Interview by Marie-Pauline Cesari

Introducing today German content creator and entrepreneur Nils Kuesel, captured by Debora Brune. Nils is one of the top male fashion and lifestyle digital talents, and last year, he won Creator with Flow at the 9th Annual MTV Millennial Awards in Mexico City. A men’s fashion and exclusive editorial for Numéro Netherlands Digital.

With such an impressive list of collaborations with luxury brands, can you share some insights into how you approach partnerships and maintain authenticity in your content?

I would say that working with all these different types of brands that have been around for a long time is obviously very challenging, but it’s important to understand that working with brands that have very much established themselves is not a monologue; it’s not only about you, and it’s not only about the brand, but it needs to be a conversation between you and the brand partner to highlight your features that match the brand’s DNA and vice versa.

Is there a dream collaboration you haven’t yet pursued, but would love to in the future?

There’s not really a dream collaboration, especially in the digital work that we will be targeting. I always dreamed of publishing a book and writing a book myself one day, not having it written for me, and it’s not supposed to be an autobiography or anything, but I want to write, or at least try to write a book and publish it, and that would be one thing I’d love to work on. Maybe not in the super near future, but it’s a project I’m looking forward to realizing, and that would be something that would really mean a lot to me.

jacket SF10G
trousers ACCEPTANCE LETTER

coat and bag PATRICK JUN ENGELMAYER

You are passionate about fashion, and we spotted you attending various fashion shows in Paris for Fashion Week. Could you share a memorable moment or a favorite fashion show that left a lasting impression on you?

I recall how, initially, I used to shy away from interviews at major fashion events. Despite my admiration for fashion, I lacked confidence in my knowledge of collections, often trying to navigate shows quickly. However, my perspective changed at a Givenchy show when I gave my first interview. I found myself confidently discussing my experiences, and in that moment, the fear dissipated. It felt like a significant milestone !

Winning an award against notable figures like Khaby Lame and Addison Rae at the MTV Millennial Awards is a significant accomplishment. How do you stay grounded amidst such recognition and competition within the digital space?

Reflecting on my career journey, I believe I’ve consistently stayed grounded. There might have been a brief period of disconnection with reality during the rapid growth phase on social media, but overall, I never lost sight of who I am. Winning an award against individuals with greater industry presence and global recognition is undoubtedly fulfilling, and I was genuinely happy about it. However, it didn’t alter my self-perception. I suppose I was pleasantly surprised by the win, but perhaps a bit lucky too!

top SF10G
trousers ACCEPTANCE LETTER

Your Christmas wish list is probably something many of your followers are curious about. Could you give us a sneak peek into what’s on your wish list this year?

My wish list isn’t very long! At the top is a vintage typewriter; there’s something enchanting about the look and sound that I find captivating for writing. Cowboy boots also made the cut because, truthfully, I don’t own any, and I believe they exude a cool vibe. Art supplies are on my radar since I’ve recently reignited my passion for painting, but my collection needs a boost. Oh, and there’s one more thing – a jersey ! After watching the David Beckham documentary, I’ve set my sights on a vintage, long-sleeved Manchester United jersey with Beckham’s name on it. That would be incredibly cool to have.

If you could offer one piece of advice to aspiring content creators and entrepreneurs, what would it be?

If someone is looking to navigate this life path, my key advice would be that consistency surpasses talent. Hard work consistently pays off, especially when you dedicate yourself over the years; that’s the key to success. Persistence and continuous hard work are the driving forces that will propel you forward. Keep at it, and success will inevitably follow !

full look HADERLUMP
bag AVENIR


talent NILS KUESEL
photography DEBORA BRUNE
styling LEONARDO AUGUSTO
fashion producer GIULIO POLVERIGIANI
photography assistant LEA BÜTEFISCH
fashion assistants IVA BARIĆ-HOES, GIULIO POLVERI & LUISA PACE
groomer FABIENNE HOPPE
grooming assistant GUERDY CASIMIR
editor TIMI LETONJA
editorial director JANA LETONJA
interview MARIE-PAULINE CESARI