What initially sparked your passion for fashion, and how has it evolved over the years?
I owe my love for fashion to my mother. As a child, I would often observe her mixing and matching various pieces from different brands. Initially, I was a bit confused, but as I matured, everything started to make sense. She was creating her own unique style, and that's exactly what I aspired to do - to create my own distinct style. Throughout my journey, I've had the privilege of meeting countless individuals who have greatly influenced and shaped my fashion sense. Their unique styles and personal flair continue to serve as a constant source of inspiration for me.
As both a model and a stylist, how do you balance these roles during photo shoots and events?
Surprisingly, I don't see myself as a model. I would describe myself as a creative individual. It's quite simple for me to manage these responsibilities during photoshoots and events. My creative perspective really helps me in developing unique concepts and deciding on outfits for each occasion.
Can you share a memorable experience from your shoot with Lady E in 2019 that inspired you to delve deeper into creative shoots?
Wow! I Remember it like it was yesterday! Prior to shooting with E, I was determined to achieve my desired weight in time for my 25th birthday shoot. It was my “Golden Year”. I would like to express my gratitude to my trainers and friends for their encouragement and support in helping me take part in the shoot with Lady E, Naldine Renee and Brian Thelismond. My cousin Ruinide was by my side during the shoot, providing assistance and encouragement. I was so anxious because this was a goal I had been aspiring to achieve for a long time. Lady E truly made the experience unforgettable and ensured that I felt at ease throughout the shoot. Lady E and I have been inseparable ever since. She is my partner photographer not only for me but also for my clients. This 2019 shoot with E was the foundation. The Blueprint. This shoot marked the beginning of my creative journey!
How has the support of your family and friends influenced your journey in the fashion industry?
The unwavering support of my loved ones has been instrumental in the success of Sincerely Styled LLC. They have been instrumental in shaping the person I have become. There are so many of them to acknowledge and express gratitude towards. I am incredibly grateful for them and I express my gratitude to God for them every day!
What motivated you to launch your own styling and creative directing business, Sincerely Styled LLC, in 2022?
The amazing feedback I received on my Michael Jackson inspired birthday shoot in 2021, as well as the "Pie Day" Birthday shoot I did for my dear friend and client Bianca, served as an inspiration for me to embark on my entrepreneurial journey. I was receiving a lot of messages from people interested in booking with me. They were asking if I have a website where they can book my services. That's when I made the decision to not let fear control me. It's time!
Could you describe the process of starting your own business and the challenges you encountered along the way?
When I first launched my business, I considered the "who, what, and why." I also created a business plan outlining what I wanted to do and how I wanted to manage it. I sought advice from other entrepreneurs and enrolled in classes to expand my knowledge of business. One of the challenges I encountered along the way was settling on a brand identity. Originally, I wanted to start my own clothing line, but I was aware that I didn’t have much experience in that industry.
What sets Sincerely Styled LLC apart from other styling and creative directing businesses?
What makes my business unique among other styling and creative businesses is my commitment to genuinely connect with a diverse range of clients and delivering impactful content through my work. That is why my brand's tag line embodies sincerity, with a heartfelt and unwavering devotion.
How do you approach collaborating with clients to bring their vision to life for photo shoots and events?
I believe in establishing a trustworthy connection with my clients before they decide to work with me. This is achieved through a thorough consultation, ensuring their comfort and trust in my services. Prior to scheduling an appointment with me, I emphasize the importance of having faith in both the process and the vision. Although I am the stylist, this project is a collaborative effort with the client. I draw inspiration from their own style and personality and use it as a driving force to shape the vision. Generally, they have confidence in my abilities and allow me to exercise my creativity, which opens up endless creations.
Can you share some examples of projects or clients you've worked with since launching your business that you're particularly proud of?
It's hard to select a specific project that I take pride in, as each and every one holds a special significance to me. There is a deeper meaning and narrative behind it. I would like to express my gratitude to all the clients I have had the opportunity to work with, as they have allowed me to convey my story through my work.
What do you enjoy most about being both a stylist and a creative director, and how does it inform your work?
I take great pride in the positive influence I have had as a stylist and creative director. I had clients before the shoot, who were quite anxious and after the experience, they expressed how I helped them gain confidence and made them feel acknowledged and valued. I am driven to push myself even further and to serve as a source of inspiration for others in their pursuit of their goals. I absolutely love when they grant me creative freedom, as there are instances where I want to take the editorial approach, and they are completely supportive of it.
How do you stay inspired and continually cultivate creativity in your styling and directing endeavors?
I find daily inspiration from a wide range of sources, including music videos and micro influencers. Every single day, I make sure to record my ideas for upcoming shoots and collect inspiration for my future clients. I find great inspiration from other stylists who inspire me and stylists who work with celebrities, as it keeps me up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the industry.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future of Sincerely Styled LLC, and how do you envision your role evolving within the fashion industry?
In the future, I envision creating a Sincerely Styled Showroom that offers clients the opportunity to rent pieces and have their photoshoot sessions. It would be a fantastic way to provide a unique and convenient experience for the clients. I see my role in the fashion industry developing by remaining committed to my brand identity. I recognize that not everyone may appreciate the styling, but as fashion progresses, they may come back to it for inspiration. This is exactly what we are doing today!
Wardrobe Stylist: Erlynn Sincere @esiincere
Wardrobe Stylist: Ebony Brown@ebonybstylez
Makeup Artist: Jammika Dorcelus @jdmxcv
Photographer: Lady E Photography @lady.e.photography
Hair Stylist: Melinda Mathurin @crownedbyher