BGG Chats with R&B Singer Ashanti

May 14, 2008

I recently had a chance to chat with Grammy award-winning R&B singer, Ashanti. Known for her catchy lyrics and heartfelt tunes, this Long Island native is back and hotter than ever. Her latest single, “The Way that I Love You,” is climbing the charts and is in heavy rotation across the country. She’s declaring that she’s no longer “Foolish.”

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: Tell me a bit about your new album, “The Declaration.” What makes it different from your other CDs?

Ashanti: Well this is my first album in 4 years. I’ve done a lot of growing up and I did basically everything on my own this time around with the project. I executively produced the entire thing…behind-the-scenes and the creative process. So I’m really excited about it. It’s very versatile and you can just tell sonically, musically, vocally and lyrically I’m at a different place than with my last album; so I’m very excited!

BGG: What producers did you work with this time around?

Ashanti: I worked with a whole bunch of producers. Every single one didn’t make the album, but the fact that I was able to work with them was really an amazing experience for me. From Babyface to L.T. Hutton (who actually worked on her latest single), Pharrell, Jermaine Dupri, Brian Cox, Polow, Rodney Jerkins, Robin Thicke, 7 Aurelius – a lot of very talented producers.

BGG: What’s your relationship with the Inc.?

Ashanti: The Inc. is signed to Universal so it’s the Inc/Universal. And that’s what it is (laughing)!

BGG: What’s your next single?

Ashanti: I’m not sure yet, which is a really good position to be in because we have 2 or 3 really great candidates. We’ll see!

BGG: I know that you write all of your songs. What’s the inspiration behind your lyrics?

Ashanti: Just real life. Usually it’s something that I’m going through or something that I’ve gone through or something that people who are in my circle are going through or have gone through. No matter what, it’s always something that is real. I’ve always been really genuine and sincere with my lyrics and I think that’s why a lot of people can relate to my records. I’ve just always had a passion for writing so I feel like when you hear a record and you can relate to it, it’s like “Ah,” it’s such a wonderful feeling. It’s like, “I’m not the only one going through this!”

BGG: Are you going on tour this summer for the album?

Ashanti: Definitely, I’m not sure when, but I’m definitely excited about touring.

BGG: Tell me your secret to staying in great shape!

Ashanti: It’s about being healthy. I do have a trainer. I do try to hit the gym as much as I can. I don’t eat a lot of fried foods and I don’t eat red meat or pork. That’s just my own personal preference. It’s just about being in shape and again trying to hit the gym. If you really ‘wild-out’ with pizza, chicken, cake and all kinds of stuff then you really should hit the gym. You have to make up for it.

BGG: I know you once wrote a book of poetry (Foolish/Unfoolish), do you think you’d ever do something like that again?

Ashanti: Yes! I had a really good time writing that. I’ve been thinking about doing another book. I’m not sure if it will be poetry, maybe or maybe not. I have had an idea of doing a book called, “Ashanti’s Style.” It would basically be about beauty secrets and fashion tips. A lot of behind the scenes stuff that most people don’t talk about too much like, the miracles of double-stick tape! (laughing) Look for that maybe later this year or early next year.

BGG: If you could do a duet with someone that you admire, who would it be?

Ashanti: Wow, I don’t know. I’ve honestly taken it one step at a time and working with a variety of producers is already a huge step for me. I’ve always worked with in-house producers. But as far as collaborating, I feel like anytime you get two artists in the studio, you could potentially come up with something incredible just with a lot of talent and creative juice flowing, but I don’t have anybody particularly in mind right now. I’m still stuck on the high of, “wow, I’ve worked with so many different producers this year alone!”

BGG: What are a few of your must-have beauty products?

Ashanti: Lip-gloss!! MAC! Recently, I’ve actually been into the MAC color glosses for the last couple of months.

BGG: I’ve seen a few photos of you in shades similar to what you’re wearing now.

Ashanti: Yeah, I like it. Oh and lotion. I have 3 things of lotion (travel size) in this bag right now. You never know when you’re going to have to lotion up those toes! (laughing)

BGG: Your latest video, “The Way That I Love You,” is like a mini-movie; are you working on any new movie projects?

