CM Digital Cover: ANNA SITAR

Story by Editor-at-Large CAROLINA OLGLIARO

Photography: Carly Sharp
Hair: Bradley Leake
Makeup: Jenna Nicole
Styling: Janelle Miller

Inside the World of Anna Sitar: The Engineer-Turned-Influencer Making Soft Power Cool


She doesn’t just follow trends, she sets them, effortlessly, in a world that thrives on instant moments and the constant rush to capture attention. It’s not about her standing out; she is the standout, with a presence that draws you in quietly, almost without you realizing it. You find yourself captivated by her authenticity, her unspoken confidence, and the way she moves through the digital space with ease. In a landscape where many people manufacture their personalities, she remains refreshingly real, an enigma wrapped in warmth, sincerity, and a kind of grounded elegance that’s rare to find.

Her influence doesn’t scream for attention. It doesn’t try to force its way into your life; it simply is. Every word she speaks, every post she shares, every subtle moment of vulnerability or reflection she offers, resonates in a way that feels deeply personal and incredibly powerful. It’s a quiet kind of power, one that doesn’t have to fight to be heard. Instead, it gently shifts the culture around her, creating waves that feel entirely her own, yet somehow still reflect something larger than herself.

Her voice isn’t the loudest, but it’s the one that stays with you. Her story isn’t told through grand gestures, but through small moments that feel as monumental as they are personal. She doesn’t perform vulnerability; she lives it, and through that, she’s sparked something bigger, something that connects the dots between identity, creativity, and genuine human connection. With each piece of content, she invites her audience into a space where honesty isn’t a marketing strategy, it’s an invitation to exist, unapologetically, in your truest form.

It’s rare to find someone who can seamlessly blend the charm of the girl-next-door with the poise of a modern muse, but Anna Sitar does exactly that. With her signature warmth, unfiltered honesty, and captivating digital presence, Anna has become one of the most beloved creators of her generation. She doesn’t shape trends, she’s shaping a new kind of storytelling.

Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Michigan, Anna’s story isn’t just one of overnight virality, it’s a journey marked by quiet resilience, brilliant intention, and a surprising depth of intellect. Armed with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a master’s in Film and Television Production from Loyola Marymount University, she doesn’t simply create content but she crafts narratives. 

For millions, Anna first became a familiar face through TikTok, where her “Another Day, Another Starbies” series became a ritual for many, a moment of joy and comfort. But underneath the pastel-hued drinks and candid smiles lies a woman acutely aware of her influence and deeply committed to making digital spaces feel more like safe spaces. Through heartbreak, healing, and everyday musings, Anna speaks directly to the hearts of her audience with a voice that feels bothfresh and familiar.

Today, Anna isn’t just collaborating with the likes of Louis Vuitton and Spotify; she’s also lending her platform to causes and conversations that matter, from redefining self-worth in her “I Don’t Want It” series to encouraging young girls to break molds through her work with LEGO’s Team Unstoppable. With the launch of her podcast Anna’s Guide, she opens yet another door, inviting listeners even further into her world, one that’s real, reflective, and remarkably unfiltered.

Anna Sitar doesn’t just go with the flow, she leads it. Whether she’s behind the camera or behind a mic, what stands out is her ability to tell stories that truly matter. Stories that hit you, that stick with you—and always, with authenticity.

In our exclusive interview, Anna Sitar opens up about the power of authenticity in the digital age, how she navigates her creative journey, and what’s next for the woman who’s changing the rules of influence.

Your journey from mechanical engineering to digital content creation is unique—what was the defining moment that made you take the leap? And how has your engineering background influenced your approach to content creation?

Making the leap, I think, came more from engineering to going back to school for a master’s in Film and Television Production. The summer before my final year in engineering, I had a bit of a “wake up” moment that made me realize I may not be happy in the career I chose at 18 for the next 50 years. Although I had an immense amount of passion for problem-solving and helping others, I realized I could still feel that within other paths like storytelling and creating (which also made me feel so fulfilled and empowered). Because of that and a pre-existing love for videography, I chose to go back to school. It was the best choice I’ve ever made, and content creation was simply a byproduct of the love for movie-making that I’ve had since I held my first camera. It was the most serendipitous accident. 

