“Beauty,” Graciela Ayala says, “is about being unapologetically yourself, inside and out.” For Graciela, fashion is not just about keeping up with trends—it’s about expressing your essence and embracing what makes you unique. Through her blog, Style Gracie, and her Instagram account, @gracielayalao, she encourages women to take control of their narratives and to use fashion as an instrument of confidence and self-expression. She champions the idea that women should have fun with fashion, break traditional beauty standards, and create their own kind of beautiful. With her view and confidence, the social activist with a doctorate in medicine has cemented her reputation as a Latina you must watch.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam (HBZVN): How would you describe your personal style, and what influences have shaped it throughout your career?
GRACIELA AYALA: I would describe my style as both unique and classic, blending old and new trends. It’s eclectic, always finding new ways to style clothing. When I was growing up, fashion magazines, TV, music videos, red carpets, and editorials were major influences on me and my sister. My family also worked in pattern making in downtown LA, which was my first introduction to the fashion business, designers, brands, and the design process that goes into every piece of clothing.
Growing up, we had access to many samples but operated on a limited budget, so I became creative with vintage and second-hand clothing. Thanks to those experiences, I now have the chance to not only choose the brands I buy but also influence which brands go on to succeed.
Designers like Andrea Ayala, who is a close friend of mine, have had a huge influence on my life. I’ve worn her designs during key moments, like my wedding. Other big influences have been brands like Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta—Latino designers who have made it on the global stage.
HBZVN. As someone who has broken boundaries in both fashion and medicine, what is your perspective on the evolving standards of women’s beauty, and how do you think fashion can empower women to feel more confident?
GRACIELA AYALA: I believe beauty is about being unique and unapologetically yourself, inside and out. I encourage every woman to view fashion as a tool for success and happiness. It’s not about following trends; it’s about expressing your true essence—that’s when you truly shine.
Every woman should have fun with fashion, break conventional beauty standards, and create her own version of beauty.
HBZVN. What do you consider the key achievements or milestones that have contributed to the success and influence of your blog, Style Gracie, in the fashion world?
GRACIELA AYALA: The most significant moments for me have been when my peers or major fashion publications have recognized my work and my true influence, which goes beyond numbers. It’s about making a real impact on women, hearing their stories, and seeing the power women have in the fashion industry. That has been truly inspiring for me.
Graciela Ayala has carved out a unique space for herself, not only as a celebrated fashion and lifestyle blogger but also as an influential voice across multiple industries. With ongoing projects in fashion publications and campaigns, Graciela is currently entering the next exciting phase of her career.
Photographers: Marta Acosta, Jessica Díaz , Kevin Leon
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
