Life & Work with Imee Elazegui

Today we’d like to introduce you to Imee Elazegui.

Hi Imee, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In high school, I was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Because of that, an outlet for self-expression was essential. I dyed my hair purple, started playing with makeup, and put together outfits as a hobby that soon became what I’m most passionate about. I started off in front of the camera, dressing myself for photoshoots in the Bay Area and collaborating with different photographers. This led to me posting my photos on Instagram and starting a fashion blog where I was able to build a following of over 3k. I started to realize how much I loved styling myself and wanted to give styling others a shot. With the help of the photographers I had connected with, I was given the opportunity to work with and style local models. Now I’m living in Downtown, Los Angeles where I’m attending the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising for Visual Communications and Fashion Design. I am a wardrobe stylist as well as the creator and writer of a mental health and fashion blog called Elusive.

Alright, 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?
Living with a disability has made attending school and living my day to day life extremely difficult in the past, especially in high school and my first few years of college. I was at first pursuing nursing in hopes to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner so I could help people like me. I finally realized that my life is for me and that following my dreams would help show people with schizophrenia that it’s possible to achieve our dreams. I changed my major and applied to my dream fashion school. Doing that has been a game-changer for my mental health and lifestyle. The frequency of my episodes have decreased and my hallucinations have become less extreme. Although it’s still not exactly easy, pursuing what I love has changed my life for the better. It definitely has been a tough yet rewarding journey.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a wardrobe stylist who helps models/photographers/directors/etc. bring their vision to life through what they’re wearing. Because I started off my love for hip hop culture, I started off with streetwear so I would say that’s one of my specialties. But I’m also known for being versatile because I’m able to achieve different types of fashion whether it be boho, chic, streetwear, edgy, or anything really. My versatility and open mind is what I’m most proud of and I think that’s what sets me apart from others.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Anything, big or small that can help my business and services grow is so appreciated. Hearting an Instagram post of mine, sharing it on your story, subscribing to my blog, or recommending clients to me is more than helpful. And of course, reaching out to me for my services and working with me is my number one goal to achieve! I am eternally grateful for all the support I’ve had so far.

Contact Info:

• Email: imeelazegui@gmail.com
• Website: https://www.imee-elazegui.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/imeelazegui
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imeelazegui

Image Credits:
Photographers: Miles Caliboso, Osvaldo Mendoza Models: Chiyo, Hira, Angel, Cassie, Claire, Virisa

 

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