Annabelle Kajbaf. Top, ART DRIP STUDIOS. Necklace, GATHER BK. Watch band, CHALONNE LA. Jumpsuit, DEVAN GREGORI. Belt, ALEXA STONE. Bag, ZASHADU. Boots, L’ATELIER DE CHARLOTTE.
After studying languages at Sorbonne University and journalism at Paris CFJ (Centre de Formation des Journalistes), Annabelle Kajbaf packed her suitcases and left Europe for new horizons.
From Bangkok, Tel Aviv, London, New York, and now Los Angeles, Annabelle’s work has been published across top world publications such as the Associated Press, Vogue Mexico, The Guardian, Buzzfeed, NPR, Monocle, Harper Bazaar’s Vietnam, Cosmopolitan and Glamour Magazine in Bulgaria.
Skirt, top and bomber jacket, ART DRIP STUDIOS. Tie, NANDANIE TIES. Bracelet, PAVé THE WAY. Bag, ZASHADU. Boots, L’ATELIER DE CHARLOTTE.
She writes both in English and French. She is currently a press correspondent for France’s biggest publisher Bayard Presse.
Skirt, top and bomber jacket, ART DRIP STUDIOS. Tie, NANDANIE TIES. Bracelet, PAVé THE WAY. Bag, ZASHADU. Boots, L’ATELIER DE CHARLOTTE.
Speaking of what inspired her, two main experiences overseas kicked off Annabelle’s interest in purpose-driven designers. “I really enjoyed having a daily TV segment in Israel for I24News in 2013 where I was interviewing fashion tech designers, both combining science and art,” she recalls.
Dress, LMOMO. Necklace and tiara, ANNA ZUCKERMAN.
Moving from Tel Aviv to London in 2013, her work at the Associated Press helped her understand the business of fashion. “I started covering fashion shows for the TV service of the AP, APTN, to name a few, Vivienne Westwood to Temperley during London Fashion Week. Going backstage and reporting from behind the scenes of such shows was an incredible opportunity”.
Dress, LMOMO. Necklace and tiara, ANNA ZUCKERMAN.
After a few years at the AP, Annabelle moved back home to Paris for new journalism endeavors. “Starting 2016, I was fortunate enough to explore the world of Paris fashion while being a social media manager for FashionNetwork.com, going to Dior at the Grand Palais, Haider Ackermann, Yohji Yamamoto, Agnes B, and more.” Spotted by Elle France and Grazia France, Annabelle’s broad network has been inspiring the new generation.
Dress, MAYA SEYFERTH. Necklaces, AUMARO DESIGNS. Shoes, KAIANE DESIGNS.
“Being a journalist is all about persistence. It took me ten years to create my own network. Not only did I need some self-confidence but also need building experience. You have to ignite trust and also nurture these relationships as well – which takes time. But I believe it’s also part of my legacy to share my knowledge.” Annabelle was invited as a guest journalist at Paris Social media Awards, the London General Assembly, NYC FIT, Passages in Phoenix, Talent Land in Mexico, and Lund University in Sweden.
Dress, MAYA SEYFERTH. Necklaces, AUMARO DESIGNS. Shoes, KAIANE DESIGNS.
“I am proud to say I only interview talents with a story – people who have a background in visual arts, who have a craft, and who share their skills. I always think if I can learn something while interviewing someone, so will my readership.”
Dress, LMOMO. Kaftan and shoes, KAIANE DESIGNS. Bag, ZASHADU. Belt, ALEXA STONE. Necklace, PAVé THE WAY.
Despite having a great career, Annabelle is aware that being a journalist is not a nine-to-five job. It requires excellent interpersonal skills and a relentless drive. “If I had one piece of advice to give to young readers who want to become a journalist, it is that first of all you have to be proud of yourself for having a passion and pursuing it! Always remember that what you can dream of you can achieve. Remain patient, and everything will come at the right time. Also, always remain grateful for what life has brought you.”
Dress and coat, JULIA ALLERT. Belt, ALEXA STONE. Necklace, AUMARO DESIGNS. Shoes, NORIE SHOES.
**Credits**
Model: Annabelle KAJBAF @annabellekajbaf.
Photographer: Reinhardt KENNETH @reinhardtkenneth.
Stylist: Michelle WU @michellewustyle.
H.M.U.A.: Jael SERRANO @serranostudiosla.
Photography Assistants: Matt Mendoza @matt.mendoza.media,
Pipe RAEJI @piperaeji, Avery BELSER @avery.belserHarper’s Bazaar Vietnam
