“A girl should be two things… classy and fabulous.” — Coco Chanel
Founder of Mia Collins Design, Mia is a personal stylist and interior designer who has a passion for all things to do with fashion. We were especially intrigued with the way she consults clients over Skype—helping to inject wardrobes with new life, create new looks for specific occasions or simply “re-mix” existing pieces with new must haves to create a totally new image.
An example of one of Mia’s interior projects shot by Kiersten Ladzinski
Mia’s virtual styling helps people on any budget and, as you can imagine, location is no issue either:
“The best thing about Skype is being able to connect with clients who, in some instances, would be unable to use my services without it. Clients feel like they have their own stylist in their back pocket.”
In fact, with Skype available on every platform, including mobile phone, it literally is like carrying a fashion expert around with you.
Styling for a fashion shoot. Photography: Anne Calamuci
Mia says that her “special talents are my eye for detail and love for the industry (all things lovely).” So spreading and imparting advice on her passion becomes even easier with Skype.
“Skype certainly helps me work with clients that can’t travel because of schedules. That goes for me as well. Sometimes it gets busy and you can’t physically be at the location, but Skype gives you that comfort in knowing that you can still assist your clients.”
Historically, the job title and description of “Fashion Stylist” started in the field of fashion publication. Here, the first “stylists” worked as editors, choosing and curating clothing and trends for fashion spreads. Stylists, as we know them today, are a relatively new concept—it was quite common for models in the 1960s to apply their own makeup, style their own hair and even bring their own accessories for shoots and shows.
The 1980s saw the first freelance stylists working at magazines, showcasing their flair and style, without being committed to a certain magazine’s aesthetic or values.
These days it has turned into an art form, where the stylist’s skills and eye for upcoming trends are coveted by people such as movie stars, the wealthy and even fashion designers themselves. Often, the stylist’s reputation is as well known as their clients—sometimes even taking on a form of celebrity status in their own right.
Left: Mia Collins. Right: styling model Ona Pirrone
Mia explains how she got involved in styling:
“I got into the industry over 15 years ago. Having a mother in the beauty industry and a background in dance was my introduction. Living in New York City, I was able to have access and opportunities to decide what direction I wanted to pursue—I chose fashion. After relocating back home to DC, I sought out an agent and began testing.”
In the virtual consulting side of her business, Mia communicates with clients about the latest trends in clothing or this season’s hottest looks for the home:
“I even accompany clients on virtual shopping trips. I may block out a window of time when I know a client is out shopping so that I can be available to help with making a decision.”
Mia’s clients range from female executives, entrepreneurs and celebrities to image conscious moms who all want to look good as well as live in a stunning looking home. These women are the best in their industries and understand the importance of representing their brand and image.
Another interior by Mia Collins. Shot by Kiersten Ladzinski
So, what’s next for Mia’s styling and interior business?
“The next plans for Mia Collins Design is to create a premiere life styling agency incorporating my love for interiors. I recently became certified in home staging and redesign. I want to create a lifestyle for my client, so they won’t have to think about those things—just be the best that they are.”
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We’re always on the lookout for fascinating Skype stories like Mia’s. To share yours, just tag us #Skype on social media and we might feature you.
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