The Fashion School Dropout: Recent Episodes
Brittany Diego
Learn what it REALLY takes to make it in the fashion industry from celebrity stylist Brittany Diego and her industry insider friends.
Let's talk about money, as we dedicate this episode entirely to the ways you can best collect your hard-earned coins. Brittany shares her top three go-to payment platforms and how to establish a professional manner of handling your finances. She also shares her approach when it comes to dealing with invoices and taxes. This straightforward episode filled with valuable information is perfect for those who are struggling with the financial aspects of the business.
Follow us on our Instagram page @fashionmentor.co
Building connections and expanding your network is everything in the fashion industry. To do that, you want to sound like you know exactly what you are doing. In this podcast, talk the talk and learn the words that every stylist should have in their vocabulary. Take out your notes and make sure to remember these vital keywords to help you sound from an amateur to a pro! These words, phrases, and concepts also provide great insight into how you can take off your styling career. It is an episode you won't want to miss.
Make sure you visit the @thefashionschooldropout Instagram page to join the conversation & subscribe to our Youtube channel- Fashion Mentor.
Working as a stylist in production involves its own processes, culture, and set of keywords that you should absolutely know about. Tune in to this episode as Brittany walks you through the must-know terms in order to help you ace your job as a stylist on the production set. When you work in such a hectic production setting as this one, mastering the stylist lingo is very important.
Don’t forget to share what you have learned on @thefashionschooldropout and @fashionmentor.co Insta pages. For more fashion lingos here: Fashion Mentor YT
What to do when you lack motivation
We are half way through the year and it is insane how time flies. Now’s the time to be back on track and reflect on what to do with the remaining months of the year. I get it that no one is motivated 365 24/7 and a lot of us are still unmotivated and stuck in a rut. But don’t panic, because this episode we will be talking about how to get back on track and stay motivated. Grab your pens and paper to list down all the things you need to know to stay on track.
Feel free to share this episode to your unmotivated friends and family.
Follow on our Instagram page for more fashion motivations: @fashionmentor.co
Word of mouth is powerful and your reputation is everything in the styling industry. Therefore, maintaining good relationships, particularly with showrooms, can greatly benefit your career.
In this episode, you'll get a good idea of how the relationship works between stylists and showrooms and why they are your best friends. Brittany also goes in-depth with the do's and don'ts when working with them, so make sure you don't miss out.
Get your showroom list here: Fashion Mentor Resources
Don’t forget to subscribe to our Youtube Channel for more fashion showrooms: Fashion Mentor YT
We hear y'all! In the last episode, we talked about the upcoming Stylist Summit and the exciting details for the event. However, there are a lot of FAQS about the upcoming In-person Stylist Summit and in today's episode I am excited to answer all these questions. Hang on till the end, this will be filled with valuable information that will answer all your inquiries.
Note: This 3 day experience will include workshops led by Celebrity Stylist and Founder of Fashion Mentor, Brittany Diego, a stylist panel, hands-on exercises, and showroom tours. We can't wait to see you there!
For more details + registration: Stylist Summit 2022
Don't forget to follow on our Instagram page: @fashionmentor.co
I am excited to share the news in today's episode! It has been 2 years since the last in-person stylist event and we are thrilled to meet you this coming June 10-12th for the 3-day Stylist Summit Event. Make sure to listen till the end, all the information will be provided with great insights about the event.
So CALLING ALL ASPIRING FASHION STYLISTS: If you dream of styling celebrities and models red carpets, and magazines, this 3-day experience is for you. We can't wait to meet you there!
