People

Coming to town

Shahs of Sunset star Lilly Ghalichi takes Miami

 
 

Ghalichi
Ghalichi
Bravo / Tommy Garcia/Bravo

Don’t let all the makeup, extensions and little lap dog fool you. Lilly Ghalichi is not your typical reality star. The Shahs of Sunset princess is sassy, earthy and educated (with a law degree to prove it). Ghalichi will be heading to Alene Too in Boca Raton 5-8 p.m. Thursday to show the results of her hard work: a lingerie/swimwear line appropriately called Swimgerie as well as falsies, Lilly’s Lashes. We spoke to the Houston native about her time on the Bravo show, about a group of Iranian-American friends living in and around Beverly Hills.

How do you like coming to Miami?

I’ve never been to Boca so I’m excited. I like the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood area a lot. It’s really quaint and beautiful. As far as South Beach, I’m not a party or nightlife girl. I don’t drink and it can be a little much for me to handle. I still love to go there a few times a year, especially on New Year’s Eve.

You entered “Shahs” in its second season. How has your experience been?

At first, the idea of being on a reality show scared me. I’m actually quite a private person and didn’t want my life shot out into the world. But it’s been such a wild ride. And the reaction you get from your fans is so rewarding — like getting emails and letters from girls saying I inspire them to stay in college. Just to think your everyday, silly, insignificant life you never thought anyone cared about can actually impact, motivate and inspire.

What are the negatives?

Just being put under a microscope. We all say things that are silly or dumb or inappropriate. We mean no harm or disrespect, but everything you say is criticized, everyone has an opinion.

How has it been for your parents in Texas, who are very traditional?

Very hard. They didn’t choose to be a part of this life. They’ve never seen the show; they only get Persian channels. They didn’t even know I was on it because I knew they would never allow it.

You are often compared to Kim Kardashian. How is that for you?

I would say 50-50. Fifty percent is really annoying because I don’t see it. Yes, I am a brunette. I have very ethnic features. I’m Persian; she’s half Armenian. [But] I went to college. I went to law school. I started my own business. I wasn’t geared toward the Hollywood world before this show. And physically, I’m built like a 9-year-old boy. I’m tall and skinny, I have no curves. I wish I did. That girl is built! I think she’s beautiful and what the family has accomplished with their fame is incredible.

So what is your status?

I’m single, ready to mingle! Tell all the boys to come down to Boca! I wouldn’t mind a long distance relationship. I’ve done that. It’s not a big deal because I am so busy. For me, it’s all about chemistry. If I have that, I don’t care if they live in Hong Kong.

If you could date any celebrity, who would it be?

I definitely have Bieber fever. He’s fabulous and fierce. But I would never date him because I am old enough to be his mother. As far as looks go, I’d have to say Adrien Grenier. The dark hair, colored eyes: That’s the look I dream about. I don’t like the uptight suit and tie. I am already so outrageous, I need to balance it out!

Madeleine Marr

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