Today we’d like to introduce you to Gigi Williams.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Gigi. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Fashology began 3.5 years ago as a site to help women learn how to dress for themselves. I believe when you know how to dress properly for your body type, lifestyle, personality, and budget you exude confidence. We are all unique and beautiful in our own way and we should celebrate that!
I haven’t always been into fashion, growing up I would have rather been playing sports with the guys. My interest peaked in high school where I was apart of the marketing vocational studies program. Part of marketing is looking the part, right? So, I traded my Chuck Taylors for stilettos and decided the next move would be to get my bachelors of science in Fashion Merchandising. While I was working towards my degree, I was managing and buying for a specialty women’s clothing boutique. I got hands-on experience with customers and traveling to NYC for shows, it really gave me such an adrenaline rush. I loved the one-on-one connection I had with my customers and the feeling I got when I helped them find the perfect piece to add to their wardrobe. Like all good this my experience at the boutique came to an end and I moved on to corporate retail. Currently, I work full time at J.Jill as an assistant merchant for the Pure Jill collection. I believe that all of my experiences both personal and professional are getting aligned to set me up to do amazing things with Fashology.
I’ve done a couple talks this year at a couple local boutiques including Sloane & Ivy and Best Dressed. I’ve been focusing more on written with a purpose so my community can truly glean information they can apply. I’m so excited to see what’s next!
Great, 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 definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I find balancing my full-time job at J.Jill, Fashology and my personal life is always a struggle. I like to keep work and my side hustle separate in combination with knowing when to just log off and give myself a brain break.
The influencer market is completely saturated which can be overwhelming and frustrating. Like I had mentioned previous I’ve been at this for 3.5 years and my following isn’t super huge but it’s real! I recently went to a blogger conference (yes, that’s a thing) in Raleigh, NC. One of the themes was that yes, the influencer community may seem crowded but there is room for all of us because we have our own stories and experiences to share. Also, that follower and likes don’t matter, the community will out weight that. Brands are more aware of engagement now than likes.
A piece of advice that isn’t necessarily related to blogging is, to do you girl. People can be great but they can also suck. But if you stay true to who you are and your core values not compromising that life will be a little easier. It’s amazing how your world opens when you realize that people say or do mean things because they are jealous. Put your hater blockers on & keep your head up.
what should we know about Fashology? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Fashology currently is a website that offers relate-able fashion advice. I also offer personal styling whether it be shopping for an outfit for a special occasion or you need a full wardrobe edit. In addition to that, I do guest speaking where I can come to your business or office and teach on topics such as dressing for your body type, packing tips, how to dress for the workplace, and so much more. I have some fun stuff in the works so stay tuned!
I think what I’m most proud of & what sets me apart from others is that I’m authentic. A common phrase I use is that “I’m riding the hot mess express.” Literally, life gets crazy and I’m not going to pretend it isn’t. A couple weeks ago I had no makeup wipes or napkins and I was running from work to a fashion show, so I had to clean my red lip up with a tampon. LOL!
Another thing that sets me apart is that I believe in celebrating YOU! Not the blogger you think that has a perfect life, the model in that magazine or your neighbor that may have more material things than you. You were given one life to live with the one body you were given and I want to help women freaking rock that!
Who do you look up to? How have they inspired you?
Many women have inspired me through my life. My mom and grandmother come first to mind they are both extremely driven, independent, & strong. I admire them so much and like to think I’ve gotten some of those traits.
Need to give my little sister, Emma a shout out too. In a lot of ways, I’ve never been the perfect sister but she makes me want to strive to be a better role model every day.
My mentor, Colleen, has helped teach me compassion. My mother-in-law, Dawn, has inspired in the sense that sometimes it has to be about you and your family, no one else.
All the women I have collaborated with and the women in my community, they keep me going. These women are so influential, inspiring, and empowering.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fash-ology.com
- Email: gigi@fash-ology.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fashology
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fashology101/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/fashology101
Image Credit:
Chelsea Lowe Photography @clowephoto, Lauren Elizabeth Photography @behindleweyes
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