This weekend has many successful women in business scrambling to figure out what to wear as they head down to the inner harbor in Baltimore to enjoy the Grand Prix. MyCity4Her caught up with stylist extraordinaire and entrepreneur Stephanie Bradshaw in mid-flight (literally) from LAX on her way to NYC – via a brief stop in Baltimore to learn more about her successful business, not to mention get some great tips on how to look great, stay cool and be fashionably chic throughout this weekend’s activities.
How long have you been styling people and parties?
I started by business in 2006 but have been styling events for many, many years prior to the doors of STEPHANIE BRADSHAW opening. As for people, I think that started when I was a small child. My father loves mixing and matching suit jackets, ties and pocket squares. I used to always help him select a trio before church on Sunday mornings.
What inspires you?
Travel, fashion, art, nature, my clients and staff!
Why do you think people are so intimidated by fashion?
I think it is intimating because there are simply so many options. Flipping through the pages of fashion magazines (especially the September issues) and deciphering what works best on YOU, is the key. Don’t get sucked into trying all the season’s new trends. Pick one or two that you want to try, and have fun with it. Take chances, but dress in what makes YOU feel good. Confidence is the best accessory any women can carry.
With the Grand Prix coming up…it’s a struggle to look good, be comfortable and stay cool – any suggestions for our audience on how to do so?
Select fabrics that are soft and airy (pieces that are loose and comfortable) and easy to wear. You can easily dress up a silk tank and skirt with a statement necklace and look chic while enjoying the day’s events at the same time.
What are your inspirations for Finish Line Ready style?
Soft, relaxed fabrics that will move in the breeze when the cars blow by!
What’s a great go-to outfit for an upscale outdoor function like the Grand Prix for men? for women?
For men, shorts and comfortable loafers or a lightweight pair of denim and a crisp, white shirt. You can never go wrong with the classics and you definitely want to wear something that compliments your lady.
What made you decide to become a business owner?
I think I wanted to make a greater difference than I was able to make working for someone else. The stars were aligned and I just decided “I can do this!”
What if you knew THEN what you know NOW – would you might have done differently if you were starting your business today?
Hmmm, that is a tough one. I don’t really have any regrets, but I think I might have taken a few more business classes in college.
What is the best business advice you’ve ever been given?
The day after I didn’t make the cheerleading team (going into 8th grade) my mother slipped a note in my lunch box saying “Keep practicing and keep reaching for the goals you want.” I still have that very note in a small frame on my dresser (mixed in with all my pretty jewels). At the time, I don’t think she knew what a profound effect that little love note would have, but I still look at it every day and it is pretty darn good (business) advice too!
About Stephanie Bradshaw: STEPHANIE BRADSHAW is a business owner, as well as an accomplished event planner, interior designer and personal stylist; not to mention the editor behind SBinspired where she share daily musings for creative entertaining, stunning interiors, brilliant fashion, playful color palettes, and 100’s of reasons why she and her team.loves their job. For more information about Ms. Bradshaw visit Bradshawstyling.com