For more details + registration: Stylist Summit 2022
Don't forget to follow on our Instagram page: @fashionmentor.co
If you’re an aspiring stylist, you NEED to hear this! Once a guy with a dream from Detroit, now a Los Angeles based celebrity stylist with some of the biggest stars under his belt, Jamar Hart is living proof that there’s no limit to where hard work and humbleness can take you. In this episode we get into how social media influences the styling industry, and what stylists actually look for when hiring assistants. We also learn how Ms. Tina Lawson (Yup, Beyonce's mom) influenced the course of his career, and how he's leveraging his styling career to make moves in other parts of the industry-like his upcoming clothing line for starters. There's no stopping him! From intern insights to overcoming adversities, we lay it all out on the table in this episode. Follow Jamar on IG: www.instagram.com/jamar_hart
Styling, costume design, creative direction-you name it, Melynda Choothesa has done it all. In this conversation you will learn all about what skills you really need to make it in each of those parts of the industry, straight from the woman who's done it all. Melynda drops so many gems from walking future costume designers through what to expect on the job to how to use time management to maximize your pay as a freelance stylist. With companies such as Google, Sony, Atlantic Records, and Universal under her belt to numerous red carpets and styling Bhad Bhabie in her debut music video we're covering all of it and then some in this power packed hour.
Follow Melynda on IG: www.instagram.com/couturezen
From foster care and homelessness to having his designs worn by the hottest celebs all while being unapologetically Black. I'm talking to fashion designer Tarontino Toussaint. Taron ( @designedbytarontino ) shares his inspiring story and personifies how staying true to yourself is the real cutting edge of success in the fashion industry. We also talk leveraging social media to your advantage and find out the unexpected source where he finds the most inspiration. Get your pen ready to take notes on all of the gems he drops in this episode! Follow Taron on IG: www.instagram.com/designedbytarontino
How bad do you really want that fashion job? Social media has a way of only telling one side of the story when it comes to being a fashion stylist, but when the IG live is over, the models go home, and they roll up the red carpet, what's left is real role of a wardrobe stylist. Manny Jay is no stranger to the daily grind and in this episode, we spill all the tea. This no nonsense advice for aspiring stylists comes from a seasoned vet, who survived cancer and didn't that keep him away from serving looks. Go ahead and get comfy because you won’t find a story like this anywhere else.
Throw on your pinstripes and patent pumps, because Brittany and trademark attorney, Andrea Sager, are taking you to law school! The LAST thing any designer or creative wants is to get caught up with copyrights. In this episode, Andrea steps in to walk you through protecting designs and avoiding legal trouble. If Diet Prada haunts your haute nightmares too, you have to hear this! Follow Andrea on IG: www.instagram.com/andreasagerlaw
Our latest episode features fashion publicist and founder of Vytal Group Showroom, Derek Richmond all about his humble beginnings in a Mormon family to having his clients' designs featured on the likes of Trey Songz, Karen Civil, Steve Aoki, Kali Uchis, and more. We talked about how he got his first job in fashion, what working in different parts of fashion entails (he's done PR, modeling, AND styling), plus what stylists need to know when reaching out to showrooms and how to get a "YES" to that pull request. Plus, listen up for some amazing advice for up-and-coming designers and fashion publicists. Find Vytal Group at on IG: www.instagram.com/vytal_group
For the latest episode, I caught up with London based jewelry designer Justine Cullen to learn how she made the leap to start her successful jewelry line and what it takes to run an international accessory company. If you have a business that you want to take to the next level, whether that's styling or designing then this episode is for you! So grab your notebook and pen to take notes, Justine is dropping business gems (pun intended) all hour long.
From the outside looking in, the glamour and clout often linked to a career in fashion can be hypnotizing and leave you lusting for that Insta-perfect looking life. Unfortunately things are not always what they seem. Brittany sits down with Andrea Martinez to clear the smoky mirrors and expose the truth, while offering crucial advice to up-and-coming designers. Is the fashion industry really worth the headache and heartache? Listen to this BEFORE you even think about entering fashion. Follow Andrea on IG: www.instagram.com/_astronot
Get real comfortable and listen up because me and Derek are sharing all of our stylist stories today and giving you ALL the scoop on what its like working as a fashion/celebrity stylist. In this unfiltered, real, and raw episode we're discussing everything from what to expect in the industry, when to stop doing free work, knowing your worth and everything else in between! Find Derek on IG: www.instagram.com/derekbeckman
As an up and coming stylist, it's important to start building your portfolio by doing test shoots. Not only do test shoots let you show off your eye for style, but it will help you be able to book your own jobs down the line. The last thing you want is to intern/assist for 5 years, get asked to style a job by yourself but have no portfolio to show to the photographer/creative director. No matter how many shoots you've helped on, you absolutely can't include another stylists work in your portfolio, even if you assisted. It's their work, period. But have no fear, even if you don't live in a big city like LA or NYC, here are some ways to start building your portfolio.
