From The Archives: Claudia Sulewski On Building Her Dream Wardrobe, A Career on Social Media, and Becoming A Beauty Founder with Cyklar

Summary

Podcast Summary: Let's Get Dressed
Episode: From The Archives: Claudia Sulewski On Building Her Dream Wardrobe, A Career on Social Media, and Becoming A Beauty Founder with Cyklar
Release Date: August 11, 2025

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Introduction

In this archived episode of "Let's Get Dressed," host Liv Perez welcomes the multifaceted Claudia Sulewski—a renowned social media influencer, actress, and the founder of the body care line Cyklar. The conversation delves deep into Claudia's journey in fashion, her rise on social media, her collaborations with top stylists, and her venture into the beauty industry.

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Claudia's Personal Style and Wardrobe

Claudia opens up about her evolving personal style, emphasizing her shift towards investing in high-quality basics over trendy pieces. She shares insights into her daily dressing ethos, highlighting the balance between comfort and style.

Claudia Sulewski [06:01]:
"I really just want to be investing in, like, good quality basics and just good quality clothing that, like, I can imagine myself wearing a million times..."

Claudia discusses her preference for low waist jeans for comfort and current trends, comparing them to the restrictive high-waisted styles of the past.

Claudia Sulewski [07:06]:
"I’m always wearing, like, low waist jeans. They just are more comfortable... this is comfort."

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Collaborating with Jared Elner

A significant part of Claudia's style evolution is her collaboration with fashion stylist Jared Elner. Together, they craft outfits that balance feminine, timeless pieces with edgy accessories, creating a signature look that stands out.

Claudia Sulewski [14:03]:
"He really understands how everything is supposed to sit on a body... it's a different version of getting dressed."

Claudia recounts specific looks they've created, such as the Erdem vintage Versace Moschino ensemble for the Academy Museum, which perfectly encapsulates her style blending classic and bold elements.

Claudia Sulewski [15:48]:
"How it came together was really quintessential me... it was so beautiful."

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Matching Styles with Her Partner

Claudia and her partner Finneas share a humorous yet stylish rapport when it comes to their wardrobes. While they occasionally end up matching inadvertently, Claudia enjoys borrowing pieces from Finneas's menswear collection to add uniqueness to her outfits.

Claudia Sulewski [19:57]:
"I'm always stealing Alex's, like, Prada button-down or like, things like that that I just love and feel."

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Career on YouTube and Social Media

Starting her YouTube journey at the young age of 13, Claudia has amassed a substantial following by consistently producing high-quality, creatively edited content. She discusses the challenges and rewards of maintaining authenticity while navigating the fast-paced world of social media.

Claudia Sulewski [20:04]:
"I just love to be inspired by... pulling songs that inspire something for me."

Claudia also touches upon her recent shift to monthly vlogs, allowing her to capture and share more authentic moments without the pressure of constant content creation.

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Pivoting Careers and Building a Brand

Transitioning from content creation to entrepreneurship, Claudia shares her thoughtful approach to building her brand. She emphasizes the importance of taking a slow and steady path to ensure authenticity and sustainability.

Claudia Sulewski [27:48]:
"I have never rushed into things too quickly... making sure that I take different types of classes for a really long time."

Claudia reflects on the stereotypes associated with YouTubers moving into traditional media and acting, advocating for patience and genuine passion in navigating these transitions.

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The Launch of Cyclor: A Body Care Line

Claudia introduces Cyklar, her body care line, detailing the inspiration and development behind its signature scent, Crescent. She explains the fragrance’s multi-layered composition, blending woodsy, floral, and citrus notes to create a fresh and sophisticated aroma.

Claudia Sulewski [35:45]:
"It has a little bit of everything in it... it's a jumbled concoction, but I think it was really important for me to set a tone with that first fragrance."

Cyklar aims to offer a gender-neutral brand that emphasizes high-quality, skin-focused ingredients, positioning itself uniquely in the saturated beauty market.

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Future Plans and Investments

Looking ahead, Claudia shares exciting news about recent investments from prominent beauty investors like Make Beauty and Fleur. She expresses enthusiasm about the future growth of Cyklar and the collaborative efforts that will drive the brand forward.

Claudia Sulewski [40:43]:
"We have major news investment from the center... so much to come."

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Conclusion

This episode provides an in-depth look into Claudia Sulewski's journey as a style icon, social media influencer, and entrepreneur. Her commitment to authenticity, quality, and creative expression serves as an inspiring blueprint for aspiring fashion enthusiasts and brand builders alike.

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Notable Quotes:

• Claudia Sulewski [06:01]:
  "I really just want to be investing in, like, good quality basics and just good quality clothing that, like, I can imagine myself wearing a million times..."

• Claudia Sulewski [27:48]:
  "I have never rushed into things too quickly... making sure that I take different types of classes for a really long time."

• Claudia Sulewski [35:45]:
  "It has a little bit of everything in it... it's a jumbled concoction, but I think it was really important for me to set a tone with that first fragrance."

---

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of Claudia Sulewski's insights on fashion, social media careers, and entrepreneurial ventures, providing valuable takeaways for listeners and readers alike.

