Style Equation Magazine - THE STYLE OF MUSIC ISSUE | Page 89

At the time, Olari had no clue at the time what these things where. She had to learn
the celebrity styling business on her own. “I wasn’t privileged enough to intern or assist
anyone. It was like taking an independent study course in the fashion styling business,
and my instructor was life,” she stated on her blog, www.oloriswank.com.
Olori’s story is one example of getting into the fashion styling world by working with a
recording artist. If styling and music are your passions, contact the A&R department of
a record label, or simply offer your styling expertise to an upcoming artist who may not
have a stylist. Have a portfolio before contacting anyone. Whether you want to go in as
a head stylist or be an assistant, be sure you do your research on the fashion and music
industry, to be sure this career path is really something you can handle.
Olori Swank’s story is an inspiration for anyone starting in the fashion industry, who may
be unsure of themselves .Being flung into the ever changing world of styling permitted
swank to not only grow but also rise and be respected as a professional stylist in the
music industry. Today Olari is the proud owner of SWANK Consulting. Her client list
includes Keyshia Cole, Tyrese, Teyana Taylor, Hosea Chanchez, and Dawn Richard of
Diddy Dirty Money, to name a few and Olori continues to rise and leave her mark on
the fashion industry.
By Sheila Mathews