You don't have to live in LA or New York to be a stylist, in fact, you can start booking personal styling clients like...today! Tune in as I chat with Dallas, Texas-based menswear stylist and designer Bria Charlise. We're spilling all the real tea in this episode from a business perspective. In this episode, we discuss everything you need to know about the power of branding, getting your foot in the door in a small market, stepping out on faith and Bria shares inspiring gems about working with the hand she was dealt, what led her to menswear, and why you need a business coach. Get into it!
The hardest part is over (the interview) but now the waiting game begins. Here's what you can do AFTER the interview to make sure you stand out to your potential employer, get ready to take notes!
Before you get the job, you need to interview. Before you get an interview, you need to win them over with your resume-that’s where I come in to help. I’ve applied to a lot of positions and gained so much experience learning what makes for a successful resume and what doesn’t. Some things seem so obvious but you’d be surprised how many people make seemingly innocent mistakes. Listen to this episode so you don't make a mistake that might cost you your dream job or internship.
I get messages from stylists all the time who wonder why they're not booking as many clients as they know they could be. If you've been wondering the same, listen up to hear the top 3 common culprits and how you can go from overlooked to overbooked in 2020!
Want to learn more about marketing yourself as a stylist and how to network to raise your net worth? Join my Stylist Masterclass, my self-paced online course that gives you the blueprint to becoming #bookedandbusy!
Learn more info here: https://fashionmentor.teachable.com/p/start-my-styling-career/
See you in class!
Every industry has their set of vocabulary words. The words "pull", "test", and "book" have a completely different definition to stylists than they do to the outside world. When you first start out it might be intimidating to be around others speaking in industry jargon, but that ends today. Here are some keywords and terms you need to know as a stylist. Get your styling kit starter list here: https://www.fashionmentor.co/blog/2018/4/15/5-items-for-your-stylist-kit
Sit back and get ready to sip some piping hot tea in today's episode. You hear it all the time: styling is not as glamorous as it seems but what exactly does that mean? Listen as Brittany and menswear stylist Derek Beckman (who has styled Tyga, Don Benjamin, and more) share what really goes on behind the scenes. Like what do you do when you show up to a shoot you pulled out all the stops for and the client hates....EVERYTHING or how do you react when everyone on set starts going through your rack and giving their input on what the client should wear. We're spilling our craziest set stories and sharing words of inspiration on how to get through the tough moments you might encounter in your career, you know the moments of self-doubt we all experience but no one ever talks about. No topic was off limits today, so listen up!
There's a LOT I wish I knew about being a stylist before I step foot in this industry...like how you don't get paid for a month or two or sometimes three months after the job is done (Google: Net 30). Money is one of the most important topics when it comes to your career but it's often kept on the hush. In this episode, I'm sharing the top 3 things I wish I knew about money before I started as a stylist. What's something you wish you knew when you first started out?
Live in a small town but have big dreams? Listen up for MY top tips on starting your styling career no matter where you are on the globe and going over career options you might not have previously considered. What type of styling are you most interested in?
Ever wonder what the fashion and retail industries will look like post-pandemic? Listen up to this talk with retail expert Jeanel Alvarado for her predictions on what will happen to our industries and what changes companies and brands need to make in order to make it out alive after this. Hint: A lot of the brands you see flourishing even during this time are doing so because they built a community and Jeanel is sharing her tips on how to build a strong tribe and the power of collaboration over competition. You'll also hear inspirational words on why you need to go ahead and claim your title whether that be stylist or designer or boss babe--you name it--and stop waiting for someone to give you permission to step into your greatness. Tap in to get into it! Follow RetailBoss, Inc on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retailboss.inc/ https://www.instagram.com/startupretail/ https://www.instagram.com/jeanelalvarado/
If you dream of working in fashion, I’m sure you're no stranger to the phrase “It’s all about who you know or who knows you”. Truer words have never been spoken. The thought of networking can be overwhelming to some (aka me) it's absolutely necessary in this industry. In this episode, I’m going to share with you my top tips for navigating networking events (this can apply for virtual events as well). Get into it!
