Today we’d like to introduce you to Carissa Achane.
carissa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
As long as I can remember, I’ve always loved fashion, bold colors, and anything pink. I’ve always found joy in expressing myself through clothes, hair, and makeup. Even as a little girl, I loved putting outfits together and dreaming about fashion and beauty.
As I got older, that passion evolved into creating content. What started as sharing affordable fashion and thrift finds grew into Thriftingwitdiva and eventually expanded into Darque Beauty, where I share beauty, hair, lifestyle, and everyday moments. Along the way, I’ve had opportunities to work with brands, receive gifted products, and connect with an amazing online community.
Today, I’m continuing to grow while staying true to myself. Whether I’m sharing a thrift haul, a wig review, or simply showing the reality of everyday life, I want people to know they can embrace their own style and confidence without feeling like they have to be perfect.
At 38, I truly believe the little girl and even the twenty something year old Carissa is smiling. I’m grateful for the journey, and I’m excited to see where it leads next.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
To say everything has been smooth would be unrealistic. I have definitely doubted my journey at times, and honestly, the biggest struggle has been doubting my own potential.
Like many people, I’ve experienced multiple job layoffs, financial challenges, and car issues that prevented me from attending networking events or creating the type of content I wanted to create. I’ve also had to learn to tune out other people’s opinions about how I should post my content, whether it was about video quality, following trends, or creating content that simply didn’t align with who I am.
Over time, I’ve realized that staying authentic is more important than chasing every trend. My journey hasn’t been perfect, but every challenge has helped shape who I am today. I truly believe that what’s meant for me will find me as long as I continue to stay consistent, keep growing, and trust God’s timing.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My content journey started over 12 years ago while I was attending Texas Southern University. At the time, I needed business casual clothes for mock interviews, presentations, and class projects, so I began thrifting to build a wardrobe on a college budget. I quickly realized you don’t have to spend a fortune to look polished and confident.
In 2020, I started sharing my thrift haul try-ons on TikTok and Instagram, and that’s how Thriftingwitdiva was born. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to go viral multiple times, including one TikTok video that reached over 10 million views. Those moments opened the door to brand partnerships and also helped me grow Darque Beauty, where I share wig reviews, hair tutorials, beauty content, and lifestyle vlogs. Through those platforms, I’ve had the opportunity to receive gifted products and collaborate with brands.
What sets me apart is my authenticity. Whether I’m fully dressed up or having an everyday kind of day, I’m not afraid to show up as myself. I want people to know that life isn’t always picture-perfect, and that’s okay. My goal is to inspire others to embrace affordable style, confidence, and authenticity while reminding them that you don’t have to break the bank to look and feel your best.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Absolutely. I enjoy listening to Tony Gaskins’ podcast and YouTube channel, and I also enjoy listening to my pastor. They both keep me grounded, challenged, and encouraged. I also love listening to R.C. Blakes on YouTube because his messages on faith, purpose, and relationships have been impactful.
Above all, God is the center of my life. He’s the first person I turn to for wisdom, direction, and strength in every area of my life.
When it comes to personal inspiration, I have to mention my mom. She has shown me what true strength, perseverance, and resilience look like. Watching her never give up has taught me to keep moving forward, no matter what challenges come my way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriftingwitdiva?igsh=MWVzeGJzaGM2dXg5Yw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BT5hcL8Hh/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thriftingwitdiva?si=4MCaYU0aMPmPTXgH
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/darque_beauty12?igsh=NnpkZm00NnFzcDJ4&utm_source=qr