Ashanti: I definitely want to venture more into the movie side of things. I had a really good time filming all of the films that I’ve been in. It’s a different experience than recording. It’s good so I definitely want to get back into it. I’ve been out in L.A a couple of times this month working on a couple of things so I have my fingers crossed!

Check out her video here:

BGG: Is there in any role that you’re more drawn to than others?

Ashanti: For me I would love to get everything in one big ball – drama, comedy, action and romance! That would be ideal for me.

BGG: What would you like your fans to know about you that they might not already know?

Ashanti: Well, I don’t know because they usually know everything! (laughing).
Wow, I guess I would tell them about…(long pause) My favorite bike was my Strawberry Shortcake bike that I received when I was 5-years-old. It was pink and I got a pink jacket to go with it. The bike had a basket with strawberries on it!! I loved it! It was my best toy for like so many years! (Her mom adds, more like “FOREVER!”) And I would always wear my pink jacket with my pink and red bike!

BGG: Is there anything else that you want readers to know?

Ashanti: ALBUM IN STORES JUNE 3rd!!! Oh yeah, I also have this website site called, Gotchagram.com, which is a viral tool that you can use if you find out if that your boyfriend or girlfriend is cheating on you, you send them this email blast that you can fill out and customize. It shows a snippet of my video (The Way That I Love You) and basically it says my boyfriend is cheating on me and the way I’m going to get him back is that I’m going to put a boot up in his ass! You can use a boot, Timbaland, high-heel, a machete or whatever it is and you kind of put him on blast so you can be like, “I caught you!” And he could be guilty of not being emotionally available, he cheated, or he’s trying to talk to your cousin and you just put him on blast! You have to see it! Just log-on to www.thewaythatiloveyou.com.

Category: Celebrity BGs, Interviews, Music | 50 Comments

So Glossy!

March 25, 2008

I recently had a chance to talk with Keisha Nash-Whitaker about her line, Kissable Couture. For those of you who don’t know, this beautiful and ambitious woman is the wife of Oscar-award winner, Forest Whitaker.

Being a wife and mother of preteen/teen girls is a full-time job that keeps her pretty busy. Lucky for us, she finds the time to keep our lips kissable with her line of perfectly textured glosses that go on fluidly sans the gooey stickiness akin to other brands. Plus, all of the shades are named after the men in her and her friends’ lives. Of course, the Forest hue is her favorite!

If you want a smooth, sexy shine with the right hint of color, these glosses are for you!

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: What inspired you to create a line of lip-gloss?
Keisha: I collaborated with AJ Crimson and we always talked about working on something together. I started out as a model and he’s a makeup artist. So with my background in fashion and his in makeup/beauty, it was a natural transition to merge the two.

BGG: How did you come up with the name Kissable Couture?
Keisha: Well, with AJ being in makeup – the lips are kissable and with me being in fashion, came the couture part. Put them together you have Kissable Couture!

BGG: What was the biggest challenge you faced getting your line off the ground?
Keisha: I wanted be taken seriously. I didn’t want to be seen as this fly-by-night celebrity-endorsed product. I wanted to be known for having a fantastic product. I just had to keep knocking on doors until they eventually opened.

BGG: I know that you created a special Valentine’s Day collection a few months ago, do you think you’ll continue to produce special collections?
Keisha: Absolutely! Life is a special occasion! As we continue to grow, we will continue to surprise customers with new festive collections.

BGG: Do you plan on expanding Kissable Couture to more than just lip-gloss?
Keisha: Absolutely! This fall we will add nail polish that will accent and complement the lip-glosses. In the summer we, we will add 3 to 5 new colors that will evoke hope and change. With the state of the world right now, people want to be positive and uplifting and we want to do that with Kissable Couture.

BGG: How do you balance being a businesswoman, wife and being a mom of 3 girls?
Keisha: For me, I always put family first. I work on Kissable Couture during the day when my kids are at school. Evenings and nights are reserved for my family. I am very multi-faceted. I believe women are able to balance it all.

BGG: Do you have any other makeup must-haves besides Kissable Couture?
Keisha: Yes! I love Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Brick in Bronze. It’s great!

