What made you decide to become a Stylist?
I knew my goals in life would revolve around the fashion industry from very early on. I have been educated extensively in fashion merchandising, have worked on fashion shows, and was fortunate to be a part of Gap, Inc. for 7 years.
In 2001, I decided to start my own business, shortly after the birth of my beautiful first-born. Being a business owner, it gave me immense knowledge and insight to the fashion world. It was an early introduction to both the artistic and business-related complexities of the industry and forced me to develop necessary skills in such a high demand market.
As a stylist having worked as an independent consultant, I stress the importance of fit. The openness and intimacy of working on an individual level allows me to dedicate the deserved time and investment of my clients.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work.
I have had a love affair with “Old Hollywood” movies since as far as I can remember. I love the effortless style and glamorous looks of the era. My first taste of fashion was at 18 when I dressed models at I.Magnin for the in-house shows and met designers Donna Karan, Geoffrey Bean, Marc Jacobs, and other incredible talents. From that moment, I was hooked!
A native San Franciscan, I’ve worked with some of the best and emerging stylists all over. The eclectic vibe of San Francisco allowed me the flexibility to do work that varied from fashion shows, personal shopping, interfacing with international clothing manufacturers, retail corporate merchandising, photo shoots, print and more.
Community and environmental issues are very important to me. We strive to inform our clients to purchase intelligently with fair trade products, organic cotton, bamboo, hemp and recycled materials.
My ultimate goal is to help define each client’s own unique style in such a way that exudes their personality, lifestyle and spirit. We help clients feel less intimidated by educating them about fashion. The result is that our clients learn to maximize their wardrobes by adding accessories so they will always look and feel their best.
Which projects are you most proud of?
I have given my best and foremost effort to every project I’ve worked on, and for that I am very proud of them all. If I had to pick one, I am especially proud of the project I did for Levi’s Corp.
I was the Stylist for 30 plus looks at Levi’s: The Original & Definitive: Then, Now and Again Fashion Show. I assisted in casting models and managed dressers, working side-by-side with the hair and makeup teams to define looks/visions.
“Working with Shea was a huge pleasure! Her meticulous eye for detail and keen sense of style [was] what was needed to add the finishing touches to designs customized at Levi’s. She is the best! I look forward to working with her again on future projects.” – Charles Ford, Designer Levi’s Customization
How would you describe your own style?
“City Chic” I love the idea of mixing highs and lows, accented by something vintage. Layering and mixing various colors are also big. I love my fitted blazers over a blouse, paired with skinny denim and boots. I believe our body is a great canvas that’s malleable to represent our individuality.
Who was your mentor?
Two people have been continuous mentors in my life.
My teacher Diane Green pushed me to explore trend, color, design and styling. To this day, I still look to her and she inspires me. My mother has greatly influenced my path; with her guidance, support and confidence in me endlessly. She continues to push me outside my limits.
Your idea of great style?
I would definitely credit the great fashion sense of my family tree. My Great-Grandmother was a seamstress and would create and replicate all the high-fashion looks she admired, as well as design my grandmother’s clothes. My great Aunt Gigi was drenched in glamour and the theatre hence was a big influence on my obsession with “Old Hollywood”.
Great style is effortless.
What puts you in a creative mood?
The bay, San Francisco!
I have been inspired from my travels, but nothing compares to San Francisco as the haven for arts, music, cuisine, literature and the people.
I am very visual, and enjoy observing people greatly.
Circle & Square Interview