Engineering in a content creation space has offered me so many things: unique perspective, strategy, and work ethic. I am endlessly thankful for that first experience because it taught me to find patterns in my work and find solutions or ways to think outside the box in difficult situations.

With millions of followers worldwide, how do you balance being relatable while maintaining an aspirational image?

I think my number one goal is simply to always be authentic to myself. I know that so many of my experiences are things that I would be losing my marbles to know were happening 10 years ago. Because of that, I feel like I can constantly reconnect with my childhood self and see this life through her eyes. Oftentimes, my experiences are not relatable, and I think my pure joy and gratefulness for the world that I’ve had the honor to be a part of is what makes it real. I truly want to be someone that 16-22-year-old me would be proud of and inspired by. And most importantly, I want to share the incredible experiences I have with the people I love and my friends on the other side of the phone. 

Your content radiates positivity—how do you stay so grounded and authentic in an industry that can sometimes feel superficial?

Similar to what I said before, being myself. We’ve all heard the saying, “The people you surround yourself with is who you become,” and I think that the content we consume also majorly impacts the person that we are. That’s why I think it’s so important to follow creators that make you FEEL GOOD. My goal is to see the good in everything (even the hard lessons) and live in my true, genuine experiences along the way. It’s easy to see content do well and immediately think, “If I made something like that, I could be successful,” but the truth is that it already exists. You are successful by being YOURSELF and sharing life as you see it. The most important thing in life is to be you.

Fashion is a big part of your personal brand. How would you describe your signature style, and how has it evolved over the years?

I think I’m still discovering her. And best of all there doesn’t have to be any rules. During Coachella Weekend, I had so much fun playing with my style on all ends of the spectrum, from more fairy princess to more edgy and masculine. I think that is what I enjoy the most about fashion: it’s an expression of self and can be ever-changing, not only over the years but also between weeks and days. I think if I had to describe it, a few words would probably be playful, femme, athletic, undone, and elegant. And it varies wildly by day.

You’ve attended prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival. What goes into curating the perfect red carpet look?

Something that makes me feel confident and inspired! Because content creation, videography, and photography are such key parts of my brain, I think when I see an outfit, I think about what story it will tell online and how it will be photographed. It’s so exciting to know that every look unlocks a different version of myself. 

How do you navigate the pressure of always being in the public eye while maintaining your mental and emotional well-being?

I think this question is something I have finally been getting a grasp on over the last two years. The truth is, it came with age. And certainty of myself. As soon as I started to feel more confident in myself and my worth, it became so much easier to be perceived online and in person. And I know that when people meet me, they are always getting the best version because I am sure to take good care of myself offline as well as online. 

You’ve collaborated with major brands—what are the key factors you consider before aligning yourself with a brand?

It’s simple: Do I love and know them in real life? I know my audience trusts me, and we’ve grown up together in so many ways that I would never want to lead them astray. I always make sure the brands and products I choose are things I stand by and love. And “no” isn’t hard to say when I know that it’s protecting the people whom I adore most on the other side of my phone. 

The social media landscape is constantly changing. How do you keep your content fresh and relevant while staying true to yourself?

I think that the landscape is changing because creators are too! So keeping content fresh isn’t so intimidating when I’m really just making what I love, and I know the people who are growing with me will love it too OR new friends who might be entering a same era can become part of the journey. A huge element of this job is fluidity, and the ever-changing landscape keeps my work so exciting. 

As a woman in the industry, have you faced any challenges that have shaped the way you approach your career?

I actually think, coming from two male-dominated fields before this, that the girlhood in this industry is something I admire and appreciate so much. Having so many incredible, talented, and successful women to cheer on through this industry has made me so much more inspired and empowered myself. 

What has been the most surreal “pinch me” moment of your career so far?

I have been so lucky to have a few. Launching a swimwear line with PacSun last year was a huge pinch-me moment. Being in a campaign and commercial for K18 very early in my career that allowed me to co-direct and put my master’s degree to use felt like such a win and milestone. Even my baby steps, like having the chance to audition for my dream role and working with some of my dream brands, feel like major achievements to be celebrated. 

You hold a Master’s degree in Film and Television Production—do you see yourself stepping into traditional media, such as directing or acting?