BGG: You have a killer sense of style; do you ever think about launching a fashion line?
Keisha: Definitely, I’ve thought about it a lot. If I did it would consist of chic & comfortable clothes; something that feels like me. I have been known to be in a grocery store in the afternoon wearing pumps – I’m an everyday chic girl!

BGG: In your spare time, what do you do to relax and have fun?
Keisha: I’m always with my hairdresser David; he’s a lot of fun! I also enjoy doing Pilates, yoga, going to the movies in the afternoon with my hubby, attending book club meetings, going to lunch and just hanging out with friends and family.

BGG: What advice do you have for young women of color who aspire to start their own makeup lines?
Keisha: Stay in the game and believe in your product. Know that it’s about quality and perseverance. Iman was my role model. Now there are so many role models out there. Young kids can see presidential candidates that look like them and know that anything is possible. I would say to dream and dream BIG!

Visit www.kissablecouture.com to order online and for store locations near you.

Category: Beauty, Celebrity BGs, Interviews | 18 Comments

New Artist Spotlight – Karina Pasian

March 12, 2008

While most teenagers wish their voices can be heard about different issues, Karina Pasian speaks for them in her catchy, debut single, “16 at War,” which is an anthem of independence and admiration. The newly signed Def Jam R&B recording artist is only 16, but well on her way to becoming the next “it” girl to hit the airwaves. Her song is already in heavy rotation at New York City radio stations.

This New York native’s strong voice has caught the ear of many heavy-hitters in the industry, including the legendary musical genius — Quincy Jones, who happens to be her godfather. Her powerful, yet pristine voice has even been heard at the White House where she performed last year for an Emilio Estevez-produced event. Karina has also worked with popular artists such as Chris Brown, The Dream, Ne-Yo and others.

Having had a passion for singing since a toddler, Karina is a record company’s dream — she’s talented, likable and is cute as a button!

I recently had a chance to speak with the musical ingenue.

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: How did you get signed to Def Jam?

Karina: My A&R, Shakir Stewart, called L.A Reid and told him that he had to come and hear me. L.A Reid was actually on his way to Paris, but came back, heard me and signed me on the spot. Jay-Z closed the deal. There was actually a bidding war for me between record companies, but I decided to go with Def Jam.

BGG: Who are your musical inspirations?

Karina: Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald and Beyonce.

BGG: Describe your musical style and what people can expect to hear on your forthcoming release?

Karina: It’s more like real R&B with pop/dance and hip-hop. It’s definitely real R&B.

BGG: What sets you apart from other artists out right now?

Karina: I think the main thing that separates me from other people who are out, is the message that I deliver. I sing and perform songs that have substance, integrity and story lines that touch people. I really want my music to change people’s lives.

BGG: Who would you like to work with in the industry that you haven’t worked with already?

Karina: Stevie Wonder! I admire him a lot. It would really be a pleasure to work with him.

BGG: What do you want to be known for in the music industry?

Karina: I want to be known as a real artist who is not labeled as Hispanic, but a person who respects herself and has substance.



Here is her song, “16 at War.” She doesn’t have a video for it yet, but I thought you guys might want to hear it!

BGG: What do you do in your spare time for fun?

Karina: I’m just a regular girl. I still go to school. I love to talk on the phone and go to the movies. You know, just regular girl stuff!

BGG: Who do you enjoy listening to on your iPod?

Karina: I love Brandy. I also listen to a lot of gospel including Kim Burrell & Yolanda Adams, as well as Chris Brown, The Dream (he wrote her single, “16 at War” and Rihanna’s “Umbrella”), Beyonce, etc.

BGG: Have you come up with the title for your CD yet, which will be released this summer?

Karina: No, not yet, we’re still working on it!

BGG: What advice do you have for other young singers looking to get signed to a major label?

Karina: My advice would be to always stay grounded, work hard and put your all into it. Also, get a good team; they will keep you grounded.

Category: Interviews, Music | 18 Comments

Meet Celebrity Hairstylist: Takisha Sturdivant-Drew

February 25, 2008

If you watched the Oscars last night, you know that there were some beautiful hairdos on the red carpet. Although celebrities’ hair always look gorgeous at events, they don’t get their coifs that way on their own — they have top-notch hairstylists to create eye-catching styles. Pantene’s Celebrity Stylist, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew is one of them.

