Samantha Elise: The Meteoric Rise of a Top Fashion Stylist in Chicago

Samantha Elise’s journey into the fashion industry began at her high school in Missouri. What started as casually posting outfit photos on Instagram evolved into a successful career as a stylist in Chicago. Now, she openly embraces her identity and experiences a profound sense of freedom in her work.

In this article, Samantha invites readers into her world by sharing a week’s worth of outfits alongside her personal experiences, which range from her love of ballet to her journey of self-discovery as an adopted individual.

Exploring Samantha’s Signature Looks

The No-Fuss Uniform

One of Samantha’s go-to ensembles is her “no-fuss uniform.” It consists of loose jeans from Madewell, an Everlane shirt, and a cozy ASOS sweater. This outfit is versatile and suitable for various settings. Samantha states, “The jeans are loose, so I can eat happily,” allowing her the comfort to enjoy meals without restriction. The layered approach makes it adaptable, whether she is at a museum or outdoors with the sweater draped over her shoulders.

Playing with Vests

Another essential piece in Samantha’s wardrobe is the vest. She points out that vests can be worn alone or layered over tops, such as a T-shirt or turtleneck. “Experimentation is key,” she advises, encouraging others to embrace the learning curve involved in discovering their favorite outfits. Perfecting one’s style takes time, and enjoying the process is crucial.

Reflections on Ballet and Identity

Samantha’s background in ballet has significantly influenced her perspective. She began dancing at a young age and trained with the Boston Ballet School for six years. Transitioning from local classes to a professional environment was surreal. She recalls, “The atmosphere felt like Black Swan—intense and competitive.” Although she loved ballet, she often felt out of place, being the only Black girl in her class, which led to uncertainty about her identity.

Her dedication to dance was evident as she wore a leotard daily, leaving little room for personal style. However, on her days off, she explored Boston, drawing inspiration from the diverse fashion around her, ranging from casual streetwear to sophisticated office attire. This exposure played a pivotal role in shaping her understanding of fashion.

Embracing Personal Style After Ballet

Breaking Free

Once Samantha stepped away from ballet, she felt liberated. She describes the sensation as akin to a “wild horse running free on the beach.” Shortly after leaving, she made significant changes to her appearance, including cutting her hair and getting tattoos. “I wanted to resist anything tight-fitting,” she recalls, as her newfound freedom allowed her to express herself through clothing in ways she had previously avoided.

The Confidence of a Blazer

Among her favorite fashion staples is the blazer, which she believes adds an instant confidence boost to any outfit. Samantha excels at finding unique pieces at thrift stores, where she can acquire vintage blazers for as little as $5. She suggests checking the men’s section for blazers with dramatic shoulder pads that add a chic flair to her wardrobe.

Shopping for clothes has always been a cherished activity for Samantha, reminiscent of treasure hunts at Goodwill with her mother during childhood. She values the thrill of discovering hidden gems in thrift fashion. Now, she approaches thrifting with a playlist, transforming the experience into a therapeutic ritual.

Understanding Denim and Intuitive Dressing

Mastering Denim-on-Denim

When it comes to denim, Samantha has mastered the art of mixing denim washes to create a cohesive look. She recalls wearing a specific outfit—a set that many assumed was coordinated—at least fifty times one summer. Her top was a lucky find from a Target collaboration, while her jeans were from Madewell. She emphasizes, “Understanding denim washes allows for effortless styling.”