That is my greatest dream actually. To combine the worlds that I love so much and continue to tell stories, whether from the iPhone or the big screen. I’ve been pursuing acting for 3 years now, and I love every second of it. In each project, I learn a new thing about myself and work my acting muscles. I love to write and have so many little scripts in the work to bring back Rom-Coms (my literal goal in life). Most of all, I look forward to the day that I book an incredible role, TV show, or movie and get to peel back the curtain and share all the fun behind the scenes of that process as well.  

If you could style and produce your own dream fashion campaign, what would it look like?

OH MY GOODNESS. I love this question. I think I would need a brand first or an article of clothing to unlock the first series of inspirations, but I love playing with color and motion. I think that’s why swimwear was so exciting for me because I love the water and how playful we could be on set. Maybe something with fitness or athleisure? I think it would be fun to combine the new sports I’ve been partaking in with the fashion and creativity of my career. 

Who are some of your biggest fashion inspirations, and how do they influence your wardrobe choices?

I think I’m inspired by strangers. TRULY. When I go to the airport, I’m looking around at layering and style and what brands they have on. And especially while traveling to other cities and countries, it’s so exciting to see how much culture and location affect fashion.

Many people see influencers as just entertainers, but you also inspire and empower. What message do you hope to leave with your audience?

That they can be anything and do anything. Life is long, and I really hope that every member of my audience takes a risk and a chance on themselves. 

What does a day in your life look like when you’re preparing for a major brand partnership or event?

Wake up. Bru makes my coffee every morning. Maybe a run, workout, walk, or stretch (which I also use for alone brain time so I can think of cute content for the day). And then I prep everything I want to film before getting ready! I just got a whiteboard in my house, which has CHANGED my life. I can list everything I have on my brain, the transitions that need an “unready” first part, and the vlogs that will need little clips all day, and I check off the requirements as I go. I definitelyloved school growing up, and it’s bleeding into my adulthood, to say the least. 

What advice would you give to young women who aspire to build a personal brand and make an impact in media and fashion?

Be yourself. A small audience of genuine people is always better than a big audience that doesn’t interact. You would be shocked at how much alike we are while still being unique in our own ways. Share what makes you unique, and you will attract those who are like you yet appreciate your differences. 

Luxury and sustainability are key conversations in fashion. How do you incorporate sustainability into your lifestyle and wardrobe choices?

I think products and clothing should be made to last and be loved. Whether it’s bags, a great pair of jeans, or a staple white tee shirt; you can find these items cheaper but that may need to be purchased more often and donated or tossed after a couple of wears, but I’ve found that investing in products with longevity has made such a difference for me. And they wear it beautifully so the style remains and grows as I do. 

Looking ahead, what are some of your biggest goals—whether in content creation, fashion, or beyond?

I feel like my goals are constantly evolving, but lately, my dream has really been in the acting and writing space. Bringing back rom-coms and making movies that tell stories that everyone can enjoy. In the fashion space, I would love the chance to create a clothing line or swimwear line again with brands that I love. Capsule collections make me so excited and inspired, and I have so much fun building entertainment around the process. Finally, I continue to know and learn about myself. Discover new passions I haven’t tapped into yet and travel.

If you could describe your career in three words, what would they be?

Authentic. Sunlit. Empowering. If I could add a fourth: Evolving. I feel like those are fitting 🙂

In a digital landscape saturated with trends that burn bright and fade fast, Anna Sitar is the rare force that defies the rush of fleeting moments. She doesn’t just participate in the digital world, she’s rewriting its rules. Through a blend of unfiltered authenticity, unapologetic creativity, and razor-sharp intent, Anna has built something far beyond viral content: she’s built a movement. Her influence doesn’t rely on spectacle, it’s rooted in connection, in telling stories that matter, that stick, and that invite us to see ourselves in new ways.

Anna doesn’t just curate a life for the camera; she invites us into her truth. And, in doing so, she’s redefined what it means to be an influencer, making the act of sharing more than just an image or post, it’s an art, a conversation, a call to be real.She’s shown us that digital space doesn’t need to be cold or calculated; it can be a place of warmth, meaning, and connection.

What Anna is creating is something bigger than brand deals and viral moments; it’s a blueprint for authenticity in a world that desperately needs it. As she continues to break new ground and challenge the status quo, Anna Sitar is shaping the future of influence itself. Her legacy won’t be measured by views or likes; it’ll be felt in the lasting impact she leaves on an entire generation.

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