My MUSE | Jessica Higueras

Hi everyone, Olivia here to introduce this week’s My MUSE: the ever-curious, vibrant, and simply gorgeous Jessica Higueras.

Born in Peru and now based in New Zealand, Jessica brings an irresistible warmth and energy to everything she does. Her Peruvian roots run deep. You can see it in her love of colour, her connection to people, and the instinctive way she captures emotion through a lens. Whether she’s photographing a bustling street, a quiet landscape, or a fleeting glance between strangers, her work pulses with life.

After more than 15 years as a wedding photographer, Jessica found herself craving something more personal. A solo summer trip to Europe became a creative reset and unexpectedly the beginning of a new chapter. Her debut exhibition Dream of Summer is a celebration of that journey — spontaneous, spirited, and full of light.

Jessica’s style, much like her art, is joyful, textural, and led by feeling. From bold coats to soft neutrals, she dresses with the same playful intuition she brings to her work.

I sat down with Jessica to talk creative shifts, grounding rituals, and the surprising colour combo that’s currently stealing her heart…

 

 

You grew up in Peru before calling New Zealand home. How do your Peruvian roots influence you creatively? 

Growing up in Peru gave me a deep appreciation for warmth, energy, and the excitement of being around people — all of which continue to shape both my photography and my sense of self. There’s a vibrancy that’s hard to describe — people are expressive, passionate, and full of spirit. That environment taught me to value connection, spontaneity, and the beauty of shared moments.

Creatively, especially when I’m photographing people, I think it shows in how attuned I am to emotion — I’m drawn to moments that feel real, and full of life. I love capturing human connection. When I’m shooting travel or landscapes, my eye naturally gravitates toward vibrant colours, lively settings, and places that feel full of character. That could come from growing up in an environment where life was expressive and full of warmth. That energy — that human aliveness — is something I try to channel into my work.  

 

 

You were a wedding photographer for many years — what inspired your creative pivot into exhibiting your own work?

For over 15 years, I photographed weddings — and while I loved capturing those beautiful, fleeting moments of connection, over time I began to crave something more personal. I never planned to shift into travel photography, exhibit my work, or sell prints — it all unfolded unexpectedly, and in the most natural way.

Last year, I decided to spend two months travelling through Europe during the summer, exploring some of the continent’s most beautiful places.What made this trip different was the decision to travel alone. That time to myself wasn’t just a holiday — it became a space to reconnect with who I was creatively — just my camera and the desire to observe, wander, and feel.

When I returned to New Zealand and began sharing some of the images with friends, their reactions surprised me. They encouraged me to take it further, and that’s when the idea of exhibiting and creating a print collection began to form. Their enthusiasm gave me the confidence to explore this unexpected path.

What started as a personal reset turned into a new chapter — and that’s how Dream of Summer, my first solo exhibition and art print collection, was born.

 

 

Do you have any daily rituals — in fashion, beauty, or life — that help you feel like “you”?

My mornings always start with a big glass of water and a scoop of greens powder — it’s my simple reset. After that, a walk is non-negotiable. It clears my head, gets me moving, and gives me a chance to connect with nature. Hitting 10,000 steps has become a daily rhythm I really enjoy — it energises me and often sparks ideas.

I choose outfits based on how I want to feel — sometimes bold and playful, other times soft and neutral. I always prioritise comfort but like to add a creative edge, whether it’s through layering, colour, or texture. For me, it’s another form of self-expression.

When it comes to beauty, I keep things simple and consistent. In the mornings, I go with a serum, vitamin C, and a hydrating cream. At night, it’s usually just retinol and a good moisturiser.

 

 

Fashion clearly plays a role in your life — how would you describe your personal style?

With fashion, I tend to dress based on how I want to feel that day — sometimes playful and bold, sometimes soft and neutral. I always choose comfort, but with a creative edge. I think of getting dressed as another way to express myself.

 

 

What are you loving wearing right now? Any go-to colours or pieces?

Right now, I’ve been drawn to brown, which is new for me! I never used to reach for it, but I’ve been having fun mixing it with soft pinks and cool blues — it creates such a nice contrast. Jeans are always a must — I like having a few different cuts and colours to play with depending on the mood or occasion. Lately, 

One of the best things about winter is layering — it’s the perfect excuse to get creative with textures and colours. I’m already obsessed with my Charlotte Simone Penny Coat in Dusty Blue! But while we’re still in that in-between season, I’m loving the versatility of a good blouse — it can add a playful or bold twist, or soften a look depending on how I feel. And honestly, if it’s a cozy day, I’ll just throw on my favourite neutral track pants — comfort always wins.

 

 

What's on your MUSE wish-list?

A pair of the Bottega Veneta glasses in gold and Havana, the cashmere Uptown dickey insert from Veronica Beard (they're so clever and perfect for switching up a look), and the Ulla Johnson Alistair neck-tie blouse in Almond.