My Fashion Styling course was what changed it all. It was my second course of the certificate program. The first course seemed to be a breeze. I mean…how hard could a Fashion Styling class really be?  The class began with about 40 people. My fabulous instructor, Iris – explained details of the final project on the first day. The next week, only about 20 people showed up to class.

I was petrified at what was expected out of this class. I had to find a legitimate model under a recognized modeling agency, along with a professional photographer, a makeup artist, a hair stylist, studio time…and of course since I was the stylist, a theme and outfits to match. Things that I have never done before and had no idea how to do. I wanted to pee my pants at the whole idea. It was, as me and my friends would say, intanse.

But secretly, I love challenges and I went hard on this one. Luckily, all of my closest friends are amazingly talented, so I utilized them and I couldn’t have asked for a more ridiculously sick ass team.

Themes are difficult. In the beginning I thought the more complicated the theme was, the more “fashion forward” it would be. I racked my brain for weeks coming up with something, and thought of the most ridiculous ideas that were impossible because there was no budget for this. Poor Vicky had to listen to me for days and read my emails, brainstorming on any idea that came to mind.

Finally, after going through some portfolios of other stylists for some inspiration, I came across some very gothic images that took place in a cemetery that made me look twice. To sum it up, I came up with Black Widow, the story of a strong female “femme fatale” man eater who lures men into her realm of darkness. She uses her own beauty and sweet temptations to capture her prey……(insert dracula laughter here). The wardrobe? Simple. Black & white in a variety of fabrics and textures.

So without further ado, here are my favourite shots.

Wardrobe Stylist & Art Direction: J Marie
Model: Laetitia Gacond (previously with Elmer Olson Model Management)
Photographers: Vicky & Cristina
Makeup Artist & Photo Editing: Miel
Hair Stylist: Kyeisha Ball for Marca College
Production Assistant: Chelle
Chef: Duane Baby aka Baby D
Location: Boy Girl Photography Studio

“Every fashion spread, should tell a story” – Iris Simpson