Today we’d like to introduce you to Carnita Whimper.
Hi Carnita, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I am Carnita Nicole, a Wardrobe Stylist, Creative Director, and Content Creator based in Los Angeles. Hailing from Pine Bluff, Arkansas, I am the only child of Carl and Alneta Whimper. My educational journey took root at my hometown’s esteemed HBCU, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Business. Building upon this foundation, I pursued and obtained my master’s in business economics from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.
Driven by desire to carve my niche in the world of fashion, I made the pivotal decision to transplant myself to Los Angeles after 2 years of working in Marketing for Walmart/Sam’s Club post my graduate program. It was here that my aspirations to become a Wardrobe Stylist began to blossom into reality. I initially found myself immersed in the buying appointments and managing over 1/2 million dollars for 552 doors at my corporate apparel buying job. However, my role swiftly evolved, encompassing responsibilities that saw me collaborating closely with the Creative Director. Together, we styled product shoots and captivating advertising campaigns, laying the groundwork for my future endeavors. Beyond my corporate experience, I actively networked via social media & collaborated with creative peers in the area on test shoots. It was through these collaborative efforts that an exciting opportunity presented itself: a magazine extended an invitation for me to take lend on styling for the editorial cover shoot featuring a music artist I was familiar with, Toni Romiti.
In 2019, I took the leap to pursue my passion full-time, transitioning into the role of a professional Stylist. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to tread alongside luminaries of both the celebrity sphere and esteemed brands. From press shoots to music videos, stage performances, editorials, campaigns, red carpets, and everything in between, I’ve lent my creative touch to a ton of projects. I’m blessed with the opportunity to amplify storytelling through Styling & Creative Direction, and I continue to embrace each new opportunity with gratitude and enthusiasm.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest challenge, initially, was learning on my feet through entrepreneurship in a field I could not receive a degree for when I matriculated through university. I’ve built my business around my interests, and what I love to do, so challenges are more opportunities that need a solution or a way to do them better. There are a lot of unknowns for the aspiring Wardrobe Stylist, so I’ve always made myself available to speak to students and creators, participate in panels, and offer e-books as a digital resource on my website (www.carnitanicole.com).
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
Well, I like to think of myself as a multi-hyphenated creative nestled in the heart of the entertainment and fashion industry. My expertise? It’s a blend of wardrobe styling for both celebrities and esteemed brands, orchestrating captivating advertising campaigns, curating compelling fashion & beauty content, and navigating the intricate world of freelance apparel buying. But if you were to pin me down to just one thing, I’d say I’m predominantly known for Wardrobe Styling.
As for what makes my heart swell with pride, it’s gotta be the moment when my client Cynthia Kaye McWilliams strutted onto the BET Awards stage, capturing the press for Best Dressed/Best Dressed Couple courtesy of the BET Network and other sources this past awards season. It was a triumph not just for her but for our collaborative vision. Plus, being able to assemble and nurture my own team through Creative Directing has been nothing short of a dream realized. Working alongside friends, doing what I love, it’s truly an answered prayer.
Now, what sets me apart from the crowd? It’s not just my education and experiences, although those certainly play a part. It’s my unwavering investment in my clients’ growth. I’m not just there to dress them; I’m there to champion their journey. I bring to the table a potent blend of fashion expertise and savvy marketing strategies. It’s about more than just clothes; it’s about crafting narratives that captivate, fostering connections that endure, and driving tangible results.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
Two apps dominate my daily productivity: Canva and Pinterest. They’re not just tools; they’re indispensable companions in crafting mood boards and pitch decks, enabling me to bring my creative visions to life with efficiency and finesse.
My journey into entrepreneurship was sparked by the profound insights of “The Four Hour Work Week.” It emboldened me to take the leap, transforming my aspirations into tangible ventures with courage and determination.
In the realm of personal growth, “The Four Agreements” has been a guiding light, teaching me the power of mindful speech and the profound impact of the words we choose to manifest our reality.
And who could forget “You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life”? This witty and insightful read not only nudged me out of my own way but also ignited a flame of self-belief and empowerment, propelling me towards embracing my full potential.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carnitanicole.com
- Instagram: carnitanicole
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carnita-nicole-lawardrobestylist/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCW6mESNFZAX7pUSwiq-1_WA
