From Kazakhstan to London, from TikTok to Valentino, Janelle Zharmenova is rewriting the rules of modern glamour. With a timeless aesthetic and a radically authentic voice, she transforms dreams into legacy—one brushstroke at a time.
When Janelle Zharmenova speaks about glamour, she does so with conviction. It’s not just a style—it’s a part of who she is. “I grew up watching old Hollywood films, and they really shaped my love for that aesthetic. You can make it your own, but at the end of the day, it’s a timeless look that makes me feel confident and bold. I hope others feel the same when they try it.”
Her makeup tutorials are a masterclass in balance: elevated yet relatable, elegant but never out of reach. “I’ve been on social media since I was ten, watching creators and learning. While it’s fun to see people live these unreal lives, I’ve realised it can also create a wall between creator and viewer. So I try to be less curated, more authentic. I always ask myself what I’d want to see—and I create from that perspective.”
That honesty has become her signature, and it’s helped forge relationships with legendary brands like YSL Beauty, Armani Beauty, Lancôme, Valentino, and Swarovski. “It was a dream from the very beginning. It seemed impossible at first. But I kept showing up, doing my best, and showing my love for these brands without expecting anything. I think that’s why it worked out.”
When she received invitations to attend prestigious events like Cannes, Venice, and the Monaco Grand Prix, Janelle found herself living what she once wrote down in a journal. “If you saw my old journals, you’d be shocked at how much I dreamed about this. I’ll never get used to it. I approach each experience with immense gratitude. It’s definitely stressful, but I’ve learned to enjoy every second without putting too much pressure on myself.”
Despite the polished image, Janelle is transparent about the struggles. “Social media is a highlight reel. People think you’re breezing through life, but that’s not the case. I’m constantly learning, messing up, starting over. I hope people see that and feel like they’re growing with me.”
“If a girl from Kazakhstan can build her dream life—so can you.”
Janelle Zharmenova
Her turning point came when she was working as a care assistant and hit 300k followers on TikTok. “I remember making £50 from the creator fund and thinking I was rich. Then a social media agency reached out to help with brand deals. Suddenly, I was earning more from one post than a whole month of 60-hour shifts. That’s when I knew it was time to take it seriously. Six months later, I moved to London. I haven’t needed another job since. It’s surreal.”
Still, her ambitions don’t end there. Acting is high on her list—but she’s taking a mindful approach. “Working in film has always been a dream. But acting requires complete commitment, and right now I’m focusing on what’s in front of me. When I feel ready, I’ll give it my all.”
In fashion, she gravitates toward timeless visionaries: “I love Yves Saint Laurent, Céline, Givenchy and Tom Ford. Their work is classic without being boring. They stay true to themselves while constantly evolving. That’s the creative process I want to emulate.”
Being front row at shows like Dolce & Gabbana or Louboutin has deepened her appreciation. “The amount of work behind the scenes is immense. I’m just honoured to be in those rooms. It’s a tough industry, and I have so much respect for everyone in it.”
Even so, the journey isn’t without its mental hurdles. “Insecurity and self-doubt creep in. It’s hard not to compare yourself. But I’ve learnt to recognise those thoughts and not let them control me. I try to be kinder to myself. That helps.”
Of all her achievements, one stands out: “Being able to support my friends and family financially makes everything worth it. I’ve never cared much for material things—but helping the people I love keeps me going.”
As for dream collaborations? She’s more curious than star-struck. “There isn’t one person in particular. I’d love to interview actors, directors, CEOs—even other influencers. Hearing people’s stories inspires me.”
And if she could leave her audience with just one message? “I want every young girl to know she’s allowed to dream big. Even if her current situation feels impossible. If a girl from Kazakhstan can build her dream life—so can you.”
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