I WANT HER JOB: Fatima B. (Fashion Stylist)
Turning a passion into a career isn’t always an easy feat. Yet Fatima B. has achieved that goal and made it her livelihood. In 2008, Fatima B.’s work was recognized by the editorial staff of Black Beat andRight On! magazines, two long-standing urban teen publications. Fatima was tapped as one of the magazines’ Fashion Directors. From choosing shoot locations and hiring models, to teaming with esteemed photographers such as Keith Major and guiding the theme of the fashion spreads, she has engaged in every aspect of the fashion editorial process. As a Fashion Director, Fatima has styled celebrities such as R&B singer Christina Milian, rapper Tyga, BET personality Terrence J, rapper Juelz Santana and Soulja Boy. Check out our interview with the young fashionista about her journey ➫
“Fashion sense is immediately recognized before a name is exchanged or a conversation begins,” Fatima explains. “My goal while working with clients is to ensure that their fashionable first impression is unforgettable.”
TEEN DIARIES: Please give our readers a brief description about your job.
Fatima B: Fashion stylists are responsible for creating visual images and bringing life to a photographer or director’s vision for a fashion photo shoot, layout, commercial, print advertisement, music video, etc. using clothing, accessories, and props to create a certain image or look for print or other media.
TEEN DIARIES: What is the salary range for your career field?
Fatima B: Entry level salary may range from $150-$200/day. Experienced salary may range from $500-$5,000/day. Top level stylists can earn up to $100,000 and more.
TEEN DIARIES: What steps did you take to get to where you are today (i.e. education, internships, networking, etc.)?
Fatima B: In 2007, I was fortunate enough to Intern/assist for stylists who style some of the biggest names in the Hip Hop & Entertainment industry; such as 50 Cent & Missy Elliott. Working around them I got the chance to see the in & outs of the industry. Gaining the experience I needed to go out and pursue my own career.
TEEN DIARIES: As a teen, did you know that you wanted to work in this field?
Fatima B: Yes. Growing up I got a chance to travel to different parts of the world and see different cultures & their sense of style. Like Tokyo Street style, Paris & Thailand, which is why my style is very versatile.
TEEN DIARIES: If you couldn’t be in this industry, what other career would you choose?
Fatima B: To be Honest, I don’t see myself doing anything else. This is my passion. I’m a New Yorker so its kind of something I’ve been around all my life.
TEEN DIARIES: Did you make any mistakes while pursuing this career that you want to warn others about?
Fatima B: Early on in my career, I learned to be careful of who I trusted because there are times when people will not have your best interests at heart. Knowing this, I have been able to avoid any major mistakes - so far.
TEEN DIARIES: What sacrifices do you have to make for your job?
Fatima B: I sacrifice on a daily basis. Being a stylist is very time consuming, you don’t really have a personal life.
TEEN DIARIES: What is one piece of advice you can give to young women pursuing your career?
Fatima B: This business is extremely competitive. You have to have a good business sense, as well as creative sense; do a lot of research, get familiar with designers, photographers, magazine editors etc. You can never have too much information, master your craft!
More About Fatima B.
During her early childhood, she spent a majority of her time in Japan, gaining access to a world of eclectic fashion and style which she has used as inspiration for many of the projects she’s been hired for under her wardrobe styling and consulting company, The Tea Cup Group.
As a celebrity wardrobe stylist with several years of experience under her fashionable belt, Fatima B. has relied on her perseverance to climb the ladder of success. In 2007, the budding stylist began making her mark in the entertainment industry, interning and assisting major players in the fashion realm by styling recording artists for photo shoots, album packaging, magazine spreads and music videos.
Among the stylists she’s assisted, Brandon Atherley is one of them. Fatima worked alongside Brandon, choosing the wardrobe for his client, rapper Missy Elliot. She assisted in creating Missy’s overall look for her “Ching-A-Ling” video, Pepsi music concert and Adidas “Respect M.E.” ad campaign.
Her editorial work also spans to Rap-Up magazine. The wardrobe stylist chose the fashions worn by rapper Asher Roth and producer Ron Browz in a G-Shock Advertorial, which can be seen in Rap-Up’s Summer 2009 issue.
Besides stateside, Fatima has traveled abroad, sharing her expertise at Bahamas Fashion Week, providing footwear for the runway shows. She has also interned at fashion entrepreneur Kelly Cutrone’s public relations, branding and marketing firm People’s Revolution.
While her efforts have never gone unnoticed, Fatima B. has not entered the fashion industry simply for the recognition. “I enjoy meeting someone who has little to no sense of style, and showing them what they have the potential to look like,” she says. “Good fashion inspires confidence.”
Tags: Careers, Fashion Stylist, Fatima B., I Want Her Job
No comments:
Post a Comment