Today we’d like to introduce you to Reginald Fontenot.
Hi Reginald, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I recall being a teen, faithfully watching music videos and sitcoms – always intrigued by the style of the artists and their dancers; and the actors and actresses on screen. I assumed that they were “fly” because they were on the East and West coasts, and had access to the hottest gear! At that time, the term “Fashion Stylist” really wasn’t coined or defined – even though the work was very much being done behind the scenes.
Initially wanting to become a fashion designer, I enrolled in and completed an A.A.S. degree in Fashion Design at Houston Community College – working a full-time job, and attending school part-time. While completing my studies, I often imagined myself dressing artists in my own designs. Through research and exposure, I learned of the avenue of fashion styling. I began to see styling credits in magazines and music videos. Inspired by editorial layouts, I felt confident that I too could curate looks for models and artists, so I pitched myself as a fashion stylist to local models and photographers, in an effort to build a portfolio that would display my work, and help me show and sell my craft.
Realizing the importance of continuing education, I enrolled in celebrity stylist Misa Hylton’s Fashion Academy. She was the creative force behind some of the most iconic looks for Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Lil Kim, Missy Elliot, and others; and a stylist whose work I truly admired. After flying back and forth from New York City monthly, for over a year, I graduated from the academy in 2017.
Having gained a little insight into the business side of being a stylist, I have since assisted other celebrity stylists, and have worked as an independent stylist on multiple projects.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been quite a long road, with its fair share of ups and downs.
In the beginning, I, unfortunately, fell victim to being cheated out of: money, styling credit, and raw and edited images; in addition to a host of unfulfilled promises. Fortunately, those experiences were the best teachers! I learned to establish boundaries, effectively communicate and negotiate, and ensure that contracts were in place for the protection of all parties.
My work as a stylist extends far beyond having a keen eye for what looks good on a client. It’s a grueling job which often demands long working hours, extensive travel, and a great deal of heavy lifting and hauling. While styling delivers glamorous outcomes, and I find it extremely rewarding, the work does involve a great deal of sacrifice. There are times when the phone isn’t ringing, I am rejected for assignments, or I simply have limited access to necessary resources. It can be challenging to maintain work/life balance when all of the demands on your time and energy have to be met in the ways that they are needed and/or expected.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As an innovative and artistic freelance stylist based in Houston, TX, I specialize in image consulting, personal styling, and the conceptualization and execution of editorial looks. My creativity covers periods from vintage to modern; and styles from street to runway. I serve as a trusted advisor to clients who rely on my expertise and experience to meet their wardrobe facilitation needs. My ultimate career aspiration is to become a costume designer in television and film.
I am known for my unique and versatile sense of style, which combines street sophistication with a retro drip – remixed, with that stank on it!
I am most proud of the growth that I’ve seen in myself as a result of my experiences. I am appreciative of the relationships that I have fostered with other creatives and collaborators along this journey as well.
I feel that my inclusive approach to fashion and my level of commitment to every task, assignment, or project, big or small, sets me apart from others. I also bring unique perspective and insight to production processes, including: creative direction, set design, shoot production, and casting, to name a few. Though a freelancer first and foremost, I am currently working with Haus of Brown, a Houston-based fashion production company, as Creative Director.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I believe that my success as a stylist rests very heavily upon my ability to persevere in the midst of adversity, especially after losing both my father and my brother unexpectedly, within 8 months of each other. Additionally, demonstrating patience, understanding, open-mindedness; and showing dependability, flexibility, and a necessary commitment to each assignment has contributed to my success and growth as a stylist. Along this journey, I’ve developed lasting professional relationships through networking, and have had the pleasure of working with some pretty amazing creatives!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @fontello.brown
Image Credits
Drew @gunzls.shots
