HauteGirl: Mieka Blackman-Reese, The Socialite Styling
When she’s not styling celebrities like Derrick Rose, Mieka Blackman-Reese, is building her company, The Socialite Styling. Turning her passion for fashion into a business, the Chicago native started the full-service styling agency to provide fashion solutions for celebrities and everyday fashionistas.
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The Girl
Name: Mieka Blackman-Reese, The Socialite Styling
The ‘Haute’ness
What initiated your passion for fashion?
Since the age of two, I had an infatuation with Marshall Fields. It was my favorite store; and I cried when they sold the franchise to Macy’s (laughs). It was never the same experience. My parents are very fashionable and I believe they introduced me to the world of fashion.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is a combination of classic and edgy pieces. I’m a strong believer in opposites attract, so I might wear a timeless dress with trendy shoes or bag.
Who are your fashion icons or inspirations?
Michelle Obama, Victoria Becham, Valentin Yudashkin, Christian Louboutin, and Dennis Basso.
What are your three fashion must-haves?
A killer jacket (Rick Owens), over-sized Purse, and lots of bracelets.
The Business
How would you describe The Socialite Styling?
The Socialite Styling is a source to people in need of fashion/styling help at any level. We do personal shopping for the individual that knows what they want but doesn’t have the time to get it; or for the person who can never seem to put an outfit together. Our main objective is to provide a sufficient answer to all your fashion needs, big or small.
From styling Derrick Rose to some of the most notable ‘who’s who’ in the Chicago social scene, it seems your business is doing well. What are some of the obstacles you’ve had to endure as a female entrepreneur in such a competitive business?
My biggest obstacle is getting my brand out there. Styling is like a secret society. If you’re in you’re in, if you’re not you’re not. Although I have achieved success in my hometown, it’s been hard to achieve the same success outside of Chicago. It’s a word of mouth business so a lot of networking is required and I’m a very private person.
What advice would you offer other women attempting to break into the fashion industry?
Network, Network, Network! Go to every event that you can, don’t turn away any styling job in the beginning because you will always need a fresh portfolio. Also, with fashion changing so often you want to stay ahead of the trends.
Connect With The Socialite Styling:
www.twitter.com/socialitestyle
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June 22nd, 2011 at 9:22 am
like the idea hautegirl!
June 22nd, 2011 at 9:49 am
Great article! I love to see Young Black Women who are doing their own thing.
June 22nd, 2011 at 9:52 am
I Like.Great job Erica.
June 22nd, 2011 at 10:47 am
Cute girl.I like the article.
June 22nd, 2011 at 11:37 am
And oooohh, she styled my boo, Rose! Pretty girl.
June 22nd, 2011 at 1:49 pm
Loved this article. Very inspirational. I’m too an aspiring sylist in GA.
June 22nd, 2011 at 2:57 pm
so happy the site is back!! loving hearing about positive black women on their hustle.
June 22nd, 2011 at 3:11 pm
This isnt’ replacing the TOP SPOT is it? I like em both.
June 22nd, 2011 at 3:59 pm
I do too! Hopefully it isn’t. Anywho, good article! so happy the site is back.
June 22nd, 2011 at 4:46 pm
Run The World Girls!
June 28th, 2011 at 6:41 pm
Love the article. very inspiring.