Meet Sasha Cottrell | Fashion Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sasha Cottrell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sasha, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The most important lesson I’ve learned through styling and working in the fashion industry is that everything doesn’t always go to plan. I’m a very organized and prepared person, so I come to every shoot with a very thought-out plan of what each look will turn out to be. But some of my absolute favorite outcomes have been spur-of-the-moment decisions, or results of problem-solving when something goes wrong. I believe that being prepared for, but not deterred by, unseen challenges, both in the work environment and real life, has been the most valuable lesson for me in both my work and personal life. I’ve learned to be inspired by and even excited for the unseen when it comes to being on set, and how my work will turn out.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I feel what sets me apart from other artists is my adaptability when it comes to aesthetics. I don’t like to be confined to one medium, style, or “vibe”. I feel that with each shoot I style, I bring in a fresh perspective apart from the shoot I did before. I enjoy being challenged by going outside my comfort zone when it comes to materials, genders, and personal taste when putting together an outfit.

I’m most proud of building my portfolio to what it is today, and having not only business connections in the industry, but people I consider close friends. First starting out is scary when you don’t know anyone, and don’t have proof to show your talents, especially when you have no idea where to start. That’s why I am so excited to have finished fashion school at SCAD, which has allowed me to grow my collection of work, supported me through my challenges, and allowed me to meet other amazing creatives to collaborate with. I would also like to attribute my growth to the other creatives iv met along the way, who have not only given me the chance to work with them, but also believed in my vision.

Finding my passion for styling wasn’t easy. I had no excitement to go to college after graduating high school, and saw it as a necessity rather than an opportunity. I went through SCAD as a fashion marketing major, but felt very depressed knowing that something was missing when it came to what I wanted to do for a career. Ever since I was a kid, I loved making and posting outfits I would put together for myself and friends, but I had never thought about it professionally. It actually just fell into my lap when a photographer friend said she liked my style and wanted me to dress a model for her shoot. I would say after that, I found it easy and fulfilling to continue styling just because it felt so natural.

Even though I found styling to come instinctively, I have always dealt with impostor syndrome, which I feel is common among artists. I will always feel underprepared and underqualified, but it’s gotten better knowing that throughout all industries, most people feel the same way. I’ve learned that we’re all humans who make mistakes, and it’s okay not to know everything. We’re all living life for the first time, so don’t spend so much time worrying about failure, but spend more time doing what you love.

What I’d love the world to take away from my story is that there’s always time. Whether that’s the time to figure out what your true passions are. Time to spend building your brand, or even time to take to yourself. There’s no rush or pressure when it comes to creativity.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I do have a lot of friends from out of town who come to visit, so iv kind of got a pattern down on what our touristy days look like. My must-dos are listed below.

-Posman Books in PCM: So many book options with alternative cover designs and lots of cute trinkets & toys. I’m a big reader so I love to take my other friends who like to read here, and grab an avacado toast at Spiller Park before hand.

-The Daily Cafe: Their whipped feta toast might be my favorite thing to eat ever

-Ormby’s: I’m not much of a club person, I much prefer a bar. So this is my favorite spot to take friends or a date for a beer, and to play some games. They also have THE best burgers!!!

-Botanical Gardens: After pollen season, a lunch and then a stroll in the garden is one of my favorite places to relax, and even snap a cute pic.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents have always been my biggest supporters. So I dedicate this shoutout to my Mom and Dad for not only allowing me to follow my passions, but also actively encouraging and aiding me in my journey. Since I was a kid, they inspired and fostered an environment of creativity. Without their help, I don’t think I ever would have realized this dream of becoming a stylist.

Website: https://sashacott23.myportfolio.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sashas_styling/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-cottrell-86a7b6199

Image Credits
Photographers: Sarah Eaves, Sabrina Costley, Rowin Hernandez, Steph Heath, & Hyuna Shin

MUA & Hair: Sabrina Costley, Annie Rainwater, & Haley Stefancis

Models: Mel Hansen, Kobe Warner, Jordan Kevin, Josiane Djondo, John Mark, Liberty Flynn, Carlos, Shannon Chen, Karé Chenell