Transcript

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[Liv Perez]

Hi everyone, welcome back to another episode of let's Get Dressed. It's your host, Lib Perez. I am currently on a much deserved summer holiday, but don't worry, I'm not leaving you guys hanging out. Some of the best fashion lives in the archives and the same goes for podcasts. So over the next few weeks I'll be re airing some of my favorite past episodes and I hope you guys enjoy. Hey guys, welcome back to another episode of let's Get Dressed. It's your host, Liv Perez. Today's guest is the one and only Claudia Saluski. She's what I like to call a modern day triple threat. She's a social media darling, she's an actress, and she's the founder of the body care line SP Cyclo, which I have to tell you guys is my new favorite thing on planet Earth. I don't know about you guys, but I was never really like a body moisturizer girly. Claudia sent me cyclor. I opened the bottle and I swear to God I felt like I was in one of those fragrance commercials. Like elevated out of my body into the sky into the heavens. It smells so good and it's honestly such a luxurious experience to put it on. I have loved adding it into my routine and it's become like that time every day that just kind of feels like me time. So I'm a huge fan of cyclar I love what she's doing with the brand, but to top all of it off, she has absolutely killer style. From wearing archival Versace down the red carpet to attending the Prada show in Milan, Claudia has been documenting her life and looks online since the age of 13, and she's truly built a cult following on Instagram and YouTube. If any of you listening right now are major YouTube people and you haven't checked out her channel, you have to. I was seriously so blown away watching her videos, her skill in editing, her vision. It's just. Just an entire world that I love to spend time in. In today's episode, Claudia takes us inside her closet to share her best style tips, favorite new designers, and a peek inside her creative process with one of my favorite fashion stylists, Jared Elner. We also talk about what it takes to build a brand online, the re rise of YouTube, and of course, her next chapter beauty founder. I hope you guys love today's episode. If you have a chance, before you start listening, make sure you go leave us a review in the Apple podcast page. It really helps the show grow. Now let's go get dressed with Claudia Saluski. Welcome to let's get dressed. I'm so happy to be here. I'm so excited to have you on. I've been like, you know, I've been like, prying for months. I'm like, when is she free? I've been wanting you on for so long because I'm such a fan of everything you do. So I'm thrilled to have you here.

[Claudia Saluski]

Thank you very much. Oh, my gosh. I'm so honored.

[Liv Perez]

Newly blonde, too.

[Claudia Saluski]

Newly blonde. We were just talking about this. I've been. I started maybe like six months ago and haven't been blonde from properly since high school. I used to bleach my own hair with, like, those hooking. What are they called? Like the. You put on a cap and you literally, like, hook your hair through and then you just bleach every box. Box bleach. Yes, girl. Wow. I used to do this in high school. I dyed my hair every color, so it's very exciting to get to redo that. But in a massively professional.

[Liv Perez]

Yes. We both go to the iconic Matt Rez, who, like, really knows what he's doing. I feel like every time I see him, I'm in like, Dexter's lab.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yes.

[Liv Perez]

Because he's like, mixing things and it's like a.

[Claudia Saluski]

It's a whole language. He's like 4 ounces of the 10 to 1 mixed in with the blah, blah, blah. Like, it's.

[Liv Perez]

It's crazy.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah.

[Liv Perez]

And that's why he's the best.

[Claudia Saluski]

I was just in his chair yesterday. We're. We're blonder than ever.

[Liv Perez]

I always do, of course. Like a little insta every social media stock before someone comes on the pod. And I swear, I have not wanted to be blonde. For those who don't know, I was born naturally blonde. I was like towhead blonde, like, bright blonde. And then as I got older, it got a little sandy blonde, which apparently is a very natural thing to happen with hormones. And then I dyed it brown. Then I was like, somewhere in between. And now I've, like, been in brunette for a long time.

[Claudia Saluski]

The brunette looks so natural on you. It's like, oh, but. But I'd love to see blonde.

[Liv Perez]

Well, you. Last night, I was like, literally looking through all of your content before we do this episode. And I was like, she's making me want to be blonde. Oh, I know. I've not had this desire in, like, years. And I was like, oh, my God.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, my God.

[Liv Perez]

I also think blondes. It's all about your eye color.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah. Yeah, definitely.

[Liv Perez]

Yeah.

[Claudia Saluski]

Matt was saying that yesterday where, like, we've been slowly, gradually kind of lightening it up, and he was like, I think this is the lightest we should go because it's. I'm having it match with your eyes scientist. Yeah, I just left it at that. I didn't ask any other questions. I was like, okay, Yes.

[Liv Perez]

I love hearing how really intentional you are with the way you get dressed. I feel like you are probably almost on par with Matt in terms of science, but I want to hear how you are getting dressed every day. It's a question we love to kick off this pod with is kind of, what's your ethos? What's in your mind as you're, like, going in your closet every day to get dressed.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah. I think I feel like I've had, like, a real style switch in the last couple years. I kind of went through, like, that quintessential closet clean out, where you reach an age and a point in your life where you realize, like, oh, I really just want to be investing in, like, good quality basics and just good quality clothing that, like, I can imagine myself wearing a million times and sort of, like, shedding off the kind of trendier pieces that you, like, pick up along the way that maybe don't totally feel like you, but, like, you buy them because, whatever, they're hot in the moment, you know? And I feel like in terms of, like, my everyday, what I'm wearing, I definitely. There is like a difference between, like, if I'm leaving the house or if I'm not. Right? Like, if I'm not leaving the house. But I still want to get dressed to, like, feel good about myself. Like, it will just be like Levi's jeans and like, you know, a loose T shirt. I'm always wearing, like, low waist jeans. They just are more comfortable. Obviously. They're super popular right now. Just sort of like that style and silhouette. The kind of low rise.