Takisha is actress Kerry Washington’s current hairstylist and has styled luminaries such as Malinda Williams, Naomi Harris, Brandy, Erika Alexander, Rachel Nick, Cover Girl model Kiara and actor Nick Cannon — to name a few.

This New York native’s work can be seen in films such as the Oscar nominated “Ray,” “She Hate Me,” “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” “The Fantastic Four,” among others. Takisha’s styles have also been featured in the print and television commercial ads for clients Pantene, L’Oreal, and Aveda as well as in Vanity Fair, W, InStyle, Essence, Nylon, Hollywood Life, Black Enterprise, and Ebony magazines.

Even though we might not be able to showcase our manes at star-studded events, we BGs take pride in our hair nonetheless. Whether we wear it natural, curly, textured, straight, braided or somewhere in between, our hair is always on point. That’s why I interviewed Takisha to bring you guys the hair 411.

Check out our Q&A!

BGG: When did you know that you wanted to become a professional hairstylist?
Takisha: I knew when I was 14 years old that I wanted to become a hair stylist so I went to a Vocational School in Queens and I was at the top of my class the whole time.

BGG: How did you get your start as a celebrity hairstylist?
Takisha: I got my start six years ago when one of my clients referred Kerry Washington to me. From then on I left the salon I was working at and started working for myself and opened Takisha & Associates in Brooklyn, NY. It’s been five years now and business is great!

BGG: What is Kerry Washington’s favorite hairstyle?
Takisha: Her favorite hairstyle is something that is not to neat. She loves a soft brushed out wavy look.

BGG: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about African-American hair?
Takisha: That it take a lot of heat. Blow drying, and then using a curling iron at the same time is too much heat for our hair.

BGG: What will be the hot looks for the upcoming spring season?
Takisha: Hot looks for this spring will be short cropped hair styles. Some fun colors like blonde, platinum and red as well.

BGG: What single styling beauty tool should every BG (Brown Girl) have in her home salon?
Takisha: Good question! Everyone should have a flat iron to smooth out their hair really quickly when it becomes frizzy and Pantene products to protect the hair from heat and perfect your styles.


FHI Technique Series 1″ Ceramic Flat Iron for $84 available at www.amazon.com.

BGG: What style do you enjoy creating the most for your clients? Why?
Takisha: I love a curly hair style. It is very sexy, messy, and you can sleep on it but still have a great look the next couple of days.

BGG: Are there any products that you recommend for maintaining healthy hair for both relaxed and natural hair?
Takisha: I recommend using Pantene Relaxed and Natural conditioning shampoo, and the Pantene Relaxed and Natural Deep Conditioning Mask. These products restore moisture and keep hair healthy. You can purchase it at any drug store.


Available at drugstores nationwide.

BGG: What advice can you give a young woman who wants to become a celebrity hairstylist?
Takisha: Know your craft, build an amazing portfolio, get an agent, and always be a professional. After that it’s really word of mouth.

BGG: Thanks for taking the time to speak with me!
Takisha: No problem, thank you.

Be sure to check out Takisha’s website: www.takishahair.net Also, please share some of your tips for maintaining strong, healthy hair!

Category: Beauty, Hair, Interviews | 8 Comments

BGG Speaks with eBay Style Director Constance White

February 13, 2008

Recently, I had the opportunity to interview eBay Style Director, Constance White. In that role she educates consumers about the #1 fashion site on the Internet — ebay. She also authors a blog on eBay called “Fashion is My Life,” where fashionistas can read about her take on the collections shown in NYC and L.A.

The prominent journalist’s impeccable fashion sense and style expertise has landed her various appearances on TV shows such as “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” “E! Fashion File,” “Project Runway,” “Today,” and many others.

White has held posts as a style reporter for the renowned New York Times, executive fashion editor at Elle, as well as a position at Women’s Wear Daily. Her work has also appeared in British Vogue, People, Essence, and The Chicago Tribune. She is also the author of “Stylenoir,” a groundbreaking book on black style.

Check out our Q&A:

BGG:What were some of the most surprising fashion trends that you saw during NYC Fashion Week Fall 08?
Constance: I was really surprised that belts and fur are still so strong. The fur trend is more than four years old and belts have been around now for a year but they’re both still hot.