This episode is dedicated to those of you who may not be based in a major fashion city such as New York City or LA. In this episode, we’re so excited to welcome Alexandria W. Alli, the founder and designer of F&W Style; luxury leather handbags for busy women on the go! Alexandria and her family moved from Nigeria to Atlanta, Georgia when she was 13 where she soon began her modeling career. After falling in love with the beauty and glamor of the industry and all of the well-crafted luxurious handbags she got to wear as a model, Alexandria came to realise that most women couldn’t afford these luxurious accessories. As a result, the inspiration for her F&W Style handbag line was born! In this podcast, we discuss with Alexandria the fashion industry in Atlanta, her rookie mistakes and advice, important characteristics every designer should have in order to be successful, business advice for aspiring designers and so much more! Turn up the volume, take notes and enjoy! Don’t forget to share the love over on @thefashionschooldropout and @fwstyle Insta pages.
Listen up: this is how you build a million-dollar clothing line! From Baltimore to LA, Irregular Jess re-defines entrepreneurship in the fashion industry. Before the age of 30, Jess scaled her fashion businesses to net over $1M and now owns her very own design factory, 3 fashion brands, and more!
In this episode, Jess discusses her achievements, challenges, how she succeeded, and all of the skills you will need to accomplish your goals. Make sure you visit the @thefashionschooldropout Instagram page to join the conversation & follow @irregular_jess on IG as she is absolutely one to watch (and listen)!
Follow Jessica: https://www.instagram.com/irregular_jess/
Follow Fashionpreneur Academy: https://www.instagram.com/fashionpreneuracademy/
Follow Irregular Exposure: https://www.instagram.com/irregularexposure/
Aspiring fashion designers and fashion stylists certainly won’t want to miss this. In this week’s podcast episode, the Fashion School Dropout passes the mic over to the incredibly talented Marta Goldschmied.
Not only is Marta fashion royalty, being the daughter of AG Jeans Founder Adriano Goldschmied, but is also the founder of her own iconic denim brand and her newest line, Garbage. Listen in as she discusses a few of her incredible fashion industry stories and sheds light on what its like building and running a brand.
Subscribe now to never miss an episode and be sure to visit Marta on Instagram at @missgoldschmied.
The road to success is never easy. In this special episode, we talk to Jasmene Bowdry, the founder of SHIFT StyleHouse and coach for fashion boutiques, who teaches us valuable lessons on how to build and run a successful online boutique. Her lessons originate from her own experiences and hardships which will also be discussed in today’s podcast episode. From receiving eviction notices, being jobless, dumped, rejected, depressed and Trigger Warning even suicidal, Jasmene has now proudly, and humbly, received her MBA, earns six-figures being an entrepreneur, worked as a celebrity fashion stylist (internationally!), featured on national television fashion segments and had her brand featured at a large retailer. Tune in to listen in awe at Jasmene’s incredibly inspiring story. Visit us at @thefashionschooldropout Insta to share your thoughts!
Storytime! In today’s podcast episode, we’re talking and sharing tales with stylist and costume designer Yvette Richardson. Yvette has some incredible, unbelievable stories to share including working with the legendary Gianni Versace up until the time of his passing.
If you’re considering becoming a celebrity stylist or costume designer, this podcast and Yvette’s experiences will certainly convince you to pursue those paths! Whether you’re searching for some styling career advice and inspiration or simply looking for some great podcast entertainment, look no further!
Press play and enjoy. Visit us over on Instagram at @thefashionschooldropout to share your thoughts and enjoy more content like this! Get in touch with Yvette at: https://www.instagram.com/stylishlyyvette/
If you’re looking to pursue work as a fashion stylist in menswear, then this episode is for you! On this week’s podcast episode, we are sitting down to interview the Comedian Kevin Hart’s stylist.
