With a career that combines elegance, authenticity, and international reach, Cristtina Méndonça has cemented her name in the fashion world by gracing magazine covers, walking in cities like Milan, and representing Brazil in global campaigns. A model and influencer with over 1 million followers, she is now taking a new step in her career: the launch of her own beachwear brand, inspired by the freedom and natural aesthetics of the Brazilian coast.
In an interview, Cristtina reflects on the challenges and achievements of an international career, the power of fashion as a universal language, and the role of the modern influencer in building a personal brand. “Fashion connects cultures, but what sets me apart is bringing Brazilian joy and authenticity to everything I do,” emphasizes the model, who is preparing a new phase as an entrepreneur and creator.
Cristtina, you’ve built a career that crosses borders. When did you realize that fashion could take you beyond Brazil—and what surprised you most about this international experience?
I’ve always believed fashion was a universal language, but I realized it could take me beyond Brazil when I started receiving invitations to work abroad. It was a mix of surprise and gratitude—realizing that my work could cross borders and touch people from different cultures was transformative. What surprised me most on this international journey was realizing that, despite their differences, everyone shares the same passion for expressing themselves through fashion.
Every model has a defining moment that symbolizes the beginning of everything. What was yours—that photoshoot, runway show, or meeting that changed the course of your career?
One of the most significant moments in my career was when I did the cover for Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. That represented not only recognition of my work, but also a turning point—a symbol that I was on the right track and that all the effort was worthwhile. It was a watershed moment in my career.
You’ve photographed in places like Milan and worked with international brands. How does fashion connect different cultures while also allowing you to keep your Brazilian identity alive?
Fashion has this incredible power to connect cultures. Working in places like Milan has shown me that style is a form of dialogue without borders. Even so, I always carry my Brazilian essence with me—the joy, spontaneity, and energy that are part of my identity. This is reflected in my way of working, communicating, and even interpreting fashion.
Behind the scenes, the fashion world also presents challenges. What were the biggest lessons—or even reality checks—that your international career has brought you?
The fashion world is dazzling, but also challenging. I learned a lot about resilience, self-confidence, and the importance of staying true to yourself, even in competitive environments. I did have some reality checks—especially when I realized that not everything is glamorous—but it was precisely those moments that made me grow and mature professionally.
With over 1 million followers, your profile goes beyond aesthetics—it inspires confidence and lifestyle. How do you balance your public image with your personal essence on social media?
I believe the secret to balancing public image and personal essence lies in authenticity. I share what truly reflects my life and what I believe in. My audience senses when something is genuine, and that’s what creates a true connection. I use social media as an extension of my personality—lighthearted, confident, and inspiring, but always real.
Today, being a model also means managing a personal brand. How do you see the role of the modern influencer, and how does digital marketing impact your career?
Today, the role of a model goes far beyond the catwalk. Being an influencer is, in a way, being a communicator of values, style, and purpose. Digital marketing allows me to tell my stories in a more personal and human way. I’ve learned to look at my career as a brand—and to nurture it strategically, but also with heart.
Fashion is undergoing a transformation, with more room for diversity and authenticity. What does “beauty” mean to you in this new landscape?
For me, beauty is authenticity. It’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin and celebrating what makes you unique. Fashion is increasingly open to this, and I’m happy to see that the market is valuing diverse bodies, faces, and stories. True beauty is born from confidence and self-knowledge.
What are her next steps? Can we expect new projects, collaborations, or perhaps a new side of Cristtina that the public hasn’t yet seen?
A new phase is coming for Cristtina the businesswoman! I’m launching my own beachwear brand, a project born from my love for the sea, natural aesthetics, and the freedom that fashion can offer. I’m very excited about what’s to come—I can tell you that there are big surprises coming and that this is just the beginning of a new creative journey.
Follow Cristtina Méndonça on Instagram