Introduction

Naomi Shimada is not just a model she is a movement. A multicultural force in the fashion industry, Naomi is recognized globally for redefining beauty standards, advocating for mental wellness, and using her platform to empower others. With a career that blends modeling, media, and authorship, Naomi is a modern-day role model navigating identity, self-love, and authenticity in a digital world. Her impact reaches far beyond the runway.

Early Life and Cultural Identity

Full Name: Naomi Shimada
Date of Birth: July 13, 1987
Age: 37 (as of 2025)
Birthplace: Japan
Ethnicity: Japanese, Dutch, Irish, Canadian
Nationality: British
Height: 5 feet 9.5 inches (176.5 cm)
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Hazel

Naomi was born in Japan to a Japanese father and a European mother of mixed Dutch, Irish, and Canadian descent. She grew up in Tokyo until her early teens and then moved to southern Spain, where she completed her schooling. Exposed to multiple cultures, languages, and traditions, Naomi describes herself as a “citizen of everywhere.” Her international upbringing continues to inform her worldview and career choices.

Modeling Journey: Breaking Barriers in Fashion

Naomi began modeling at the age of 13, during a time when social media was non-existent and beauty standards were even narrower than today. In her teenage years, she faced rejection and pressure to conform to unrealistic body expectations. After a break from the industry, she re-entered modeling in her early twenties not by shrinking to fit the mold but by embracing her natural curves and individuality.

The Rise of a Curve Model

Naomi signed with Storm Management in London and began working as a curve model commonly referred to as plus-size. She quickly caught the attention of major brands and editors for her vibrant personality, unique look, and outspoken stance on body acceptance.

She has appeared in campaigns and editorials for:

• Nike
• H&M
• The Gap
• Aritzia
• ASOS
• John Lewis
• Universal Standard
• Refinery29
• Vogue
• i-D Magazine

Unlike many curve models who only work in niche fashion, Naomi was booked by major commercial and editorial names, becoming a leading face of fashion inclusivity in Europe and beyond.

A Voice for Body Positivity and Inclusion

Naomi has long challenged fashion’s rigid standards. She believes in “taking up space” and often speaks about the psychological effects of size discrimination.

“I refuse to make myself small. I wanted to take up space.”

Her interviews and TED talks are full of empowering messages about self-worth, inclusivity, and representation. Naomi also works with organizations focused on diversity in media and fashion, helping to elevate voices from underrepresented communities.

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Author: Mixed Feelings (2019)

In 2019, Naomi co-authored the groundbreaking book “Mixed Feelings: Exploring the Emotional Impact of Our Digital Habits” with the late journalist Sarah Raphael. The book explores how the internet particularly social media affects self-image, mental health, identity, and relationships.

Published by Quadrille Books, Mixed Feelings resonated deeply with millennials and Gen Z audiences, sparking critical conversations about digital wellness, anxiety, comparison culture, and online identity.

Themes Explored in the Book:

• How filters distort reality
• The pressures of social media performance
• Mental health and burnout
• Emotional labor online
• The intersection of beauty and visibility

Naomi has since spoken at events, universities, and media panels about these issues, becoming a leading voice in digital self-awareness.

Podcasting and Media Work

Naomi’s talent goes beyond modeling and writing she is also a skilled communicator and media host. She has hosted several podcasts, including:

• Beauty Fix (BBC Sounds): Exploring beauty standards and identity.
• Obsessed with Killing Eve (BBC): A deep dive into the popular TV series.
• Mixed Feelings Podcast: Extending her book’s impact through dialogue.

Naomi has also been featured in TED Talks, The Guardian, Vogue, Into The Gloss, and Semaine, sharing insights about beauty, authenticity, and mental health.

Naomi Shimada’s Fashion Philosophy

Naomi’s style is bold, colorful, and expressive. She often mixes vintage with high fashion and isn’t afraid of patterns or oversized silhouettes. Her fashion choices reflect her core belief: clothing should be joyful, liberating, and individualistic.

She believes fashion should make people feel empowered not excluded.

“Beauty should be whatever you want it to be… Don’t be judgmental. We’re all different.”

Influence on Social Media

Naomi is active on Instagram, where she shares candid thoughts, behind-the-scenes moments, and style inspiration. Unlike curated influencer profiles, her posts often touch on vulnerability, body changes, cultural identity, and mindfulness.

Her social media is not just a portfolio it’s a space for dialogue and reflection. Naomi is especially known for promoting:

• Unfiltered beauty
• Cultural representation
• Mental health awareness
• Digital detoxes

Instagram Handle: @naomishimada

Personal Life

Naomi keeps her romantic relationships private, choosing instead to share more about her friendships, family, and emotional journey. She resides in London, though she frequently travels for work and leisure.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and Japanese, she often highlights her multicultural experiences. Her free time is spent reading, meditating, attending cultural events, and supporting causes related to women’s empowerment and mental health.

Net Worth and Income Sources

Naomi Shimada’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million (as of 2025). Her diverse career has allowed her to earn through:

• Modeling contracts
• Sponsored collaborations
• Book sales
• Speaking engagements
• Podcast hosting and media appearances
• Brand ambassadorships

She’s not only a model but a creative entrepreneur shaping her brand on her own terms.

Notable Appearances & Highlights

Year	Highlight
2010s	Signed with Storm Management
2016	Featured in Observer Magazine cover
2019	Released Mixed Feelings book
2020	Hosted BBC’s Beauty Fix podcast
2021	Featured in Vogue & Refinery29 inclusivity campaigns
2023–2025	TED Talk and fashion keynote speaker worldwide

Fun Facts About Naomi Shimada

• She’s a passionate tea drinker and often shares her tea rituals online.
• Naomi loves second-hand shopping and curates vintage fashion.
• She’s vocal about how fashion should “include joy, not shame.”
• Her multicultural background has helped her model across Asia, Europe, and North America.
• Naomi’s fashion icon is her grandmother, who inspired her love for bold colors and patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How old is Naomi Shimada?

She is 37 years old, born on July 13, 1987.

Q2: What is Naomi Shimada’s book about?

Mixed Feelings explores the emotional effects of social media and digital life on self-worth, identity, and mental health.

Q3: Is Naomi Shimada a plus-size model?

She is often labeled a curve or plus-size model, though she prefers simply to be called a model who represents diversity and real bodies.

Q4: Where is Naomi Shimada based?

She lives in London, UK, but has also lived in Tokyo, Spain, and New York.

Q5: What brands has she worked with?

She has modeled for Nike, H&M, Aritzia, John Lewis, ASOS, and more.

Conclusion

Naomi Shimada is one of the most influential and multidimensional figures in modern fashion. With roots in four continents, a deep understanding of emotional wellness, and a passion for inclusivity, she is reshaping what it means to be beautiful and successful.

Her legacy is not just in pictures but in people those she inspires to live freely, speak truthfully, and celebrate themselves as they are.