Odessa A'zion reveals her "DIY" approach to fashion: "multi-tasking" while doing glam and no stylists

Last year catapulted 26-year-old Odessa A'zion into the spotlight. From embodying the Gen-Z influencer Tallulah Steele in Rachel Sennott's comedy show I Love LA to starring opposite Timothée Chalamet in Josh Safdie's Marty Supreme, the California-born actress was suddenly everywhere.

This has continued into 2026, where she walked the infamous Met Gala steps for the first time (in a custom Valentino gown no less), had a cameo in Madonna's 'Confessions II' music video and became the latest face of Crocs. We caught up with the woman of the moment to discuss not working with a stylist, her favourite fashion designers and what she's got planned for the future.

How would you describe your personal style, and where do you get your inspiration from?

Honestly, I feel like I take inspiration from everyone and everything around me. No matter who it is or where I am, I love seeing people express themselves through clothing. Our bodies are our canvases, and it’s really cool to see how people use fashion to show who they are.

My roommate, for example, has incredible style and is always trying new things, which genuinely inspires me. And the other day, I saw someone at the airport wearing something I’d never seen before, and I immediately looked it up because I loved it and wanted to know more. I think inspiration comes from everywhere. Fashion is all around us, even in the airport madness!

You’ve previously worked with Stella McCartney and Harris Reed. What other London designers are you a fan of?

I’ve only recently started learning more about fashion, but I’d love to discover and wear more niche designers and hopefully work with them in the future. Of course, I’m a fan of Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen. Vivienne Westwood was all about self-expression and a rule breaker. She was so ahead of her time, back in the ’80s. So yes, I’d love to keep learning more!

You made headlines last month for choosing not to work with a stylist, as well as doing your own glam. How do you handle the pressure of getting ready for events?

Most of the time I get ready alone, usually with no music on because I need to concentrate while I’m multi-tasking doing my hair and make-up at the same time. It can be stressful, but it’s also exciting. I’ve always been a bit of a DIY person, so it just make sense to me to do it this way. I’m definitely open to trying new things and collaborating creatively with people when it comes to clothing, but I also really enjoy having creative control over myself. That feels important to me when it comes to self expression.

For sit-down or lower-key press appearances, I’m usually comfortable styling myself. For bigger carpet moments, I’m often outside of my comfort zone anyway, so I don’t mind having someone help me with that. There have definitely been times when I couldn’t find the right look – now I understand why styling is a full time job!

Why have you decided to partner with Crocs?

The main shoes I wore in elementary school were a pair of pink Crocs shoes. There are many old photos of me wearing them, I wore them all the time! I love the brand and I was so genuinely excited when I heard about this opportunity. My sister also freaked out when I told her! It felt like childhood excitement.

I also love what the brand stands for. The personalisation aspect using Jibbitz charms it’s just so fun!

Where or what makes you feel the most comfortable?

I’d love to relax which I haven’t been able to do much lately. If I were to feel comfy and cosy, I’d probably be painting, sewing, and getting to do all the things I keep putting off. I’d also be cuddling my babies (my dogs). Actually, I’d love Crocs shoes for them too!

If you were a Crocs Jibbitz Charm, what would you be and why?

It depends on the day, honestly! But today, I’d be Marvin the Martian.

What other projects are coming up for you?

I recently worked with Justine Triet on her next film, 'Fonda'. We filmed in the South of France, in a small town called Hinx, and we were there for about three months. It was unbelievably hot and there was no air conditioning, but it was such an incredible experience. Justine is one of the best, and I loved working with all the cast and all the crew. It was honestly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had on a set, being out in the middle of nowhere with such an amazing group of people.

Rebecca Jane Hill

Senior Fashion Editor

Rebecca Jane Hill is the Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She has previously contributed to publications including Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Refinery29, The Face, Glamour and Stylist. She started her own magazine, Sister, in 2012 whilst at university. Focused around feminism, fashion and culture, it went on to produce 12 globally stocked print issues, as well as countless events and partnerships. She closed the magazine in 2023.

Rebecca has been an associate lecturer at London College of Fashion since 2018, where she teaches on the Fashion Journalism course. She is a passionate second-hand shopper and is constantly on the lookout for new design talent.