Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron ( Dourjé The Fashion Stylist) Washington.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I discovered my passion for fashion while I was in high school, especially during my senior year. However, it was in college, despite facing job scarcity and having limited clothing options, that my taste began to develop more significantly. After relocating back to Ohio, I started creating my own fashion looks and got involved in modeling with local colleges.
Before long, small fashion organizations and photographers began to notice my work, and I started styling photo shoots. I experienced considerable success with my shoots, which led to opportunities for traveling with collections I styled and participating in fashion shows in Dayton, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Kentucky. My professionalism and creative eye opened doors for me to collaborate with various boutiques.
As my reputation grew from my fashion shows, I attracted celebrity clients, including gospel artist Tonya Baker, hair stylist and educator J. Ladner, and podcast creator and owner Ace Metaphor. Recently, I took my talents to Tampa, Florida, where I styled for Tampa Bay Fashion Week. Florida quickly took notice of my work, especially in Tampa and St. Petersburg, thanks to the acclaimed photographer Brian James.
Now, I am back in Ohio, moving at a slow and steady pace, but I have big things on the horizon!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Whew, yes, the road has been a struggle. Fashion stylists have it pretty hard out here, if you ask me. People think it’s easy, like we just play with clothes and that’s it. No, we have to work our way up from the bottom, even in our own city. I often hear that the world still doesn’t know or understand what we do. It also takes relocating to make your big break happen.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am not your typical fashion stylist; my work often leans towards out-of-the-box fashion shows and photo shoots. With more than a decade of experience in fashion styling, I have showcased a wide range of styles, from avant-garde couture to high-fashion formal wear and evening attire. However, I am primarily recognized for my editorial street fashion.
One of my proudest achievements is that much of my work is now being recognized beyond Ohio, in places like Atlanta, Georgia, and Florida. It has even been featured on television and YouTube. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with numerous models and actresses whose careers have soared.
What sets me apart is my determination; I haven’t given up despite still being based in Ohio. Knowing that my work is being seen outside of my state is incredibly impactful, not just for me but also for others. Sometimes, it takes me sitting down and reflecting on my journey to fully appreciate the growth I’ve experienced as a stylist. However, there is still so much more I want to accomplish.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I am most social media platforms
Facebook: Aaron Dourje Washington
Facebook Business Page: Dourje’ The Fashion Stylist
Instagram: Dourje_the_fashionstylist
Tiktok: Dourje_35
Website: Dourjethefashionstylist.com
Email: AaronWashington29@gmail.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dourjethefashionstylist.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dourje_the_fashionstylist?igsh=MXBiOXJhNWdkdTE1Zw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1aYaiTZftK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dourje_35?_t=ZP-8vaJd7JccwR&_r=1
Image Credits
BrittneyCheri
BrainJamesPhoto
DemiGawwd_Media
Eighthyonevisuals
Mr.Brownphotograhy
