To me, style has never been about labels or trends. It’s about how we carry ourselves, command a room, and embrace who we are—unapologetically.
No matter what I’ve conquered quietly on the inside, style has always been my “outside voice” that speaks volumes without saying a word.
I fondly remember being a young, brown-skinned girl making power moves in upscale corporate spaces. My hairstyle of choice? A precision-cut Afro so full and round that I commanded attention whenever I walked into a room. That feeling is unmatched.
Even as a single mother temporarily living in her car, I never lost sight of my personal style (despite losing my once-fly wardrobe and being left with a mix of flea market finds and a few donated stilettos). Every morning I got up, got dressed, and strutted like Naomi Campbell as I made power moves to reclaim the life I deserved.
Style On 10. Confidence On 20.
Style has the power to transform lives. I’ve strutted through life in designer clothes while producing high-fashion runway shows. I’ve also faced homelessness with just two pairs of shoes to my name. And yet, in every moment, I showed up in full stride, head high, and persevered with a smile.
Those experiences taught me that style isn’t about the price tag, it’s about confidence and the story I tell through my choices. It’s about finding beauty in the details— whether I’m rocking custom-made African accessories, embracing my silver strands, or donning my signature happy color: yellow.
Helping Others Unlock Their Style
My journey from being a teenage wife and mother to building a 30-year beauty career has shown me that true beauty and style are rooted in authenticity. And as a mentor for fellow entrepreneurs, I’ve learned that overcoming obstacles with style and grace isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.
When I launched PRIMP Agency in 2009, my goal was to provide beauty and style services that transformed how clients looked, but also how they felt. And let me tell you, there is nothing like witnessing someone’s confidence skyrocket with the right haircut or a bold lip color!
In 2022, I expanded that vision with SAGE Brand Solutions, helping beauty entrepreneurs serve their clients while looking and feeling good themselves.
Through my work, I want people to understand that your style—and your story—is your superpower. And for every woman out there, I want you to know: Your beauty is yours to define.
Style & Grace: A Lifestyle
Style is a superpower, and it goes beyond fashion choices and beauty routines. It also shows up in your home and day-to-day routine.
Every morning, I wake up, meditate, and walk through my home expressing gratitude for everything I get to do, be, and have. Naturally, my home decor mirrors my style—mud cloth textiles, faux fur accents, and abstract wall art. My space isn’t just decorated, it recharges my superpowers daily.
One of my favorite ways to express my style is through my deep love for authentic African art. My father gifted me my first ebony wood statue in the early ‘90s, and since then, I’ve been infusing my life and style with that same richness and depth. Today, my growing collection of 70+ pieces surrounds my family, reminding us that beauty is deeply rooted in our culture and history.
I bring this up just to remind you of the importance of using style to shape all that is around you.
Using Style To Help You Live A Soft Life
So, how do you show up with style and grace—even when life feels messy, uncertain, or straight-up chaotic? Consider these tips to help you calm the noise and live a soft life filled with joy and peace.
✨ Start with Self-Expression, Not Perfection.
Style isn’t about dressing to impress; it’s about dressing to express. Whether you’re in vintage finds or luxury labels, wear what makes you feel alive and aligned with your truth.
✨ Give Yourself Grace In Every Season.
Some days you’ll feel like Beyoncé. Other days, you’ll feel like hiding under the covers. Both are valid. Grace means honoring your journey— messy bun, power suit, and all.
✨ Let Your Environment Match Your Energy.
Surround yourself with pieces that reflect your soul. Whether it’s bold artwork or your favorite scent burning in a candle, curate spaces that refuel your spirit.
✨ Wear Your Culture Like Couture.
Incorporate elements of your heritage into your style, like cultural prints, natural hairstyles, and ancestral jewelry. Let your look tell the story of where you come from and who you are becoming.
✨ Lead With Your Legacy.
Style is a statement, but it’s also a service. Whether you’re mentoring others or showing up authentically, remember that the way you carry yourself permits others to do the same.
It’s about the lives we touch, the stories we tell, and the legacy we leave behind. So, here’s to living with style and grace every single day!
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
