Background information:

Where are you from? 

I was born in Mobile, Alabama but have been in Dallas since I was 2 yrs old. I grew up in Arlington and moved to the suburbs (DeSoto, TX) after 8th grade.

What do you do? How did this “role” come about? How are you best known by others?

I am a fashion stylist, I help people live life their best life in style! I’ve always wanted to help people, and I do that daily as a registered nurse. But this wasn’t enough for me. I was seeking for something more. I wanted to start a non-profit with a fashion component to assist women with styling tips for interview preparation and makeovers for people in remission from cancer diagnoses. I haven’t gotten to this area of my business, but in 2016 I stepped out on faith after hearing God’s voice and launched C.LewStyles via social media after a fashion photo shoot styled and directed by myself. After launching my brand via social media, I was booked 2 months later to do my first editorial photoshoot. From there I have styled several photo shoots, been published in magazines, and my work has been seen on Good Morning Texas, The Real Talk show and even OK! magazine.

Did you attend college and/or have formal training in your respective field or industry? If so, please elaborate on the year you graduated and from what institution.

I didn’t have any formal training to become a stylist. I attended a stylist class a couple years prior to starting my business. After I attended the class, I  assisted an amazing established stylist who also taught me about the business, before I stepped out on my mustard seed of faith. Every day I’m studying and learning about the business, and about fashion. Learning never stops.

What factors of your upbringing influenced your career goals? 

I was raised in a very strict household. My family was very religious, Pentecostal was the religion of choice. My wardrobe consisted of skirts, dresses, conservative and basic tops, and many styles of shoes. At school, there were a few other girls at school with families that practiced the same lifestyle and beliefs, and they too didn’t wear pants, but I felt like I was the poster child for us all. lol. I stood out, but that’s when I realized that I didn’t mind standing out, and I embraced my uniqueness. When I shopped, I would look for skirts and dresses that were unique and trendy. I had all types of skirts and dresses. I would pair them with tennis shoes, boots, anything. I even would tailor my dress or skirt to match my friend’s denim overall or pants as we all dressed alike for senior week. I learned to accept my lifestyle and tailor it in a way that allowed it to showcase my style and personality.

How long have you been in this career? What did you do previously?

C. LewStyles was launched in July 2016. I have been a registered nurse for five years. When I’m not styling clients, I am using my nursing skills. 

What long-term goals do you have? What steps are you currently taking in this direction?

I’d like to partner with organizations such as Susan G. Komen & Make a Wish foundation, to provide photoshoot styling sessions and makeovers to patients that are battling terminal illnesses. For the last 3 years, I have partnered with a pediatric cancer organization’s annual fashion show in which I style several looks for pediatric patients that are featured in the show. It’s an amazing experience and I love doing it…it allows me to give back to the community while using the gift God has given to me.

Tell us about your social media presence. Do you use it in your line of work? Why or why not, is it important in your day-to-day responsibilities, platform or career?

I am present on social media…sometimes I can be more present (I’m working on that!). Social media is important, especially to entrepreneurs such as myself. It’s free advertising for your business! However, you do have to be engaged with your followers to build your business and platforms.

Which public figures, role models and or historical figure shaped your goals as a child and in adulthood? Any that embodies your personal values?

I’m not sure I looked up to anyone as a child, but as an adult, there are a few celebrities on my list. Oprah, because she just inspires me to be the best version of myself. Tamera Mowery-Housely, and Janelle Monae because they both seem very genuine and are true to who they are. They don’t allow fame to take away from their values. I believe you should always be true to yourself no matter where life takes you, don’t forget to remain humble.

What does it mean to you to be a millennial? How do you share that with others in your life, those you meet and with your peers?