A simple reminder of the value of those that serve.
As a wardrobe stylist, I used to get upset at myself when I would hear the 2018 hit song, “No Stylist” by rappers, French Montana and Drake. I would get disappointed in myself because there I was- a stylist- turning up to a song that contradicts what I do and what I stand for. It was only after I saw the name dropping, name brand laced video that I realized there was no need to feel disgusted with myself for liking the song that seemingly discredited my passion in the catchiest of ways. In fact, after seeing the video I realized that the whole vibe of the video shows appreciation for stylists and the hard, yet often silent and unnoted, work we do.
The 3 minute and 32 second video began with rapper, A$AP Rocky, flossing multiple iced out chains while saying, “F*ck a stylist”
As the song booms across the airwaves with a beat that will make even the most conservative man in the room nod his head, the melodic falsetto of French Montana’s phrase “no stylist” plays over a video filled with name brands, models, and even one of the most notable and regarded wardrobe designers and stylists of modern culture-Mr. Dapper Dan. The 3 minute and 32 second video began with rapper, A$AP Rocky, flossing multiple iced out chains while saying, “F*ck a stylist” …yes, you can insert your eye roll here. This same video, however, ended with an interesting and very ironic plot twist- stylists of all types (wardrobe, hair, makeup, set) came to assist the rappers, French Montana and eye patched Slick Rick who, seemingly, were driving down the New York streets with a drop top convertible and gold-link lined front tags that said “Paid N F” but were actually in front a green screen, in a parked car, that was clearly provided for a video shoot set. The scene then closes showing two beautiful women, that appeared in the video a few times, being primped and prepared by –well, yes, I’m sure you’ve guessed it by now—their STYLISTS.
Now, the beautiful irony of this video makes my heart leap for joy because the message was clear-stylists and others that serve in the service industry are vital, essential, and certainly indispensable. Those of us that take care of your clothes, your shoes, your hair, your nails, your makeup, etc. are valuable pieces to the game. Not only do we boost your outer image, but we do a lot to boost your inner esteem as well. There is no “No Stylists” video without the countless stylists that contributed to making the video pop with looks and flare. The swagger, the illusion of perfection, the art of it all is so particularly important and it takes those that have passion, ability, talent, charisma, and an eye for beauty to take something from being average to “unfuckwithable.”
We are here for you- always have been, ALWAYS WILL BE.
If you remove those that serve, you add time to your schedule, countless classes to your “to do” list, thousands of dollars to your debt tab for credentialing, wear and tear on your body, judgement from people that look down on you as “just” a stylist or “just” a nail tech, time away from family and friends, and you add a lifetime of people questioning your worth- on top of whatever trials and issues you already have. Please be aware that we take a load off of you whether you realize and respect it or not. We are your friend. You trust us with your vulnerabilities- we get to see what you deem as the bald spots, the too big thighs, and the too thin lips, we get to hear about your child’s dilemma at school and we offer you advice. We are present for your biggest moments in life- we dressed you for your wedding, and for that big interview. We prepared your nails for all the handshakes and your feet for those summer days at the beach. We gave you a free cut after the divorce, and a discount on the day you just were not feeling like yourself. Yes, we have been there for all of that. We are here for you- always have been, always will be.
When you see your trash man, your mechanic, your nail tech, your stylist and your barber- tell them thank you. Tell them you respect them and appreciate what they do. Tell them you see their value and tip them well if you’re able to do so.
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