Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Courtney Davila

Courtney Davila shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Courtney, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
Hi, thank you so much for having me! It’s an honor to be chatting again.
The Fashion Styling industry is prone to many misconceptions, likely due to movies and television. People imagine that styling is a glamorous career, though it is truly more of a “behind the scenes” role. Your job as a stylist is to make sure that the client looks good, and a lot of unseen time, energy, and resources goes into making that outcome possible. Because outsiders rarely witness these preparation stages, some imagine that stylists obtain clothes easily, or even for free. This is rarely the case. It takes a lot of expertise, strategizing, and let’s face it—hard work—to dress someone, especially at the celebrity level. Our work is often overshadowed and underestimated. For this reason, many stylists are not paid a living wage, or asked to work for no compensation at all.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Yes! I am what you might call a Fashion Stylist or Wardrobe Stylist, who specializes in e-commerce campaigns, editorial photoshoots, and personal styling. I have styled for the likes of Revolve, goodr Sunglasses, and the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. With 6+ years of styling experience—I vow to bring a perspective of sustainability, compassion, and authenticity to the industry.

I spend most of my time with personal styling clients. I love getting to know my clients, forming a connection, and using fashion to help them achieve their professional career and lifestyle goals. I also run a free online mentorship group for aspiring stylists on Instagram. We work together to intercept gatekeeping in the styling community. I love utilizing my knowledge to help others blaze their own path in the fashion world!

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Being a stylist is all about self-expression, making an impact, and telling stories through fashion. I think that as you grow up, it’s very easy to lose a part of yourself to the world, which constantly asks us to conform and make ourselves smaller. As each year passes, I find myself yearning for the carefree attitude I inhabited when I was a child—realizing that it’s okay to have big ideas, to take up space, and to be earnest. As a solo entrepreneur, I am the face of my business. As some may shy away from the spotlight, I am letting myself embrace it. It’s fun to be seen, to be heard, and to wear fun, silly outfits that take me back to that childlike sense of whimsy and play.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Of course. Honestly, there are too many times to count. Some folks say that you are closest to your big break when you feel like giving up the most. It all comes with the territory of being an entrepreneur.

Whenever I feel like giving up, I try to remember my “why.” Why do I want to be in this industry, why are my dreams important, why am I getting out of bed in the morning? I think the right career will continually test you and push you to grow and expand. It’s okay to question your path, as long as you remember to re-center yourself.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
One belief I remain immensely committed to is my desire to improve the fashion styling industry. Stylists deserve to be paid a living wage, get credited for their work, and to be treated fairly and equally. It is too often I see myself—or the others I mentor—get taken advantage of by clients and corporations alike.

Fashion Stylists are an essential part of the digital world, print magazines, Hollywood celebrities, music and music videos, runway shows, and TV & film. Not only do we “show up with the clothes,” but we create beauty, powerful imagery, and are storytellers for brands, artists, and publications. Our work is valuable and deserving of recognition and fair compensation.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing? 
I try my best not to live with any regrets. Most importantly, I will never regret setting boundaries for myself in my work, my client relationships, and even with myself. Business owners generally have no rules, no playbook, or standard practices to look to. You build your business with a myriad of your own small, everyday actions.

When your boundaries are tested, whether it’s receiving a lowball offer from a client, or simply forgetting to eat on a busy day, it’s essential to recognize that you, and not anyone else, are responsible for creating your business’ culture. As scary as it can feel in the moment, I never regret having prioritized myself. I’ll think, “Will people say I’m difficult to work with?” When I look back, I usually wish I had spoken up even more! I encourage others to do the same with kindness and grace.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.courtneydavila.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtstylist/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-davila/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yourlesbianstylist
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@yourlesbianstylist

Image Credits
Cayden Williams
Gohar Asatryan
Abigail Gorden
Andrea Perez
Debra Orols
@Adrianthephotographer