Magical Moments

Travel blogger and dancer, Nina Okhotina, is also the founder of the clothing brand, The Dress Stories. Her fl owy, one-tone dresses add a touch of magic to her Instagram pictures from her Indian trips. The Russia-born social-media star reminisces about her time in India and the people that made it special.

- ADILA MATRA

Q. Tell us about yourself. What is the story behind your Instagram account?

I’m a creative person and Instagram is how I share things that inspire me: photography, travelling, fashion, music, and dancing. I started blogging in 2011, and later switched over to Instagram (@ninelly_). I’m also an IT specialist and a choreographer at Moscow State University.

Q. How did you come up with #MyDressStories?

I really wanted to create something unique, new, and inspiring, rather than regular travel pics. So one day, I took one of my dancing costumes—a big, red, flowy skirt—to Venice, and created my first ‘MyDressStories’ picture. I liked what I managed to create so much that I decided to continue taking creative photos while travelling. I mostly wear dresses I have designed or combine them with other clothes, hats, and accessories. After a few years, I decided to create my own brand—The Dress Stories—with flowy dresses that are very comfortable to wear and perfect for travel photos. For my Indian trip, I made a few dresses and tried to design accessories, scarves, and belts inspired by India’s traditional costumes.