Meet Britt Layton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Britt Layton.

Britt, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I began my career as a stylist in Washington D.C. roughly ten years ago. I had just graduated college with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and migrated to D.C. with plans to become a private tutor. While in the process of finding a client, I snagged a retail job—in an attempt to squeak out my rent. The retail job evolved into a buyer’s position at a vintage store a few blocks away. For the first time in my life, I was involved in the “business of fashion” and it was exhilarating for me. Doors opened and I found myself styling for photoshoots, which was a source of creative satisfaction that I had not yet experienced. I was raised to be very practical and although I was always interested in clothing I assumed it would be a forever hobby, never did I imagine it as an option for a sustainable career.

I soon moved to New York as I was drawn to the energy and the thriving culture of creatives. I worked a corporate job and then weened my way off of it as I started freelance styling. I was suddenly working with who I perceived to be the best of the best in the fashion world. It was an intense and unforgettable journey as I learned the business through trial and error. Several years later, I moved to Los Angeles where I am currently based.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Starting out, I had to build my portfolio, oftentimes having to front an obscene amount of money for photoshoots that I wasn’t getting paid for. This was also before the days of Uber and Lyft- cabs were so expensive that I would take the train to do all of my pickups and returns. Lugging a suitcase up and down the stairs of the subway stations became a daily ritual. Aside from the actual physical and financial struggles, putting yourself out there as a creative takes a lot of courage and vulnerability that was initially very hard for me. Finding confidence in my abilities was one of the biggest struggles I had to overcome.

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
When I tell people that I am a wardrobe stylist, I generally get a response of feigned recognition. Most often, people assume that I’m just a designer, however I am not! Wardrobe stylists source clothing from different designers, showrooms, etc. and assemble looks- styling them in a purposeful way. I specialize in editorial styling but also tend to get hired for music videos, commercials, or print advertising. I’m also very comfortable in the realm of personal styling. I was once told that my style was simple but strong and I’ve kept that with me over the years as I believe it rings true in regard to my overall aesthetic.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
At the moment, I think we’re all a bit unsure of the future but I do believe that we will crawl out of this global tragedy with a new appreciation for the world of beauty and art. I am so grateful for everything that I have been able to accomplish and I look forward to the growing success of my brand. More than anything, I hope that through learning and evolving- further mastering my craft- I will be provided opportunities to collaborate with artists that challenge and inspire me.

Contact Info:

• Website: brittlayton.com
• Email: [email protected]

Image Credit:
Photographer: Graham Dunn

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