Arielle Charnas

As the market becomes more saturated, it's harder to ascend to the same levels of fame and lucrative sponsorships in the field than ever before — but it's not impossible.

From launching eponymous brands and partnering with department stores to designer collaborations and publishing deals, social media stars brought in billions this year.

"Even if I could get to a point where I could retire, I don't think I'd ever honestly want to. If I continue to stick to what made me do this in the first place, it does not feel like work to me."

Nordstrom and Barneys are finding success in the burgeoning world of influencer brands for whom promotion and feedback are built-in.