Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Shields
Hi Ashley, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always had a passion for fashion and individuality, which led me to start The Foxy Leopard Boutique. I wanted to create a space where bold, unique accessories could inspire people to express themselves confidently. Over time, that passion extended to wardrobe styling through Styled By Ley Nicole. Styling allowed me to help clients curate looks that feel authentically theirs. This year, I’m thrilled to expand my entrepreneurial journey by launching my online thrift store through Styled By Ley Nicole. It’s a dream come true to combine my love for thrifting and vintage finds with my vision of making sustainable, one-of-a-kind fashion accessible to everyone.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has taught me something valuable. Starting The Foxy Leopard Boutique came with the typical struggles of building a business from the ground up—learning marketing, managing finances, and finding the right suppliers to match my vision. As a wardrobe stylist, balancing creativity with the business side of things was another hurdle, especially when establishing my brand in a competitive industry. One of the biggest challenges, though, has been maintaining momentum and staying innovative in an ever-changing fashion landscape. Now, as I prepare to launch my thrift store, I’m navigating the complexities of building an online presence and managing inventory for a thrift store. It’s been a journey of trial and error, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything—the lessons I’ve learned along the way have made me and my business stronger.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work is all about helping people express their individuality through fashion. As the owner of The Foxy Leopard Boutique, I specialize in curating bold, statement-making accessories that elevate any outfit. As a wardrobe stylist, I’m known for my ability to mix high-end and thrifted pieces to create looks that feel timeless yet modern. My love for vintage fashion, especially from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, has become a hallmark of my style, and I pride myself on finding those hidden gems that make my clients feel unique.
What sets me apart is my dedication to sustainability and authenticity. With my upcoming online thrift store through Styled By Ley Nicole, I’m combining my passion for secondhand fashion with my mission to make style both accessible and eco-friendly. I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients over the years—helping someone feel confident and beautiful is the most rewarding part of what I do. I strive to create an experience that’s not just about clothes but about celebrating individuality and empowering others to express themselves fearlessly.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5-10 years, I see the fashion industry continuing its shift toward sustainability, inclusivity, and individuality. Consumers are becoming more conscious about where their clothes and accessories come from, leading to a growing emphasis on thrifting, upcycling, and ethical production practices. Vintage and secondhand fashion will likely become even more mainstream as people seek unique pieces that stand out and align with their values.
Technology will also play a huge role in shaping the industry. Virtual styling tools, AI-driven fashion curation, and augmented reality shopping experiences are already emerging and will only grow more sophisticated, creating personalized, convenient ways for people to shop. Social media will remain a powerful force, with platforms like Instagram and Pinterest driving trends and showcasing the creativity of smaller, independent brands like mine.
I also see more emphasis on body positivity and inclusivity, with brands embracing diverse models, sizing, and cultural representation. Overall, I’m excited about the direction the industry is heading—it’s becoming more innovative, personal, and intentional, which is exactly the kind of space I want to thrive in with The Foxy Leopard Boutique and Styled By Ley Nicole.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thefoxyleopard.bigcartel.com & https://styledbyleynicole.bigcartel.com
- Instagram: @tflboutique / @styledbyleynicole
