REALITY BYTES: TEMPTATION ISLAND STAR ASHLEY MOORE ON MODELING, CREATIVE FREEDOM, AND THE FUTURE

 

Ashley Moore moves through the world like someone who’s learned to trust the quiet pull of intuition over the noise of expectation. After her time on Netflix’s Temptation Island, she didn’t follow the usual post-show arc; instead, she shifted into something more layered. Modeling at Miami Swim Week, prepping for NYFW, diving into yoga teacher training in Bali, and sketching out the early contours of a bikini line that feels more like a philosophy than a product.

Her work lives at the intersection of beauty, wellness, and wanderlust, but it’s Miami that truly anchors her. In this conversation, Ashley reflects on emotional clarity, creative pivots, and the kind of ambition that doesn’t need to shout to be heard.

Temptation Island gave viewers a glimpse into your emotional depth and resilience. What did that experience teach you about yourself that surprised you most?

The environment of “Temptation Island” helped me realize what I knew all along. I had been torn for months on whether I wanted to continue the relationship or not. I am eternally grateful for the experience, but it made me understand that I need to trust my intuition and really focus internally on what I want and deserve in a relationship. Not just what the other person can convince me of.

How has life shifted for you since the show aired in terms of your personal, professional, or creative experiences?

My life has done a 180, but at the same time, it feels so normal. It’s very hard to explain. I went from working a 9-5 job in corporate America to being a content creator pretty quickly. It’s been an interesting path because, as an accountant, I felt as though I was always limited in my creative ability. This new path opened up a different part of my brain. I am really enjoying it! Having my background in accounting makes it a lot easier to navigate the brand space, for sure.

You’ve walked in multiple shows at Miami Swim Week. What was the energy like backstage, and how did it feel stepping onto that runway?

My first show was smaller, but I was still terrified. It ended up being the perfect warm-up to walk my other main show, Megan Mae, which was the experience of a lifetime. The rush of walking on the runway was a feeling I could relive over and over.

What drew you into the modeling world initially, and how do you see your role evolving within it?

I feel like I was sort of thrown into it. I didn’t expect my social media presence to take off or be presented with opportunities like walking in Miami Swim Week, so I’ve just been trying to take it all in and enjoy the ride. I am always down for new experiences, so who knows where I will end up.

With NYFW on the horizon, what are you most excited to see or wear, and how do you prepare mentally and stylistically for an event like that?

NYFW is so close, and I haven’t even processed the fact that I am attending events and going to be a part of that space yet. There are so many aspects and logistics behind the scenes, and I am just excited for all of it.

You’ve been busy since Temptation Island. Can you share a few projects or personal milestones that have lit you up recently?

Shortly after filming, I decided to embark on a soul-searching journey to Bali to do a yoga teacher training. I spent a month fully immersed in all things yoga and the gorgeous culture. Lately, I’ve been focusing on how to incorporate my business mind with my yoga mind, so excited to see that play out in the future.

Travel seems to be a big part of your life. Is there a place that’s inspired your aesthetic or mindset in a lasting way?

I have nothing but amazing things to say about Bali. It felt like I was in a different world and could escape reality, but I feel as though each place I’ve traveled to has made me who I am and affected how I live. I recently went to Portugal for a surf and yoga retreat, knowing no one, and leaving there having met so many incredible souls. Traveling has encouraged me to get outside my comfort zone and has connected me with so many amazing people. It’s made me more confident and independent.

You’re based in Miami, which sets you apart from the typical LA influencer scene. How does the city shape your vibe, your work, or your sense of self?

I have always been a Florida girl at heart. I was always meant to end up here, coming from the Midwest. I love being a beach girly, and I always find myself alone by the ocean whenever I need grounding. LA is fun, fast, and a great place to visit, but being in South Florida is more my vibe.

What’s something about Miami that you think people misunderstand or that you wish more creatives would embrace?

I think being in Miami makes it so much easier to express yourself and not feel awkward or embarrassed in the social media space. Everyone here seems to be working towards some type of success in the creative space.

You’ve hinted at launching a bikini line. What’s the story behind that dream, and what kind of woman are you designing for?

I’ve been all over the place with what exactly I want to pursue. I probably own over 150 bikinis, and making a line would make a lot of sense, but I’ve begun considering ideas more in the wellness space with my background in yoga. We will see where I decide to dive in!

If you could describe your future brand in three words, what would they be and why?

Passionate, wellness-forward, accepting. I am hoping to create a brand where there is a balance between being comfortable and bringing out the best version of yourself, to create a space for people with pure intentions.

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