Olandria Carthen, a former contestant on the reality show Love Island, recently spoke about her transformative journey from reality television to becoming a celebrated figure in the fashion industry. In an interview published with *Cosmopolitan*, Carthen identified a pivotal moment at the 2025 Video Music Awards (VMAs) as the catalyst that elevated her career.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Love-Islands-Olandria-Breakout-Moment-061926-DN--0f2ffc5cd167475b860510a70d7e94de.jpg)
Reflecting on her ascent, Carthen noted, “Fashion was one of the first things that truly set me apart from the Love Island of it all. People started to take me more seriously.” The reality star highlighted the VMAs as her official entry into the world of fashion, where she stunned in a striking red dress adorned with delicate draping and accessorised with matching opera gloves and a scarf. Her appearance at the event marked a significant milestone, as Carthen began to engage in a distinctly different conversation within the industry, moving beyond her reality television persona.
The 28-year-old’s bold fashion choices have made her a regular feature on red carpets since that significant night. For instance, at the 2026 Golden Globes, she turned heads in a vibrant green mermaid-style gown, further solidifying her status as a style icon. Carthen’s ability to navigate different fashion aesthetics has proven her versatility and commitment to her new career path.
In September 2025, Carthen made a significant leap by debuting on the runway during New York Fashion Week. She was featured in a show designed by Sergio Hudson, where she donned an eye-catching ensemble comprising an abstract-designed jacket in hues of orange, black, and nude, complemented by black mini shorts. The look was completed with a black and gold belt and strappy heels, showcasing her flair for high fashion. This appearance underscored her adaptability and ambition, traits that many believe will see her thrive in the competitive world of fashion.
Carthen’s accomplishments did not stop there; she made another notable appearance in March 2026 when she graced the pages of *Sports Illustrated Swimsuit* for that year’s issue. Alongside a roster of other rising stars, Carthen posed on the picturesque Gulf Coast beaches, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity on Instagram: “Once a dream. Now my lifestyle. Extremely grateful for this opportunity & my new Sports Illustrated family.”
The journey that Carthen has undertaken is a testament to her determination and skill, as she balances her past as a reality TV star with her aspirations in fashion. According to the interview, she believes she has a responsibility to elevate her work and leverage her platform to make impactful contributions to the industry. Carthen’s rise serves as an inspiration not just for aspiring models but also for those looking to reinvent themselves in any field.
As Olandria Carthen continues to carve out her niche in the fashion world, she remains deeply thankful for her roots, acknowledging how they have shaped her unique perspective on style and self-expression. With her continuing success and a growing list of fashion-related endeavours, the young star is undoubtedly on a path to becoming a household name beyond her origins in reality television.
Carthen’s trajectory exemplifies the possibilities that await those willing to pursue their passions, proving that with hard work, creativity, and authenticity, a significant career transformation is achievable. As she prepares for future projects, fans and followers can anticipate more stunning fashion moments as she continues to push boundaries and redefine her brand in the fashion industry.