[Liv Perez]

I know, but let's be real, like, a high waist at home is not okay.

[Claudia Saluski]

It's too tight.

[Liv Perez]

It's not okay. It's not okay.

[Claudia Saluski]

You know what, it's so interesting. I feel like when the, when the like, low rise came back, everyone sort of like not everyone, but a lot.

[Liv Perez]

Of us realized that we've been corseting ourselves for 10 years.

[Claudia Saluski]

But I also felt like there was a negative backlash that was like, oh, no, we are not bringing back the early 2000s, blah, blah, blah. And I'm like, y', all, this is comfort.

[Liv Perez]

This is comfort.

[Claudia Saluski]

I just, like, I think about all the dinners that I've had where like the top button, like halfway through dinner, you're having to undo it and it's.

[Liv Perez]

Digging into my internal organs. Yes, yes.

[Claudia Saluski]

Okay. So we're low rising these days, you know what I mean? But in terms of going out, I feel like it is definitely my approach with, like, my style. I, like, reach for a few things. I think at this point now I'm really understanding, like, the shapes that look good on my frame, you know, so oftentimes it'll be, oh, yep, I'm wearing right now, like a higher neckline, for example, and just kind of understanding, like also the science behind an outfit and the balance of an outfit, whether that means mixing up different materials, whether something is matte or shiny or something is looser. And so we're gonna, you know, something's loose from the bottom, so we do like a tighter top, whatever. Like, I'm really enjoying playing around with sort of like the balance of that. And then in terms of like, my personal style, I have found to really be gravitating towards, like, feminine, timeless pieces. But then edging it up with my accessories and my bags and my shoes. And I don't even know if today's like a good example of it because I was running out the door and so, like, I kind of wish I was wearing a giant silver cuff right now. And like, maybe like More interesting earrings or something. But, like, I've. This is so simple to say, but I've been loving, like, putting together an outfit and being like, okay, is this gonna be a gold outfit, a silver outfit, or a mixed metal outfit? And, like, kind of going crazy with, like, the rings, the bracelets, you know.

[Liv Perez]

Like, for you, top of mind is jewelry.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah. Randomly.

[Liv Perez]

No. I love that Hardware was going to say as you were talking about earrings, I was like, oh, girl, earrings come for me last a lot of the time. Like, earrings for me are like that bag switch that. It's like, which one should I wear? I just, like, it's an afterthought for me. That's cool that that's your, like, M.O. from the start.

[Claudia Saluski]

One of my, like, recent fits that I was really proud of and just felt I felt very myself in it was for New Year's Eve. I wore, like, a very simp, sleek, like, black outfit. It was just, like, a tight shirt, a black skirt, black boots. But I had these giant Simon Miller, like, silver ball drop earrings. I love those. That just kind of like, hang at your jawline. And they kind of looked like I wore them because I just thought, like, the ball's dropping. I'm gonna wear balls with, like, a cheetah print coat as, like, the wild card in the outfit.

[Liv Perez]

Love theme.

[Claudia Saluski]

But it was like, it was the earrings that, like, led me to that outfit, if that makes sense.

[Liv Perez]

Yeah, I love that. Really interesting. And something I've been trying to get into a little bit more is my jewelry world. And I feel like you are someone who every time I see you on Instagram, I'm like, okay, she's wearing something cool and different, and I'm intrigued. Do you have any designers right now that you're, like, loving eyeing need in your closet? Maybe you just got in your closet. Something that's just top of mind for you.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, my gosh. I'm trying to think. I mean, I definitely. I feel like I'm saying this as a collective. This isn't revolutionary at all. But I'm, like, so inspired by Miu Miu and sort of, like, the office chic, sexy kind of energy that I feel like they poured into these last few years. Do you know what I mean?

[Liv Perez]

Totally. I also feel like, from what you were, first of all, your outfit is very mew mew.

[Claudia Saluski]

It is definitely giving me today.

[Liv Perez]

But also in so many things you just brought up, whether it's, like, wanting to be home and be comfortable, but also this, like, feminine classic where the accessories are the Thing that's speaking, like, their most recent show, the clothes were quintessential everyday workwear, but the accessories were, like, wild. Like, giant gloves that, like, went up to the top of your arm, gorgeous pearl necklaces. Like, it feels. I understand why it resonates with you.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah, I feel like. I don't know. So that's sort of like the uniform and, like, formula I've been playing around with because it's just been rewarding in that I feel like I've been investing in pieces that I do continue to be excited about wearing. And if the thing that I'm switching out is, like, what sort of bag, is it gonna be more of, like, a boho style bag, or is it gonna be more of, like an edgy kind of going out night bag? You know what I mean? Like, I think, yeah, sort of like this wave of chic office wear, you know, like, whether it's like the trench or, you know, suit pants, I'm all for it. I feel like it's very classic and I'm. I jumped on that. It's weird to say it's a trend because it is so classic and timeless and I don't think it'll ever be out of style, but I just feel like our society just, like, has embraced it.

[Liv Perez]

Yeah, definitely.

[Claudia Saluski]

Intensely.

[Liv Perez]

Definitely.

[Claudia Saluski]

And I am definitely guilty of that as well. And, like, so stoked to be, like, sitting in this pocket and enjoying those sorts of pieces and. And I. So, yeah, I think it's fun to like, take something that maybe traditionally is like a daytime outfit and how do we edge it up and make it look a bit sexier and a bit edgier, you know what I mean?