BGG:What would you say is eBay’s greatest advantage in the fashion marketplace right now?
Constance: Ebay’s greatest advantage is the ability for buyers to find great bargains – fabulous fashion items at a great price. With people being cautious about spending and the real estate market at a low, eBay’s a great place to save money and still get what you want.


One of the vintage gowns on display at the eBay Style Suite.

BGG:What has been the most searched eBay fashion item for the upcoming spring season so far?
Constance: Out of the fall 2008 trends seen on the runways last week, Booties are one of the most searched for trends on eBay.

BGG: I know that you’ve spoken out against the scarcity of black models on the runway before, how do you as a fashion expert plan to help bring more awareness to this problem?
Constance: Continuing to speak out about it in public, talking to designers, and booking models of all races are actions I will continue to take to help alleviate the problem, hopefully.

BGG: Being a fashion mogul, I’m sure you’ve come across many fantastic and one-of-a-kind pieces, but what is your most coveted fashion piece? Why?
Constance: My most coveted item is almost anything fabulous from Commes des Garcons. Something artistic and ingenious, but wearable.

BGG: What classic piece should every woman have in her closet?
Constance: Must have wardrobe items include: a white shirt, a few layering camisoles or T-shirts, a pinstripe pants suit, a pair of jeans, a black dress that goes from day into evening, a black skirt, diamond studs, a good watch or cellphone!, and a good hairstyle.

BGG: If you could choose your favorite fashion icon past or present, who would it be? Why?
Constance: My favorite fashion icon is Diana Ross. She’s so over the top and glamorous and always cares about how she looks. She’s worked with what she has. She’s not the most beautiful woman in the world, but she has made herself into one of the most intriguing (not including her present hairstyle of course!).

BGG: What’s the most exciting new fashion-related feature available to eBay users?
Constance: I really love the countdown feature : it
counts down auctions in real time. This way you don’t have to keep refreshing your browser to see if you are winning an auction. It’s perfect for helping you win that coveted fashion item on eBay.


Vintage Halston gown on display at the eBay Style Suite.

BGG: What key piece of advice could you give a woman of color who wants to break into the world of fashion journalism/commentary?
Constance: Most of the advice is the same I’d give to anyone of any color EXCEPT to women of color I particularly say – network! Get out of your own comfortable world, if you have not already. Insert yourself into the conversation (in a respectful way), invite someone out for drinks who is not your color, ask someone for advice who is white, hang out in the Hamptons, and not just with Puffy. You need the broadest possible network of contacts, if you are going to reach your goals- and they are reachable.

Advice for everyone: Get educated (preferably get a degree). Read magazines, books, the Internet. Intern. Research the career paths of achievers in the industry want to be in. Don’t be discouraged.

For more inside fashion tips, visit Constance’s eBay blog called, “My Fashion Life” at https://blogs.ebay.com/constance.white

Category: Fashion, Interviews | 15 Comments

Meet Fashion Photographer: Piper Carter

January 28, 2008


Photo courtesy of Ward/VH-1

Being that I am a die-hard reality TV fan, I tuned in to watch VH-1’s photography-based reality show, The Shot a few months ago. I knew I was going to be hooked since it combined my love of photography with addictive reality TV. The show featured the super talented BG fashion photographer, Piper Carter, competing with 9 other up-and-coming lensmen for a chance at photographic excellence!

Her intense passion for her craft and abundant charisma made her an ideal person to interview for BGG. I was lucky enough to speak with her recently. Check out the Q&A!

BGG: Where are you from?
Piper: I’m from Detroit. Actually the exact street of the original Motown!

BGG:Do you currently live in NYC?
Piper: Yes, I currently live in New York City.

BGG: How long have you been a photographer?
Piper: I have been a photographer since 1992!

BGG: What made you decide to become a professional photographer?
Piper: I became a professional photographer because I wanted to make beautiful images of women.

BGG: What kinds of images do you enjoy photographing?
Piper: I am a fashion photographer, so I enjoy working with interesting lighting, locations & situations. I enjoy coming up with cool ideas based on film imagery and sort of recreating the atmosphere or psychological state.

BGG: Describe your photography style.
Piper: My style is a combination of raw, earthy, cinematic, strong, beautiful, simple and fresh.

