This week’s graduate interview is from one of our out-of-town students. We first met Brandy in NYC for Class 1. She then traveled all the way to LA to attend classes 2 and 3. Now that’s dedication! Oh and did we mention that she lives in Texas?! Gotta love a girl who does whatever it takes to make in the styling industry.
Brandy has been busy since graduating from School Of Style. In fact, she has been styling up a storm. Well don’t let us try to tell you about, let Brandy do it in her fun Q&A with us …

School Of Style: Tell us a little bit about yourself?
Brandy Joy Smith: 26 years old nor Cali native currently living in Austin, TX. My favorite color is purple and I have a dog-named Bambi Luv. I don’t have a ton of friends but the ones I do have are some of the most talented, intelligent, and positive people I know… My family rocks and I’m so thankful they believe in me. Words I live by “love the life you live.”
SOS: Did you have experience in the fashion industry before attending School Of Style?
BJS: I’ve been in the fashion industry for the past four years in sales, marketing, and PR (The wholesale side) and made the jump to styling full time in 2009. Prior I did some small time modeling and started working as an assistant stylist in 2006.
SOS: When did you know you wanted to become a wardrobe stylist?
BJS: I think when I started playing with Barbies. Lol I used to dress them but never really play with them. That was the first sign.
SOS: When did you graduate from School Of Style?
BJS: Just last month
SOS: Which classes did you take?
BJS: All of them! I can’t pass up a discount. Ha!
SOS: What was the most valuable thing you learned at School Of Style?
BJS: KIT rental fee. Hello! I was missing out and trust me people won’t tell you about it if you don’t ask. I think that bit of knowledge just paid for all my classes.
SOS: What was the most shocking thing you learned?
BJS: That no matter what city you work in you rarely get much notice before shoots. I was hoping that was just a Texas thing.
SOS: Have you been able to find work since graduating from School Of Style?
BJS: Absolutely. I try and stay busy. Fashion shows, editorials, commercial and films. If I don’t have a job on the books for the day I’m looking for one. And I’m always in touch with my agent. Shout out to Lindsay at The Campbell Agency.
SOS: Describe your ”style” as a stylist:
BJS: It really runs the gamete but if I had to definite it I would say high fashion catalog. I know that sounds like a contradiction but think Neimans “the book”.
SOS: Is that different than your personal style? If so, describe your personal style:
BJS: I would say my personal style has a bit of street wear influence but I like to get girly too. I’m still really feeling the 80’s vibe. I guess that’s because I love gaudy stuff.
SOS: Who is your dream client?
BJS: My dream client is also my nightmare client all rolled into one I would love to style Mariah Carey. I just want to see her in something that doesn’t sparkle.
SOS: Who are your favorite designers?
BJS: Literally this changes from season so I’ll give you some consistent favs and tell you why…
Philip Lim, because he knows how to show off a woman’s figure without showing too much skin.
Alexander McQueen, because he took his fantasy’s and made them wearable art. Isabel Marant, because she creates great shapes in her clothing and has fun with prints and colors.
Peter Soronen, for his amazing construction and fit. Nak Armstrong for his innovation and willingness to take chances against current trends. Dries Van Noten, for his elegant and beautiful designs and amazing uses of texture.
SOS: Favorite trends?
BJS: Capes, Lace up boots, and did I mention the 80’s.
SOS: Trends you wish would die?
BJS: Rhinestones, and bedazzled anything.
SOS: What are your favorite places to shop?
BJS: By George, Buy Definition, Complete Clothing, Buffalo Exchange, Feathers, and sales racks. I don’t pay full price ever!
SOS: Any tips you would like to share with other stylists who are just starting out?
BJS: Get to know everyone, stop and listen, and don’t take yourself too seriously. We’re not saving lives it’s just clothes.
Be sure to keep up with Brandy on her sites: www.brandyjoysmith.com and www.brandyjoysmith.tumblr.com