[Liv Perez]

All in the accessories.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah. I really feel like styling and choosing your outfits, it really is emotional.

[Liv Perez]

Definitely.

[Claudia Saluski]

It completely alters how you feel about yourself and the rest of your day and how you carry yourself and, like, makes such a difference. This is sort of now also playing into, like, sometimes I'll see this on TikTok or just like a little quote about it or something. But you know how we as humans always feel the nerds, to save the bougie candle for the right moment when someone you want to impress is at your house, you know, and it's like, I like the idea of, like, just burn the candle. Burn it for yourself. And I feel that way about clothing.

[Liv Perez]

Yeah.

[Claudia Saluski]

You know, I, like, a few months ago, thrifted, like, a white shirt from the Row, so it was still very expensive because it's the Row. But, like, for a while I was so scared to wear it because I. It's a white shirt, you know, risky. I just. I'm also getting over that as well. Just like, okay, you're buying these high quality pieces to wear them. You know what I mean? And for you, they will last. And you do it for you. And I think that's a big thing as well. It's emotional.

[Liv Perez]

You work with Jared Elner, who's one of my favorite people on planet Earth. I love him so much and I love his brain. I just want to be a flower on the wall inside of his brain and, like, see what that's like.

[Claudia Saluski]

I know.

[Liv Perez]

And you guys have created so many moments together that just every time I see you on the carpet, I'm like, yep, nailed it.

[Claudia Saluski]

Thank you.

[Liv Perez]

Erdem vintage Versace Moschino. Like, I'm always like, this is right.

[Claudia Saluski]

I know. He's so good.

[Liv Perez]

He's so good.

[Claudia Saluski]

He really, like, the thing I appreciate. There's so many things I appreciate about him, one of them being he is really looking at the entire look. He is very involved with helping choose the makeup, the hair, knowing how that interacts with an outfit, creating mood boards. And like, he certainly also has really helped me to like, embrace styles that maybe I would have been a little bit too nervous to wear. We recently wore. I recently wore this, like, Givenchy blue, very see through, so good dress. And like, we. We added some layers underneath so that it wouldn't be too nippily. Just like the right amount of nipple.

[Liv Perez]

Cause there's the right amount of nipple, guys. Right amount.

[Claudia Saluski]

It was a very, very see through dress. And I remember initially for that one, I was. I love, like, thick, structured material. And I. That was like, kind of my note. I was like, I was like, can you pull some pieces that just kind of have like, thick structure to them? That's what I'm feeling. And he did, and he was like, but also this. And of course, it's the one we end up going with. And I think that's. It's really fun to have someone that you can really, like, collaborate with and try different things. And yes, he is such a genius. And like, he really just understood. Understands how everything is supposed to sit on a body, if that makes sense. Like, we are going in and we are like, deconstructing. We are. You know what I mean? Like, it's fun. It's such a different version of getting dressed. It's very different from, like, day to day.

[Liv Perez]

I mean, it's a science. And I think the collaborative aspect of it really shines through. I think one of my favorite looks was the erdem look that you wore to the Academy museum. How did that come together? Because that feels so quintessential you.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, my gosh.

[Liv Perez]

Loves the, like, exposed kind of bra moment. It was so beautiful. Did you do your own hair and makeup for that?

[Claudia Saluski]

I did.

[Liv Perez]

I remember you posting that being, like, iconic. Like, I was like, I. I was so impressed.

[Claudia Saluski]

Thank you. Thank you. There is a part of me that is very low maintenance and maybe also just, like, stubborn where sometimes I don't even know. I think I just, like, I think I knew what sort of hair and makeup I wanted to do for that look, and I thought, I want. I can do that.

[Liv Perez]

It's the slick button. It really gets. Yeah. If it's a slick back button, I'm like, fudge it. I'll do it myself.

[Claudia Saluski]

Exactly.

[Liv Perez]

And then from behind, you'll see like a thousand pins and clips. And I'm like, it's all good, guys.

[Claudia Saluski]

It's fine. It's fine.

[Liv Perez]

You guys don't care about them.

[Claudia Saluski]

From the back, we're getting three quarter. We're getting front, front of the face. And in that case, it really worked out. Here's the thing is, like, I really enjoy doing my hair and makeup. Sometimes it is not the most reliable. Like, I just, I don't know.

[Liv Perez]

Some days the wing doesn't exactly. You get it. Some days the wing just doesn't work.

[Claudia Saluski]

Makeup artists know how to avoid and should know. I don't know how to. So I really. I was just crossing my damn fingers that night.

[Liv Perez]

I mean, you looked beautiful. Like, it really all came together so.

[Claudia Saluski]

Beautifully, but it really came together so last minute. Like, I think our fitting was like, a couple days before, and it fit great. We didn't have to alter anything. And then it was so last minute to the point where like, literally, like, on the day as I'm getting dressed for the event, he had sent over like, maybe four different gloves. And so we're on FaceTime. And I'm trying on, like, a leather glove. I'm trying on, you know, all these different gloves. And we like on this, like, see through black sort of mesh glove. And loved kind of like the wrinkles happening and all the texture. I love a glove anyway, so sometimes it's wild. Like, that is definitely one of my favorite looks as well. And it's funny how sometimes the looks that are really just kind of thrown together in a frenzy can ultimately turn out to be, like, you know, really special.