BGG: What inspires you as a photographer?
Piper: As a photographer, I am inspired by beautiful cinematography in films. Great lighting I see on the street and in the paintings of the masters from the northern renaissance.

BGG: What made you audition for the VH-1 reality TV show, The Shot?
Piper: Actually, I got a call from VH-1’s producers in NYC asking me to come in and audition.

BGG: Do you have any regrets about appearing on the show?
Piper: I am happy I did the show. It was a great learning experience and I received lots of exposure and recognition for my work.

BGG: In three words describe your personality.
Piper: My personality is so vast; I am not sure if I can capture myself in three words or I may give the wrong impression if you catch me on a different day. But here goes: friendly, humorous and inspiring (lots of people tell me I inspire them).

BGG: What was your most enjoyable shoot on the show?
Piper: My most enjoyable shoot was the underwater of course because I won! Plus my image was amazing! I loved the dress, the girl, the lighting. Everything was just gorgeous! I was hoping to capture an image that was breathtaking and I did. I saw my shot in my head as we discussed the plan of action; and I executed it precisely as I saw it. The model took direction extremely well. It was very successful and it felt good shooting it.

BGG: The least enjoyable?
Piper: My least enjoyable shoot on the show was the kids because children are not my aesthetic.

BGG: Why?
Piper: I like to shoot women. I will shoot what the client wants of course, but my aesthetic is women. I like to create images based on the silhouette and structure of a woman’s body, life, etc…I am always thinking about romance when I shoot. For my taste children do not offer what I am hoping to achieve with my images: confident, strong and sexy women living an awesome life filled with romance and beauty. It was difficult for me to “see” children in my images.

BGG: Name a few publications where your work has been featured?
Piper: I’ve had work published in British Elle, Trace, SPIN, Essence and my videos on French Vogue’s website.

BGG: If you could choose one celebrity BG (brown girl/woman) to photograph, who would she be if you haven’t already photographed her?
Piper: Jurnee Smollett, she is amazing! I’ve loved her as an actress since Eve’s Bayou and I had been looking for her in film roles ever since. I love her talent and think she’s absolutely beautiful! She’s very passionate and comes across well on film. I have so many ideas for her. I would love to do collaborations with her and do my fashion film series. I have so many ideas for her. I’ve started doing fashion films: they’re anywhere from 15 seconds to 2 minutes and are purely visual candy). I could shoot her again and again in a studio with the fan blowing her hair and just one light or on location walking on 125th Street in Harlem wearing legwarmers and a leather jacket. I’m just thinking off the top of my head. She’s incredible!

BGG: Is there a tip that you can give BGG readers to help them take their best shot while being photographed?
Piper: Be confident! Don’t think too much. Practice in front of the mirror and take lots of self-portraits so you can learn your best angles.

BGG: What advice can you tell other aspiring and younger BGs who want to make it in the male-dominated photography world?
Piper: I can say be true to your image. Learn as much as you can, drink lots of water & get rest because it’s a hectic field. Have faith and shoot everyday! Meet as many people as you can. Daydream a lot! Reach out to companies and let them know you exist. Read trade publications like PDN and get yourself listed in LeBook. Test as often as possible. Always tell yourself yes and practice yoga. Not only does the heavy breathing alleviate stress, but constant stretching helps you get into awkward positions so you can get the best shot!

All photos were taken by Piper. For more information check out her website: www.pipercarter.com

Category: Interviews | 10 Comments

Meet Celebrity Fashion Stylist Yaniece Piper Thomas

January 14, 2008


A few weeks ago, I attended a photo shoot with America’s favorite former top model and talk show host, Tyra Banks (for my regular 9 to 5 job). She was extremely down-to earth and friendly just like you’d expect her to be. Not only was she approachable and genuine, her glam squad was too; especially her wardrobe stylist, Yaniece Piper Thomas.

Immediately, I thought that Yaniece would be a perfect person to interview for BGG! Dressed in a funky pink snood cap, cute jacket and denim jeans, the former model-turned celebrity fashion stylist politely and excitedly accepted my interview offer.

