Maia Mitchell on making it in the world of acting and the fear of being overdressed

October 9, 2017

Author: Danielk Cedeno

With an Instagram following of 3.8 million, the lead role on US ABC TV drama, The Fosters, and a new home grown tees campaign for Bonds on her resume, it’s safe to say Maia Mitchell is already a household name.

Which is why we thought to time was ripe to catch up with the actress to talk hustling, career advice and beauty.

What does it mean to be tapped as the face of Bonds?

"I'm so excited to be associated with such an iconic and classic Australian brand. Living overseas, I'm constantly looking for ways to keep myself connected to home and keep my roots in Australia, and joining the Bonds family feels like the perfect opportunity to do that."

What's your current beauty routine and what three products can't you live without?

"I recently ran into a lot of skin sensitivities. Before that, I had a very strict skin care routine which involved a lot of different products. Now, even things like toners and primers spark up my allergies so I keep it very simple. Kiehl’s sensitive skin cleanser and moisturizser are the best products I'm using right now."

What the best beauty advice you've ever received?

"My mum always encouraged me that less is more, make-up wise. I think that's why I feel more confident when I have a fresh and natural face."

How would you describe your personal style?

"Very casual. My everyday life uniform is an oversized t-shirt or tank top with mum jeans and slides or sneakers. If I'm going out I'll wear jeans and heels or a dress and sneakers. I have a general fear of being overdressed."

What are your favourite things to do in Australian when you’re back home?

"Usually my first stop is the pub, for chips and gravy. My hometown, Lismore, has an amazing car boot market on Sundays so I'll usually try to fit that in. It's also a very small community so the market is a pretty safe bet I'll run into friends from school, which is always cool."

What's the best career advice you've ever received?

"I have a very clear idea of what kind of career I want and the choices I need to make to get there. There's been certain opportunities that have arisen that would have been financially quite advantageous but creatively, would have steered me away from my career plan. My mum always reminds me to trust my instincts. If a project doesn't feel right and doesn't excite me, it's likely it won't help me to get to where I want to be."

For girls wanting to get into acting what advice do you have?

"I'm going to be very real. It's hard, it's competitive and when it happens, it can also be quite lonely and isolating, so you have to really love it. I say this because you have to give everything to the hustle. Auditions, meetings, training have to be your first priority and if that excites you then go for it because it is totally possible!"