Breaking Boundaries

In conversation with fashion muse, activist & musical trailblazer Britney Manson.

She is a model, musician, and artist shaping her own narrative in a way that merges high fashion with underground culture. A trans-femme innovator, who turned the streets of Berlin into a runway and leveraged the global reach of TikTok to craft a distinct aesthetic and voice. Her career is defined by reinvention and a fearless approach to self-expression. Through her music and fashion, she challenges traditional norms, blending artistry and personal identity to create a universe that is as bold as it is refined. With every step, she defies expectations and redefines beauty. Her work is a statement of transformation—deliberate and undeniably compelling.

Growing up, what was your vision for your dream career? Did it evolve from what you imagined as a young girl?

It’s exactly what I have now! Time really flies, and looking back, I feel like I’ve always known exactly what I was meant to do, almost as if I manifested it. When I was 12, I even drew a sketch of myself, and I look exactly like that today. Everything I dreamed of back then is my reality now.

Fashion has always been a key part of your personal narrative, but when did you first step into the industry as a model, and what drew you in?

I had my first runway experience at 12. I always knew who I wanted to be, so when I saw a fashion show in a shopping mall, I just went backstage without permission, found a model agent, and asked him to hire me. The next week, I walked my first show. Since then, everything I’ve done has been for fashion.

Transitioning from modeling to music, how did you discover that music was not just a passion but a path you wanted to pursue professionally?

I wouldn’t call it a transition—I’m doing both, and I absolutely love it! Music is art, fashion is art, and I’m here to blend them and create something amazing. I’ve always known I could do both, and now I’m making it happen.

Your music often blends pop and underground sounds, described as “fashion core.” How has your experience in the fashion industry influenced your musical style and performance?

My music is made to walk down the street to the right beat. I want my music to feel as bold and stylish as fashion itself, and of course, my experience in fashion has deeply influenced my sound. It’s all about creating that smokin’ vibe, where the music and fashion go hand in hand.

Your fashion collaborations have taken you to prestigious runways, including Paris and Berlin Fashion Week. How do you approach self-expression through both music and fashion, and how do they intertwine in your creative process?

I’m just grateful for the opportunities in both industries, and I enjoy every minute of it. The way I see it, self-expression through music and fashion is about blending the two art forms seamlessly—there’s no separation for me. They’re both part of the same creative journey.

You’ve mentioned that your identity as a trans woman doesn’t define your career, but representation still plays an important role. Can you share how being a role model has impacted your fans, especially young queer individuals?

I don’t want to pretend to be a role model—I just want to be an example for all the rebels, for anyone who wants to make their dreams come true, despite the “no’s” and “never’s.” It doesn’t matter if I’m trans or not. I’ve transformed my entire life—gender, appearance, body, country—and I’ve done it all on my own terms. I created my life from scratch, and I’m proud of that. My identity isn’t the big story; it’s about survival, happiness, and living life on my own terms.

In today’s binary, heteronormative world, how do you feel trans-femme artists are perceived within the music industry, and is there a shift happening?

I feel great! Just look at me! :) There’s no need for a dramatic answer. I started my transition back in high school in Russia in the early 2000s, and after that, nothing really scares or offends me. I’ve gone through the hardest experiences, and now I’m here, thriving. So, I don’t feel the need to make a big deal about how I’m perceived. I’ve already broken the barriers.

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