[Liv Perez]

Yeah, it's like beauty and the chaos. It really is beauty and the chaos.

[Claudia Saluski]

It is.

[Liv Perez]

I was looking through some of your looks, and I actually noticed, and I would love to hear if this is intentional or not, because this is something that my fiance and I go through all the time. Do you and Finneas match?

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, my God, yes.

[Liv Perez]

So this is like, literally, this is a conversation as Alex and I are going to a wedding and he's like, shouldn't we, like, compliment each other? I see you guys match so wonderfully, and, like, I need to know what goes into it. Like, help it go out.

[Claudia Saluski]

Here is the interest. So here's the very silly thing about this. We have never, I think we have only ever one time intentionally matched on a carpet, which was. I forgot what year, but it was a Grammys. And we both were wearing, like, silk tuxedos. He was wearing. I was wearing a light blue one, and I believe it was Gucci. We were both wearing Gucci, like, silk suits and that. But again, that, like, sort of happened by accident or maybe, maybe I'm just clueless. And actually it was, like, entirely planned, but it ended up being like, the thing that I pulled. And then later I found out he pulled the same thing, and we're like, oh, wait, okay, perfect. But every other red carpet occasion, I am never knowing what that man is wearing. We are not. It is just happening by accident. Here's the thing. I can always sort of rely on the fact that he probably will be wearing something neutral and black and, you know, nothing too crazy. I've, like, really enjoyed seeing kind of like where his style is evolving on the carpet. Like, he's finding cool, kind of edgy moments too, which is, like, fun to watch. But the way that we match so much in our day to day lives is insanity. Like, we're going out to dinner with a friend and we look in the mirror and we're like, no, one of us needs to change. Like, we're both wearing a leather jacket with, like, a brown sweater underneath and, like, black pants. And we're like, no, no, no. This is so embarrassing.

[Liv Perez]

It happens.

[Claudia Saluski]

It really happens. And so. And I'm always stealing his, like, Carhartt jackets and stuff.

[Liv Perez]

That's the best.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yes, the jacket.

[Liv Perez]

The secondary closet of menswear is amazing. I'm always stealing Alex's, like, Prada button down or like, things like that that I just love and feel. Just add a little umph to my look. It's privilege. Yeah, it is privilege. I want to talk about YouTube a little bit because it's a platform that I am really curious about. And it's something that I personally never got into. So my curiosity, like, knows no bounds.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, my gosh.

[Liv Perez]

But you got on when you were like, 13? No.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yes. Back in 2009, I completely.

[Liv Perez]

You're 27?

[Claudia Saluski]

I just turned 28.

[Liv Perez]

Okay, so we are like. I think that I missed YouTube land by, like two years.

[Claudia Saluski]

By a sliver.

[Liv Perez]

By a sliver. Like, it was not part of my orbit. I don't have any friends who watch YouTube, but everybody who's like 25, 26 obsessed. It's like it missed my generation by. Or I can't even call it a generation. It missed my age.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah, right.

[Liv Perez]

So even when I was 13, 14, it wasn't part of my orbit. So please tell me all about getting on YouTube at 13 years old.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, my gosh. I mean, I remember YouTube was like such a tiny little fetus platform when I first started and can really think about, like, the five creators that were, like, dominating that platform. And an online, like, beauty community slowly started forming. Blair Fowler, Michelle Phan. And I certainly found myself, yeah, watching all of those videos and feeling very inspired by just, like, the idea of filming and editing. Like, I. That's really where my interest sort of lies with YouTube. I love to edit. I love getting crazy with the edits.

[Liv Perez]

I gotta tell you, I. Again, it not being my first platform, I went down like a spiral.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, my God.

[Liv Perez]

On your YouTube. And I've gotta say, like, I'm. I. I was really impressed. Like, of course, we meet other creators in this world and other people on Instagram, and I will say that there are a few people who I'm very inspired by their creativity. And it was funny. I was watching your Milan vlog and one of those people is you. And the other people is Zhenya. You guys both have incredible creative vision, like your ability to edit. I would love to hear more about that process. Like, are you going into each video with this idea in mind or is it kind of like a domino? It's one thing after another.

[Claudia Saluski]

It is so different every video. Right now I'm sort of embracing a new sort of format, which is. I took kind of a year off YouTube last year and just needed to pull back and wanted to. I was craving privacy and just needed to, like, figure out what my next sort of chapter would be. Because you do anything for 10 plus years, like, you gotta switch it up, you know what I mean? And especially when you are voluntarily throwing so much of your life online. And so this year I've sort of been embracing like monthly vlogs. So I just film random moments and clips of my life across an entire month. And then that last week I scramble, I edit all together, I figure out a way that it like pieces together nicely and then upload it. And it's so far like the response has been wonderful and I've been having so much fun with it. And it's so the first thing I'll say is it is such a story in my brain. Like I really am. Any video you're watching, nothing is in chronological order. Like if my friend were to watch it and be like, my birthday definitely happened before all of those other clips. But you put my birth like, but it's because for starters, you have to keep people engaged. Right. And so knowing how to create like variety within your content and knowing like if this is a talking clip, we're gonna follow that with a montage before we show the next sitting down talking clip, you know, so there's versions of it where it is kind of like, yeah, you're wanting to keep the audience engaged. But the other part of it is I love to be inspired by. Let's say like right now it's definitely music. And so I will sit down and I pull a lot of music from like Epidemic Sound caus they have like a very large royalty free library and you, you know, you really got creator.

