Meet Amber Ashli | Fashion Stylist

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

Hi Amber, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
You were born an original. Don’t die a copy. This was my high school senior quote and I firmly stand by it in everything I do. We are unique individuals that have something to give this world. It is important to nourish that always.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an independent fashion stylist originally from NY that has over a decade of experience working with talent from aspiring models to global brands like L’Oreal. I have been through the grind before the social media platforms boosted visuals, you had to be in the room and still do by the way. I have a very versatile style. One day I can dress like a tomboy and the next, put on some heels in a more girly aesthetic. I love this about myself because my wardrobe never gets boring. Challenging myself with clothing is what I constantly do and it comes so naturally, praise be to the most High. So getting into this, at the time there was no handbook however there was Google. I started working with a brand development company in NY and over years and years, I did a lot of interning working for free. I have some certificates under my belt because you can never stop learning. A lot of people don’t understand this aspect! I was hungry and at one point my goal was to be a celebrity fashion stylist. Let’s just say I got a taste of that and decided, I’ll work for myself. So I eventually I got to the point where I felt comfortable gaining my own clients. The flexibility and knowing your worth is invaluable. I mean I got L’Oreal on my own, no agent! This industry is NOT easy. It is highly competitive and honestly if you go the agency route, you will have more consistent work. Also, being in a big city like NYC or LA is truly important. It will be more difficult to have a plethora of clients in a smaller city but not impossible, this is where becoming a personal stylist can work. There are so many lessons that you learn, just always stay confident and know who you are. Fashion is very much a visual game and people can be snobby but you are you and that’s your power! The world should know, I got to where I am without any handouts just hard work, persistency and dedication. Your input is your output.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I live in CT and to be honest, I am not the biggest fan however there are some nice places. So because I am a foodie, I would first want to know what cuisine they’re going for but if they’re indecisive we can go to Anchor Spa in New Haven. It is island cuisine and it is so good! I am not the biggest drinker so for bars, I won’t know the spots however if they wanted to try a freezing effect for ice cream we can skip over to MilkCraft which is literally around the corner from Anchor Spa. Depending on the season, There’s the Shubert Theater if they’re down for a play. Toad’s Place or College Street Music Hall usually has local and sometimes national acts perform too. I know Bryson Tiller was just in town.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout Kim Poole. She is the owner of More Amour Boutique located in New Haven, CT. We met earlier this year via a mutual friend and I am so happy we did. She is an incredibly dedicated person that has such a positive spirit and willingness to help others. As a female black business owner, she has been someone who I admire with her hardwork and commitment to her craft. I certainly support her business efforts and wish her nothing but continued success.

Website: https://www.amberashli.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-ashli-b589b156/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/istmstyles-fashion-styling-studio-hamden-2

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AmberAshli?app=desktop