and intuition?
Absolutely. Data is helpful — it shows you the map. But intuition is the compass. With all the numbers and metrics, creativity has become even more precious. The most impactful content still comes from gut feeling, timing, and emotional intelligence.
- You often describe your style as “visual inspiration with depth.” How do you balance visual appeal with a brand’s marketing objectives?
I believe aesthetics should carry a message. When working with a brand, I try to create something visually striking but layered with subtle storytelling — whether it’s through styling, setting, or caption. Beauty catches attention, but depth makes it memorable.
- Your experience collaborating with global brands and participating in major fashion events is an achievement in itself. What moments in your career do you consider particularly significant, and how important is it for you to share your experience with others?
One moment that stands out was my first major fashion week — not just being there, but feeling like I had something to say. Also, receiving messages from girls saying, “You inspired me to start,” is a reminder that this job can mean something more. It’s important for me to share not just the highlights but also the journey — the uncertainty, the work behind the scenes — because that’s what makes the path real.
