Stylist Spotlight | Saniyyah Bilal

WHO is Saniyyah Bilal? 

An entrepreneur, a young African American woman trying to beat all odds to reach her utmost success, a Hijabi (fashionable Muslim woman), a lover of the arts, an optimist, a dreamer, a fashion stylist

What is your biggest inspiration/ where do you get your inspiration from? 

My biggest inspiration is traveling whether it is across state lines or abroad which is why I must do more of it! I also get inspired from characters such as Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl, Warren Beatty & Faye Dunaway from Bonnie & Clyde or Rebecca Bloomwood from Confessions of a Shopaholic. I am also inspired by culture, colors, music, fabrications and industry professionals such as Rihanna, Catherine Biba & Mariel Haenn.

Who is your favorite designer(s) and why? 

Oh wow there is so many I will attempt to minimize my answer, haha. So my favorite designers are Diane Von Fursternberg because she effortlessly understands how to flatter the women’s contour properly. Ohhh I also love Balmain, Olivier Rousteing does an impeccable job at paying attention to detail in each collection as well as offers a great array of fabrications and texture which is always pleasing to the eye. Balenciaga has the most gorgeous bags but their creative director, Nicolas Ghesquiere translates astonishing structures in their pieces it is so inspiring, their shoes are always conversation pieces. Speaking of shoes, Ruthie Davis, the originator of the spiked shoe in my opinion is the American shoe you must own in your collection. She always creates original statement pieces, she has the pump perfected.

What do you think is your strengths and weaknesses in the art of fashion? 

I am very versatile in what I style and who.  With every experience you gain new skills, therefore you must be open minded to gain a well rounded portfolio and client base. I also try to be very personable in my work to ensure all finished projects reflect my client; therefore I work off a huge referral basis where I always recommended projects to my fellow industry professionals. I’ am really indecisive, I always want to see how it looks or drapes before I make my choice. I have to be overly organized to ensure I know what I want and have a game plan to guide any sudden decisions that usually arise, it always works out for the best.

How are your clothes different from the other stylist? 

I have an eye for high fashion and unique pieces. When pulling from my network of designers I always tell them I need statement pieces that will stand out. I like to add my culture of Islamic fashion into my work as well which embodies some of my inspirations; culture, character, color, drape & fabrications.

What is your favorite season for fashion? 

I love fall fashion because it is my birthday so I get a free pass to shop relentlessly and because I like layering up and it is no better time to bundle up when leaves fall. I also like fall fashion because it is New York Fashion Week!

What is the best perk in being a stylist? 

It is very rewarding seeing your completed vision come to life with a happy client and I enjoy getting free merchandise when I build rapports with designers and boutiques.

What trends do you see being big for 2013? 

Lace, sheer fabrics, the beanie, clear frame glasses, leather, ankle straps heels, neon colors, fringes, abstract prints, neutral colors, metallic, exaggerated necklines, mixing prints & textures.

What one piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to start a career in fashion?  
You have to create a niche to set yourself apart. Always ask yourself “why would they choose me over someone else?”- know the answer and you are bound to succeed!

To learn more about Saniyyah Visit her website at: Curio Styling Consultants.