Do you enjoy meeting new people? Hearing the stories of someone who is inspiring? If you answered yes to either of those, or find yourself enjoying having a simple conversation with someone else, we’re with you. And we want to offer this to you through THEM, a section of our blog that introduces the inspiring people we have had the fortunate experience of meeting. 

It was late in January of this year that we first heard from Talia, reaching out to us to help style one of her clients for an event. Since then, Talia has been a friend of ours and her styling career has proven to excel every day. 

Talia Pepe began her merchandising and styling career working for large brands and retailers such as American Apparel, Kate Spade, Tibi and others. She has since transitioned into a world of her own, styling photoshoots, music videos, clients, becoming a model herself. She is incredibly confident and personable, someone you want to continue working with even after a project finishes. 

From her website, “She found her footing styling at luxury boutiques/corporate offices like Burberry, Just Cavalli, Kate Spade, Tibi, Maison Margiela MM6, before working for high-profile editorial shoots with Refinery 29, V Magazine, and featured in Rolling Stone, Vibe, and XXL magazines. Her breakout modeling moment occurred during Yeezy Season 3, and was later invited back as a model for Yeezy Season 4.” 

The most enjoyable part of being a stylist for me is the art of visual storytelling. Also, connecting with other artists. When I am presented with an idea/vision/ treatment I learn so much about the artist and their process. Then I do research on the era/ references. It's nice to work with them to make those ideas a timeless imprint in their portfolio. 

A typical day in my life is waking up when the sun comes out. I try to do a round of emails as early as possible. After going on a run no later than 10:30-11 in my neighborhood. I live near Central Park so it's about a five-minute walk over to the trails. After my run, I'll make a smoothie or eat something light. By then my intern has arrived. We go over to do for the day/week the rollout more emails. I may be able to squeeze in a nap. My social life is pretty busy so from there I'll head downtown to grab food with friends (mostly dinner) and possibly hit a fashion art or music-related event. My curfew depends on the day of the week lol

Note: that all can change based on who I'm styling for the week. I recently worked with Refinery 29 Unbothered to style two beauty influencers. Those days are a minimum of 12 hours. I'll come home and watch Fresh Prince or something after to decompress. Maybe travel home to dc see family/ get anti for a day or so. Reset. And do it all again!

 What has shaped you the most to become who you are today?

This isn't hard to answer but I don't think I have the most simple answer.  It hasn't been one thing over another but mainly adversity and the value system I follow for life. A lot of the goals I set at a very early age determined the moves I made. Especially my career driven goals. I think faith, sacrifice, and focus has been a huge part of me working as a creative. Being a creative has taught me so much about myself...I could go on and on about this...

 

Would you change anything about your past? If so, what would it be?

I honestly wouldn't change anything. Not for nothing some days I wonder what things would have been like if I continued school and pursued a more structured path but those thoughts come and go very quickly when I realize how blessed I am to be living a dream I created as a kid.

 

We clearly understand as you say on your site, your "go-getter personality" the first time we met you. What is one piece of advice for someone who is not so much of a go-getter, but really should be?

Thank you! k A go-getter is really a hustler. Get on your grind. If you want it, go get it. TAKE risk! A good playlist always keeps my energy on point. I can share a few songs that'll motivate yall if you'd like lol. Also, stay balanced. Industry shit is cool when you are actually working but don't forget to prioritize your real friends and family. That's what keeps my heart at peace and ideas fresh.

 

You have a quote on your site that reads "everything I'm not made me everything I am." Why does this quote appeal to you?

 This quote has been my mantra since Freshmen year of high school when my dad bought me Kanye's "Graduation" cd. I was 14. It really resonated with me as a teenager because I grew up often feeling misunderstood. However strangely understood in places I only dreamt of. So seeing different sides of life made me understand I can manifest literally anything I want. Eventually, I went on to leave college just before my senior year. 10 years later I was modeling for Kanye in Yeezy...it's a very special full-circle thing for me. The circle keeps going too.

 

 

 

Hopefully, you have enjoyed meeting Talia and hearing a little more about her. Subscribe to our email newsletter for other stories from THEM, the inspiring people we have had the fortunate experience of meeting.