Listen in to learn pearls of wisdom and golden advice tailored to those aspiring to be menswear stylists. Whether you’re interested in personal or wardrobe styling, red carpet, celebrity or costume styling, here are the best tips to succeeding as a menswear stylist. There’s a large market out there for menswear styling calling your name. So, tune-in and take note to these wise words.
Don’t forget to share the love over on @thefashionschooldropout and @ashleynorthstyle Insta pages.
Unless you’ve been living off the grid, you know how social media is both a stylist’s bestie and #1 marketing tool. If you’re not making $$ and gaining clients from your social media, you’re doing it wrong. People are spending a lot less time going to websites, and going straight to socials, which acts as a more concise overall view of not just your talents and what you can do, but who you are. You know how fast you scroll on IG, if you can’t get a potential client's attention in 5 seconds you’re out. It’s easier than ever to gain exposure and showcase your skills. I'm going to show you how to use IG to reel in clientele and bring those scrolling thumbs to an intriguing halt.
In this episode, take a seat alongside Brittany (LA Based Celebrity Stylist), Bria (Dallas Based Menswear Stylist) and Kyanna (LA Based Wardrobe Curator) at the roundtable as they discuss their own personal experiences of being Black women in the fashion industry.
This is an incredibly valuable, important and enlightening conversation that you certainly won’t want to miss. Tune in as they share their triumphs, challenges, shady/funny moments, advice plus so much more. Join the conversation and engage with us over on the @thefashionschooldropout Instagram page.
Follow Kyanna here: https://www.instagram.com/kyanna_renee/
Follow Bria here: https://www.instagram.com/iambriacharlise/
Follow Brittany here: https://www.instagram.com/brittanydiego/
Our guest today, Alexa Molinaro, details her extraordinary series of events including meeting her idol - Rachel Zoe - on a plane, landing a dream job working with her, and then going on to work with other huge brands such as Nasty Gal. Plus some not-so-fabulous tales like when she ended up paying $2k out of pocket because a styling client refused to pay.
Alexa is an incredibly talented stylist, fashion designer, content producer & boss entrepreneur who is here to share her highs, lows, and advice for succeeding, and thriving, in the fashion industry - including the importance of establishing a client contract! You don’t want to miss this one, tune in now and don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on the @thefashionschooldropout Insta page.
Follow Alexa on IG: https://www.instagram.com/alexa.molinaro/
If you’re ready to make your next career move, then listen up! Moving up to Key Stylist, or head stylist, is a huge but exciting step. You go from being the right hand, to the leader. In this episode, we discuss how to know when you’re ready, how to make the move and how to succeed. As an intern and then assistant, you closely observed your key stylists, gained experience, built a portfolio, took notes and learnt lots.
Now you have a solid foundation of knowledge and experience, and feel confident to go out on your own. Amazing! Get ready to grind though! Being the key stylist will involve so much more responsibility like nothing you’ve experienced before as an assistant or intern. The Fashion School Dropout is here to help you through the transition. Grab a seat, turn up the volume and enjoy.
In this episode, we are chatting with fashion designer Calle Evans about how she took her love and passion for luxe fabrications and sustainability and turned it into not just one, but two successful luxury womenswear brands. We're discussing the ins and outs of running your own company and when you'll know when to scale your business. You'll also learn how she figured out that all important "niche" and how uses the power of digital platforms to attract her high-end clientele. Take notes of future designers!
Follow Calle on IG: www.instagram.com/calleevans
If you're even remotely interested in becoming a stylist you've probably read Sasha's book, The Secrets of Stylists. We take Sasha's 30+ years of industry experience and summing up everything she's learned about navigating the industry for you. We also go in on how to move up in the fashion industry as a fashion editor transitioning to high fashion asking for what you want, negotiating your worth. Taking a leap of faith in the face of fear, being persistent and taking risks. This is one you're going to want to take notes from!