[Liv Perez]

Girlies love Epidemic sounds.

[Claudia Saluski]

They really do.

[Liv Perez]

It's actually the bane of my existence though. Like I'm on there for like three hours.

[Claudia Saluski]

It is, yes.

[Liv Perez]

If there's anything that I could change about social media right now, it would be like the access to the music thing, like the Instagram, finding music for my reel. And like, it's like I'm stressed thinking about it.

[Claudia Saluski]

If we could use actual music, that would be fantastic.

[Liv Perez]

Yeah.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh my God. I, I genuinely. Everything would be so different. And so, yeah, I'm making so many playlists on epidem literally so that it can help curate sounds that are similar or like if I find an artist that I like on Epidemic Sound, then I'm stalking all of their music. So you really gotta go into, you know, those, those tunnels and just in the Epidemic black hole and anyways, but I really love, like I'll often just, if I have a free night, I'll sift through and I'll just start pulling songs that inspire something for me. And oftentimes like I love to be creative with, for example, like my intro. And oftentimes it is song first. Yeah. Like my most Recent video. It was like a silent little conversation that I had with my dogs.

[Liv Perez]

I've never felt more seen in my life, especially as someone who works from home, who's a creative. My dog comes up to me three times a day. With those eyes.

[Claudia Saluski]

With those eyes. You know it.

[Liv Perez]

I'm like, where?

[Claudia Saluski]

They just stare at you?

[Liv Perez]

Like, I'm like, do you like your nice $250 a month food? Do you like your nice home and all the nice collars you have? I have to work.

[Claudia Saluski]

I know. And you're like, I took you on a walk this morning.

[Liv Perez]

I took you on an hour walk this morning. What else do you want? I'm like, I have an Australian shepherd. He needs activity. He needs an hour every day. And it's been a good practice for me to give him that time. But I loved that intro.

[Claudia Saluski]

You get it?

[Liv Perez]

So I was like, I feel seen.

[Claudia Saluski]

It's needy hour. That's what I call it.

[Liv Perez]

And it's usually around 4 or 5 o'. Clock.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yes. Always. Always. Yes, Midday.

[Liv Perez]

But I loved that intro. I loved the march intro of you pulling down the screen. And you know, it's actually, it was so amazing to watch these video and be like, this is skill. And then go in your comments and see people being like, your Milan video. Especially someone was like, I feel like I just watched a 90s Rom com.

[Claudia Saluski]

Oh, that's very sweet.

[Liv Perez]

It's really resonating. And I think you're really talented in a specific. I mean, you're talented in a lot. But that specifically is like, I was blown away.

[Claudia Saluski]

Thank you. Thank you. Ultimately, I feel like obviously TikTok is still so massive and with IG reels, like, vertical content is certainly where we are. But I do feel like there has been sort of like this growing interest in YouTube again. I don't know if that's just between my friends and I, but I certainly feel that way. I think long form content, the thing that short form, what freaks me out about it is just that it's so fast and it's so out of your control with what you're watching, where in 10 seconds I'm happy and then I'm devastated and then I'm suddenly concerned you're being thrown so many that by the time you get off the app, you're like, I don't even know what to feel anymore. I've really been like, finding myself enjoying YouTube again because there's less of that. You know what I mean? You have more choice in like what you're clicking and then you're like, okay, I know that this is the choice I've made and I'm going to have this vibe for the next 20 minutes.

[Liv Perez]

You know, something that I've struggled with Instagram too is authenticity and the ability to connect with someone only go so far.

[Claudia Saluski]

That's true too.

[Liv Perez]

There was something way more soothing and authentically narrative driven than just kind of flipping through a feed. So I think people are craving that. I think people, you know, especially with TikTok being so big and it being boom, boom, boom, like things so quickly, I think people are craving ways to get to know creators that they love in a deeper way. And that's why I think YouTube has had kind of a sudden interest again. I think something I've really admired that you've done very well is growing up online, starting at 13. I mean, I started at 19. Thirteen is young.

[Claudia Saluski]

It is, yes.

[Liv Perez]

Being able to really pivot with so much agility, like YouTuber, actress, now brand owner. Like talk me through a little bit about one that choice to step away from YouTube for a bit and kind of what the learning was that has made you so successful.

[Claudia Saluski]

Now I feel like I have never rushed into things too quickly. That is like the first thing that's coming to mind right now. I feel like. I don't know, I. I feel that I've always kind of taken like a slow and steady approach which, like, I don't even know if that's the best advice to give, to be honest, because I think about my like, kind of like busiest years with YouTube where I felt like YouTube was it. It's 2014. YouTube is the thing, you know, and so, so many creators were like collaborating and, and just like really taking advantage of just what sort of like content was just blowing up at that time, you know, whether that is like using clickbait titles and thumbnails and all these things. And I just remember carrying just myself through all those seasons and just kind of pushing that aside and continuing to do my own thing. And I just think through every step of the way. So when I think about acting now, or now as I change to that topic, I really, and still to this day I'm very, very intentional with the choices that I make and what I'm actually auditioning for and making sure that I took different types of classes for a really long time, you know, doing partner scenes and one on one coaching and classes. And I think I also wanted to dive into entrepreneurship and brand owning and founding and building in that approach as well. I really took my time with it. And I think ultimately, like, in choosing, like, that approach, it just allows you to catch any mistake before it's too late, if that makes sense. You know, I just, like, think about, I guess, like, the time we're living in, in, like, virality and just like, the way that people can blow up on TikTok for, like, a certain thing, and then suddenly the entire world expects them to only do that thing. And I have always feared that, putting myself into that bucket or position because I want the freedom to be able to grow and ev. And I think living my life online for so many years, through all of the pivotal moments of braces, to moving out, to boyfriends, to breakups, to moving into a home, all this stuff, I've always wanted to make sure to. Yeah. Not pigeon myself in any sort of way, where suddenly people are expecting me to never grow up and to never change. And so it's interesting to now watch how viral things can happen, and then just watching people navigate how to then leave those boxes that people create, it's really tough. This is a bit. I just went on a big tangent.