An L.A native, who studied merchandising at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and once toured the world as a model, Yaniece now works in New York City as Tyra’s personal fashion stylist on her popular TV talk show, America’s Next Top Model , as well as for special events and appearances.

Check out my Q&A with the style guru:

BGG: How long have you been a fashion stylist?
Yaniece: I have been styling for about 5 years. I modeled for about 10 years and then started a clothing line called Liya Cynamone with a business partner. The line was sold to about 100 boutiques across the country and a couple of specialty stores which included Saks and Henri Bendels.

BGG:I know that you were a model before you became a fashion stylist, do you think that your experience as a model helps you in your career as a stylist?
Yaniece: I believe my experience as a modeling and designer has helped me tremendously with styling. Modeling allowed me to see the world, meet all types of people and experience different cultures. Not knowing at the time, I was making future business contacts. Designing helped me learn the structure of garments, learn about textiles and also taught me business skills.

BGG: Describe your personal style.
Yaniece: My personal style is vintage chic…I’m a little funky… I love flowy tops and a cute dresses. I’m 5′ 10″ but you rarely catch me without high heels. I guess it’s the LA in me.

BGG: Briefly tell me about a typical day as a celebrity/wardrobe stylist.
Yaniece: There isn’t a typical day in celebrity styling. But a normal show day is pretty mellow. Morning phone calls to showrooms and designers. Setting up looks for the day and dressing my client for the show. I usually stay on set making sure my client looks perfect.

But some days are crazy…we can start as early as 3 or 4 am to go to publicity shoots then straight to the talk show, then to a special event. My day could end around 12 am. You have to keep in mind my one booking never starts on the day of the event. Typically one shoot takes two maybe even three days to prep then the day of the shoot and a wrap day. When I say wrap day I mean returning clothing and taking care of the budget.

BGG: I know the fashion industry is a tough business to break into, what was your big break?
Yaniece: My big break was working as an assistant with a stylist who happened to work for Tyra Banks and pretty much worked hard and ended up with her job. It’s all about hard work and relationships.

BGG: As Tyra Banks’ stylist, is there anything that she absolutely won’t wear?
Yaniece: Tyra likes her clothing to accentuate her curves..she never wears shiny clothing.

BGG: What other celebrities have you worked with?
Yaniece: I’ve worked with a few other celebrities – Iman, Carly Wilson, Blu Cantrell, Eric Bennett and a couple of others.

BGG: Working with celebrities can be grueling because of their demanding schedules, what do you do for fun and relaxation?
Yaniece: When I’m not working I love to spend time with my daughter and find out what’s going on in her world. She’s a teenager so I get on her nerves. But when she’s tired of me, I love to veg out, go to spas, hang out and have a few cocktails…you know!!!

BGG: I know that you’re from Los Angeles, how is the fashion here in New York City different from the City of Angels, if at all?
Yaniece: In my eyes, the only difference between LA and NY is – Cali is more laid back…we love flip flops 24/7…even when it rains!

BGG: Who are some of your favorite designers? Why?
Yaniece: I really don’t have a favorite designer. Unfortunately, I’m not a loyal customer. If I like It I buy or pull it.

BGG: If you could pick 3 fashion must-haves that every BG should own, what would they be?
Yaniece: Three fashion must-haves that every BG should own are a pair of big gold earrings, a cute black dress and sexy lingerie.

Gold hoops available at Macy’s www.macys.com for $360 (I bought this same pair 2 years ago for less than half of that price so check them out when they go on sale)
Cute black Nicole Miller dress available at Nordstrom for $385. Again, you can find a cute black dress almost anywhere and at various prices.

Sexy embroidered babydoll nightie from Victoria’s Secret www.victoriassecret.com for $26.99

BGG: What’s a great fashion tip that you can share with BGG readers?
Yaniece: My fashion tip is always dress to impress. Even If you’re going to the grocery store put on a cute sweat suit. You never know who you’ll see. First impressions are lasting impressions.

BGG: What advice would you give to other BGs who’d like to break into the business of celebrity/fashion styling?
Yaniece: The only advice I can give to someone who wants to be in this industry is to work hard and make contacts. And if you’re already doing that keep it up your time will come.

Click here to see Yaniece on The Tyra Banks Show!

Category: Fashion, Interviews | 20 Comments