Meet our campaign model; Tia Mallia.
Join our Club Tropicana dream girl @tia_mallia, behind the scenes of our campaign shoot set on the heavenly seaside Italian Island of Ischia.
Tell us a little about yourself- who you are, where you’re from and what sets your soul on fire?
I was born in England and moved to Spain at the age of 7! I lived there for 13 years before moving back to England - or getting stuck back there in lockdown, haha! But it’s my home again now and I love it. Travel certainly sets my soul on fire! Being able to discover new countries, cultures, cuisines and history is spectacular. I feel so grateful to be able to do it for work. I highly recommend anybody to get out there as much as they can! It’s full of experiences and life changing memories and can really help you grow as a person. Aside from travel, horses are my everything. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
Tia wears the Escape Gown - Cabana
You recently shot our Club Tropicana campaign in Ischia, can you tell us how the day unfolded and your highlights from the experience?
After taking 3 taxis, 2 planes and a ferry, I made it to the idyllic Italian island - Ischia. Carlene and I had shot together 4 years prior in Australia so it was so nice to be reunited! We rose at 4am ready to start the day! The first highlight was our second shot of the day. We walked down this tiny street to get some photos and it was almost as if the scene had been set up for us, or we were intruding on a movie set haha! But nope, it was just Italy being Italy! So off I posed with my baguette! We then drove to this stunning house, or castle I should say, overlooking the coast. We got some shots inside the pool which was certainly a highlight at the time as it was a scorching hot day! After this, we went to an outdoor thermal pool spa to get the final shots, I’d never seen anything like it - it felt like something from the 60’s. Major mood!!
Tia wears the Escape Gown - Oceania
Which piece from the collection can you see yourself living in the most?
It would have to be the Calypso Jumpsuit - I’m an island girl at heart so I adore the tropo vibes this piece gives!!
Do you have any recommendations for things to do and see when holidaying in the Mediterranean?
Without a doubt, I would have to recommend island hopping in Greece - each island is so different and the food is to die for. I also love road tripping from North to South Italy. Every part of Italy is so stunning (do not miss Rome, every street you turn down you’ll be gobsmacked!). And of course visit Spain - the Balearic Islands are a hidden gem!
Tia wears the Calypso Jumpsuit - Barbados
Favourite Italian dish?
Parmigiana, pasta or pizza with truffle oil, mmmm! But it has to be a thick base pizza, I love anything doughy. Or my all time favourite, croissant - sfogliatella!!
How did you get into modelling and do you have any tips or tricks for gals trying to get into the fashion industry?
I was scouted when I was 8 years old! Somebody stopped my mum on the street and the rest is history! Always be yourself, personality shines over anything. It’s a competitive industry, you aren’t going to be everybody’s taste but you will be somebody’s! Never give up and don’t take any negative comments to heart. You have to have thick skin.
How would you describe your personal style?
Boyish, comfort is key! You’ll often find me in baggy trousers or cargos, a crop top and either some trainers or heeled boots! I love Bella Hadid or Hailey Bieber’s style.
Can you describe a typical day in the life of Tia Mallia?
I wish I could tell you! Every day is different - my friends and family can’t keep up with me. I travel a lot for work so I’m constantly on the go. I never know where I’ll be next, which I guess is a positive and a negative! When I’m not working, I love being outdoors surrounded by nature and animals as much as possible, lots of yummy food (I’m a huge foodie) and spending time with friends and family!
Tia wears the Sunkissed Dress - Barbados and the Bonita Blouse + Isla Wrap Skirt - Cabana
You’re constantly traveling for work, which destination has been your favourite so far and why?
My favourite continent has to be Africa. Each country is SO different yet so magical. From the deserts and riads in Morocco, the pyramids and hieroglyphics in Egypt, the Masai migration in Kenya and the pristine white beaches in Zanzibar. Africa truly has my heart.
What’s next for Tia Mallia?
I’m currently writing this whilst on a plane to Zimbabwe! I’ll be there for 2 weeks volunteering at a horse stable. Hopefully I’ll get to do some community work whilst I’m there also! I aim to volunteer as much as I can and book time off work especially.