[Liv Perez]

No, no, no, I love the tangent. I've felt the same way. I mean, I've started when I was 19, and even when I started the OG version of this podcast, there was a point in time where I was like, I am bound to this thing and it's not serving me anymore. And I think the necessity to have no ego in whatever you're doing professionally, I mean, also in life, to be able to just let go of whatever your perception of something is or someone else's perception of you is, and just do the thing that feels most authentic and real to you. Even if that means, like, having to say goodbye to something that you've built, or if it means having to take a very vulnerable step into something. I think it's really crucial. I remember watching the video that you posted on YouTube that was like, something needs to change. I. I distinctly remember that. And I think, too, it was one of the first times I'd seen a creator be vulnerable about, like. Like having to live life authentically online while also making money, while also leaning into trends that are working so that you do grow as a business. It's a really slippery slope. And it was actually wonderful to see, again, the comments on that post of your audience appreciating that vulnerability and saying, kind of do what you need to do. We'll be here afterwards. And to me, that strength in a community, obviously, is so telling of you, but I think people want that. I think it's important to show that side.

[Claudia Saluski]

It is so important. I just feel like you have to protect yourself. Absolutely. If you're in this industry and you're showing real parts of yourself and real parts of your life, it's really, really important. And it's easy to kind of not prioritize that when shit is working, numbers are growing, all this stuff, whatever, you know, and opportunities start arising. But, like, it is. It is very. That protection is really, really important.

[Liv Perez]

I know that you did. I love my dad. 2022.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah.

[Liv Perez]

And I feel like that was the era and we're still kind of in that era where, like, the YouTube to TV pipeline.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah, yeah.

[Liv Perez]

What are your thoughts on that? Like, what do you think resonates for YouTubers who are looking to move into quite literally, a larger screen?

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah, I think. I mean, I remember when I first started out, it's something that I've definitely had to find myself in a healthy headspace about it. For starters, what I was kind of saying earlier, that if you really, really are interested in doing something, taking your time with it, making sure that you take classes and you understand and respect whatever art form you're going into, I think that can really be seen and felt versus someone who's just jumping onto something because they're like, hell, yeah, this is a lot of money. Or this is an opportunity to get to be in front of a camera that maybe isn't my own camera. And so it's tricky because. Yeah, as to what you're saying, we've seen that crossover happen both successfully and unsuccessfully in the way that it's been received. The other tricky thing was I remember for so many years feeling obviously so proud of the platform that I had built and where it's taken me. But at the same time, I knew that it was being perceived in a different way via, you know, casting directors or production companies because the word YouTuber, like, had this stereotype to it. That's really tricky, too. Team member of mine, who I no longer work with admitted that she kind of picked and chose which casting directors she would even mention that I made YouTube videos, which was really sad to hear because I was like, oh, that's telling me that you don't get it. And so I don't even know if I have some ultimate answer or solution to this. But it's like, again, I'm trying to just take the slow and steady approach. And I understand that that. That stereotype and maybe that sort of preset kind of like whatever notion hasn't fully dissolved, but at the end of the day, I will say I do feel like the lines are blurring so much between each industry and just seeing traditional talent really embrace fully the online space. And so I think now kind of vice versa, online creators are also receiving that same amount of respect and grace, but I think these things just take time. I think also I'm just not worried because life is long. I'm here for the long haul. Like, I'm just doing my thing. Love.

[Liv Perez]

I love that mentality.

[Claudia Saluski]

And so when the right things come along, like, they come along. And until then, like, I think it's great to make sure to, like, pour a bit of water into every single bucket and not abandon anything when one thing becomes a higher priority or more exciting to you as well.

[Liv Perez]

I want to get into Cyclore a little bit with the last remaining minutes that we have. You know, I'm such a huge fan. Like. Like, I was not a body lotion person at all, which is crazy. I feel like there, you're either, like, in the school where, like, you were trained out of the shower to put body lotion everywhere, just, like, wasn't part of my routine. Now, favorite step one. Texture, consistency. Amazing. I love the mission. I love the packaging. I love the branding. But the smell, the smell, the smell. Like, I have people asking me, like, like, like hugging me and being like, what is that? What is that? Did you, like, see the scent in your mind? Like, how did this come to be?

