Brittany Diego is an established celebrity fashion stylist with clients, like Draya Michele and Trevor Jackson, along with companies, like BET and MTV under her belt; she started receiving many messages from aspiring stylists who needed guidance. This inspired her to start her company, Fashion Mentor, where she teaches everything she wished she knew before getting into the fashion industry. Read more about Brittany Diego.
Brittany Diego
How did you get started in your industry?
I have always dreamed of being in the fashion industry since I was ten years old. Since that young age, I was big on setting goals and setting my sights on being a fashion designer. I found a high school with a fashion program where I learned the basics, including sewing, designing, and visual merchandising. So, of course, I decided to major in fashion design in college. I did internships every summer break during college. Once I saw what designers did in the real-world professional setting, I realized I wouldn’t get to be as creative as I wanted to be. Still, luckily I discovered styling at that same internship, and I decided then and there that’s what I wanted to do with my life.
Growing up, did you imagine being an entrepreneur?
Yes, I’m a big sister so I was always independent and good at telling people what to do (lol).
In the beginning stages of developing your brand/business, what was your biggest struggle and how did you overcome it?
My biggest struggle was getting help and support when I started my business. Looking back, some of that was on me because I didn’t know how to ask for help. I always prided myself on learning how to do everything and before you knew it, I burnt myself out. I quickly realized, if I wanted Fashion Mentor to grow, I would need help from others who supported my vision, and it was the best decision I ever made. Now I focus on the bigger picture and being the face of my business while my team members handle admin and backend tasks I had previously spent way too much time on. It didn’t come naturally to me because I’m a very type-A but learning how to delegate was a game-changer.
Do you feel like you are pursuing purpose? If so, how did you know this was your purpose?
Absolutely! I know this is my purpose because my why keeps me going when times get tough. Plus, hearing from multiple people the courses or information I’ve shared across my platforms have literally changed their lives confirms I am walking the path I was meant for. Finally, there is nothing that brings me as much pride as positively impacting people’s lives.
Please tell us about, Fashion Mentor?
From styling education to transparency in getting better connected in the industry, Fashion Mentor serves the newbie to experienced fashion stylists ready to up-level their skills and knowledge. We help stylists dig deep to understand better what it truly takes to land their dream clients and gigs. From online education to 1:1 coaching, you’ll find all the support you need at Fashion Mentor.
What is the best part of Fashion Mentor? What keeps you motivated to keep going?
The best part of Fashion Mentor is guiding up-and-coming stylists to a fulfilling career they love and having the opportunity to teach stylists all of the things I wish I knew when I first started, so they don’t make the same mistakes I did. Seeing my students’ success motivates me to keep going. They have landed jobs styling for Oprah’s OWN Network, working in the wardrobe department for shows, like Wild N Out, and landed clients including Real Housewives of ATL’s Kenya Moore and Angela Simmons. I’m beyond proud to help my students go from not knowing where to source clothing to seeing their work on major networks and red carpets.
As an entrepreneur myself, I understand that sometimes personal life can get in the way of business. Have you encountered any personal hurdles that could have or did result in a business pivot?
I feel like every entrepreneur has bouts of imposter syndrome or self-doubt. I had my moments of wondering if what I was doing was helping anyone. Still, once I started receiving testimonials from stylists telling me how I helped them achieve their goals, get clients, and book amazing gigs, those thoughts went out the window. The confidence I gained from those testimonials allows me to show up as my best self and knowing for a fact I provide value to my audience.
During these times, we’ve all had to adjust. How was this adjustment been for you and your brand?
We’ve had to cease our in-person events completely and go 100% virtual. Before the pandemic, our events and workshops attracted aspiring fashionistas from all over the country. A handful of guests from outside the country flew in to receive our information. Even though nothing will ever replace the power of human connection and I look forward to resuming in-person events, the silver lining is Fashion Mentor’s resources and information have been able to help stylists all around the world, who wouldn’t be able to come to LA for one of our events.
How did starting your brand affect your mental health?
I’d say it positively impacted my mental health by boosting my self-confidence regarding being a leader and helping others. It also taught me the importance of balancing work and personal life. I used to be all about hustling 24/7 and going to bed at 4 AM, but there’s no reward for the most overworked person. So I learned to prioritize rest and self-care. My business flourishes when I’m my best me.
What’s the difference between the woman (you) before starting the brand and the woman (you) right now?
I’ve always been the same person, I’m just more confident and secure in myself these days. I love it here!
What are some tips for Business/Brand Owners to avoid feeling burnt out and taking care of their mental health?
Give yourself work hours as if you were at a job, take breaks as needed because your business will be affected when you’re not operating at your total capacity, and last but not least, don’t be so busy making a living that you forget to live life!
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Feel the fear and all the nerves of embarking on something new, and do it anyway! Your future self will thank you for taking that first step.
Lastly, what keeps you struttin?
My long-term goals are always in the back of my mind, and I know I have to stay the course to get to that level of success I know I’m capable of!
Connect with Brittany Diego
Interested in learning more about Brittany Diego? Follow her on social below and learn about her fashion styling company:
- Website: Fashion Mentor
- Business Instagram: @FashionMentor.co
- Personal Instagram: @brittanydiego