Meet NYC-based Fashion Stylist Nyasia Rudolph
The bond between a public figure and their stylist is very very important. Whether the client is trying to gain exposure or gain credibility in the fashion industry, it is essential that the stylist has a creative eye and can understand the message they are trying to convey. As a stylist, job duties often call for long nights of multiple looks, several fittings, and constant communication to create the perfect look.
For NY-based fashion stylist Nyasia Rudolph, being creative came second nature to her. The Howard alumni originally went to school to study graphic design, but her passion for fashion fueled her to switch career paths and pursue personal styling full time.
Nyasia is the 25 year old boss bae behind some of our fav social media influencer's most stylish looks such as Aaliyah Jay, Dearra from DK4L and the Clermont Twins. Her hustle and drive has led her to gain placement in Nylon and Galore Magazine all in one year. Although she has accomplished a lot thus far, the Georgia native still has some major task she wants to check off her to-do list.
In the Q&A below, Nyasia dishes on when she fell in love with fashion, how her collab with Nylon Magazine came about and much more! Check out the full interview below:
Photo Credit: @NyasiaSylvester
When did you fall in love with fashion and gain your own sense of style?
I’ve always had a love for fashion. I used to buy tons of teen magazines in high school like Cosmo girl, Teen Vogue and NYLON and cut out different editorials to tape on to my closet door for “outfit inspo”.
Who are your fashion influences?
Kelis, Solange and Gwen Stefani. I had a phase with each of them trying to emulate their style in middle and high school.
How would you define your approach to styling a client? is it a collaborative effort?
I try to get as much info out of them as I possibly can, then I research their IG to see what I can get from their personal style. It’s definitely a collaborative effort because I want to make sure I’m getting them exactly what they want.
What is your favorite fashion moment to date?
When I got to style for NYLON Germany. I grew up reading NYLON and I remember I wanted to intern for them so badly in college and I kept getting rejected. So when I finally got to work with them and see my name in print it was one of the best feelings.
NYLON Germany editorial "Hotline Bling" styling and creative direction by Nyasia for NYLON's "It's Hot" Issue published June 8, 2018.
Photographer: Savanna Ruedy Stylist: Nyasia Rudolph MUA: Dina Drevenak Hair : Jehnna Mahoney Set Design: Chelsea Finkel Model: Sira Kante
How has winning the #VFilesRunway contest impacted your career thus far? What was your biggest lesson from that experience?
I wouldn’t say much has changed, just another notch under my belt. The biggest lesson I took from it is I got to learn the ins and outs of how to style a fashion show and what leads up to it.
In the past, you’ve done editorial styling and event styling, which one do you would prefer the most and why?
I like both. Editorial styling is more creative and I get to really go all out but event styling pays better. (Side note for all of my aspiring Stylist—editorial styling does not pay it’s only for publicity and creativity for your portfolio.)
LEFT TO RIGHT: AaliyahJay attends the 2018 Beautycon styled by Ny
New Millennium shoot via LadyGunn styled by Ny
What are some current trends that you’re loving right now?
I’m loving over sized faux fur coats. They look great with anything and come in handy when I have to step outside in this NY winter.
If you could only wear one designer for rest of your life, who would it be?
Acne Studios!
How do you think social media plays a role on your career and which social media platform do you like most to connect with potential clients?
Social Media plays a MAJOR role in my career. I research brands, future clients and get to showcase a lot of my work on IG. Instagram is really the only platform I use to connect with my clients because it’s like a digital business card.
Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?
Hopefully styling major magazine covers and red carpet events. I want to be HUGE!
What is the biggest misconception people not working in your field have about your job?
They think styling is all about glamour. Most people get styling and fashion designer mixed up or have this misconception that I walk on set wearing heels ready to style whoever. This career takes research, patience, and an eye for trends. When you are first starting out it gets really discouraging especially in the age of social media when it’s so easy to compare your success to others.
What is the best piece of advice that you would give to an aspiring stylist?
INTERN! I would say intern and assist as many different people as you possibly can. Also, start test shooting now even if it’s just you and your friend with a camera. The earlier you start the more you’ll learn and develop your personal style.
What are 3 items everyone should have in their closet?
Solid color t-shirts, basic dark wash jeans and cute yet comfy tennis shoes. With those basic pieces you can easily build your wardrobe around them.
Who would you want to work with that you haven’t collaborated with yet?
There are plenty of people but my dream job would be to style Solange for a red carpet event.
To view more of Nyasia’s work, visit her site at www.nyasiarudolph.com and connect with her on social media @StyledBy_Ny