[Claudia Saluski]

When I started developing the scent, it's called Crescent, which is inspired by the name of my street growing up. And I grew up surrounded by forests, and so that's kind of where I pulled the name. And I wanted it to be something that had, like, a woodsy base to it. And I think with my first scent, it's so tricky to describe it because I'll have friends or just anyone be like, okay, so is it woodsy? Is it floral? Is it a citrus? It's not too musky or, like, too heavy? You know what I mean? And so it's hard to describe because it has a little bit of everything in it. It's got some florals. It's got that bergamot kind of citrus. There's a bit of grapefruit in there, too. That's a top note. That also makes it really fresh and light in the beginning, and then as it wears on your skin, that's really when the frankincense and kind of the woods shine the most. And so it is definitely. It is a jumbled concoction, but I think it was really important for me to, like, set a tone with that first fragrance. And it's been so exciting hearing how many people love it. Like, that has been the overwhelming response is the fragrance, which is very exciting because we are definitely leaning in that direction. Moving forward. Yes, please make perfume. We're, you know, things are.

[Liv Perez]

You heard it here first. You heard it here first? Only because I am dying for it. Like, actually this morning, it was so funny. I was, like, putting it on my legs and I already had my clothes on and was like, I. And I was like, fuck, can I just, like, slather it on my body so I smell like it? Do I have to take my top off, like, put it on my body? And I was like, I need a perfume.

[Claudia Saluski]

It's so good. It's so good.

[Liv Perez]

It's so good. And I'd love to know why. Body care?

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah, I think, for starters, like, I really. I think that is a space that still felt like there was. I mean, here's the thing. It's, you know, obviously, like, the beauty industry. There are so many brands and so many wonderful products that already exist and everything. And I think I, like, really wanted to tap this, like, multisensorial experience. And, like, body care was the first that came to mind for me. I also am very interested in, like, skin care focused ingredients in body care, and I'm excited to continue to dive into that direction and sort of like, treating your body like your face almost, in a sense.

[Liv Perez]

And again, even when I said, like, overlooked, totally, like, I'm using the most expensive skincare, like, what am I doing? I know, and I'll never forget, Barbara Sturm was giving me a facial once and she said, your face ends at your nipples. And I was like, yes, that is very true.

[Claudia Saluski]

I am pulling everything down. Yeah, everything down for sure. And yeah, I also just felt like body care was a fun space to play in that truly everyone can enjoy too. I wanted to create a gender neutral brand that, like, could just sit on anyone's counter and in anyone's bathroom. And so that also just felt like a fun place to sit in as well. And I think also understanding, like, I'm not an esthetician or I've. I'm also, like, I think, like, knowing. I think also I wanted to choose a category that felt authentic, just like from a third person view, you know what I mean? Like, I've grown up making videos in every single category. Skincare, you know, fashion, makeup, all these things. But, like, I'm certainly not hyper focused on like skincare, for example. And so I felt like maybe I'm gonna leave that to the people who really get that. You know what I mean? And so I'm excited. Now I've got a team of experts that are. We're really kind of gonna, like, elevate the ingredients that we're using for our future products. So that will be super fun to explore and continue to learn about. But, like, I just felt like, I don't know, it's like sometimes when you know, you know, do you know what I mean?

[Liv Perez]

Yeah, absolutely.

[Claudia Saluski]

And I was like, yeah, it's gonna be body. This can be body.

[Liv Perez]

It has to be like, that guttural feeling. You're like, that's my thing.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah. And sometimes, like, that's sometimes not satisfying answer to give. But like, also, like, there were so many different aspects of building Cycler that just got me so excited, even down to just like, literally the design of the brand. And, like, you know, you go on the homepage and, like, the video that's playing on the homepage is all footage that I filmed with my camera that I normally film my YouTube videos with, and I edit it together and, like, bringing together, like, friends to shoot the product and all of that. Like, there's. There's so many aspects of brand building that just allowed me, like, it just created a whole new avenue to pour my creativity into that wasn't necessarily focused around, like, my face and my name and my likeness and all these things. And that also has just been super fun. I feel so lucky in that I have the time and the resources to get to start something from scratch and try it out and, you know, hopefully it's received well. And so far it has been, which is amazing. And so, I don't know, I just, like, we're figuring it out, you know, I love.

[Liv Perez]

I mean, and you just had major news investment from the center, which is, you know, they have make beauty. They have Fleur.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah.

[Liv Perez]

Huge for you guys. I can. I'm so excited to see what you guys build with that.

[Claudia Saluski]

Yeah, it's going to be.

[Liv Perez]

Congratulations, by the way.

[Claudia Saluski]

Thank you very, very much. Very, very feeling, very grateful.

[Liv Perez]

Yeah, I can't wait. I'm waiting over here with the breath.

[Claudia Saluski]

We are cooking, right?

[Liv Perez]

Yeah, right. I saw that news drop and I was like, okay, they're cooking with fire now.

[Claudia Saluski]

I know.

[Liv Perez]

I love the choice. I think a lot of brands can, you know, play that long game of like, okay, we're going to. To wait five years to take any investment or something like that. But I think he went a really strategic route. And I can tell that whatever's coming out of it is going to be great.

[Claudia Saluski]

It's also like such a people business. The minute I, I met Ben, like, we just, we hit it off immediately and just. Yeah. Again, like, you know, when you, you know.

[Liv Perez]

When you know, you know, when you know, you know. As Lana says, when you know, you know. Yeah. Crucial.

[Claudia Saluski]

Very excited. So much to come.

[Liv Perez]

Can't wait. Thanks for coming on today.

[Claudia Saluski]

Of course. This was so fun. Sam.

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[Liv Perez]

We've got you covered.

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[Liv Perez]

Thanks.

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[Liv Perez]

Yep, that too.

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