Rising Style Star: Sal Yvat

Sal Yvat is a Memphis-bred, Chicago-made interdisciplinary artist working as a wardrobe stylist and costume designer. With a B.A in Advertising Art Direction, Sal is able to interpret and execute visual ideas by combining relevant market trends with detailed research and a refined personal perspective. 

Since 2016, Sal has worked with a range of artists and brands, including Square, Nike, Yamaha, Conde Nast, and many more. With a love for connecting with people through wardrobe and fashion history; she is passionate about the ways fashion can be used to foster self-confidence and promote self-expression. In addition to her styling work, in 2019 Sal launched Look Authority Studio, a fashion-focused creative studio.

When did you know you wanted to be part of the fashion industry? How did you get started?

Since a young girl in Memphis TN I knew I wanted to be involved in fashion in some way. I used to draw figures quite a bit and explored the idea of being a fashion designer. I let that go because I never learned how to sew. I learned about fashion styling during my time at Columbia College Chicago. I enrolled in a class called Fashion Styling Principles (or something like that) and I was taught the basics. After that I started creating test shoots, connected with photographers via Instagram, and dressed the part.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style waxes and wanes. Overall, I call it southern grunge or reclaimed americana. I love classics like button ups and blazers but in bright colors or interesting shapes. I’d rather not think too hard about what I am going to wear. When I dress up, I always think of Tracee Ellis Ross. I like to do the least, while making a stunning statement.

What inspires you? Where do you go, or what do you do when you want to get into your creative zone?

I am inspired by dance. I danced when I was younger and now it’s a hobby of mine. Fashion relates to the body so I’m sure there’s some subconscious connection there. I also love music, film, and dinners with friends. I am always inspired after experiencing live music or art or my friends. I am a spiritual person so when I am going to my creative zone, I try to tap in with my spirit to make sure I am creating from the right place.

You're a fashion stylist. For those who aren't in the industry, can you explain what your job entails? What does a typical day of work look like for you?

To keep it short, I am a professional shopper and clothes adjuster. (LOL) As a stylist, I research and source clothing for visual projects and performances. A typical day starts with me making sure I am in a great headspace. I work out and meditate. Because the job requires a lot of manual labor and is very collaborative, I make sure my body and mind are ready for that. If it’s an editorial, I look for designers and small shops. if it’s commercial, I think about the deliverables and the most effective way to complete them.

You've had a lot of success in the industry. What advice would you give to someone who is interested in becoming a stylist?

I always say that styling is 60% labor and 40% collaboration. There’s a lot of prep work and research that goes into creating looks. It’s important to be ready for that. It also requires good money management, good memory, creative problem-solving skills, and a meticulous eye. Decide why you want to be a stylist and which lane you want to take. Styling for artists is way different than styling for commercials or editorials. Be comfortable with your point of view and above all be a genuine person.
 
Though you're best known for your styling, you have your hand in a lot of creative endeavors. Could you tell us about your company, The Look Authority?

Look Authority Studio is the name of my styling company. Right now, it’s sort of on hiatus but prior to this year, I used it as an avenue for inspiration, my jewelry making, and fashion show production. This year I’ve focused on styling - but I hope to get back into producing experiences under Look Authority next year.

What's one thing you wish people knew about what it's like to be a part of the fashion industry? 

Hmm. I hope people know that it doesn’t have to be catty or messy. You can be a genuine and real person without all of the extra.
 
What does being a part of Chicago's fashion community mean to you?  

Chicago means a lot to me because it was the place where I discovered styling. I never knew about styling really prior to college. I am so grateful to be a part of this community and to have been able to se so many designers and artists grow. I feel respected in Chicago because of how close we all are as artists. We see each other - and that’s a really lovely feeling.

Sal at Work…