Today we’d like to introduce you to Frankie Gilmore.
Frankie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started my style consulting business in 2009 on a whim and suggestion from a future client who saw I had a knack for styling others. During that time, I was pursuing a master’s degree in Public Health at the University of Georgia and focusing on a career in the health field. To help pay for school, I worked as a graduate assistant at the UGA Alumni Association. I would often attend class in my outfits for work and started getting attention from my classmates and my co-workers for my outfits. I initially offered to help friends and colleagues with their style. However, this soon turned into consulting and being compensated for my knowledge of style. Since then, I have continued to work with clients for ten years – taking breaks to fulfill my role as wife and mother to my three kids.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The business started somewhat spontaneously but has endured with effort and connecting with my clients on a consistent basis. Being a stylist can be somewhat isolating as a profession. When I started, there weren’t many stylists creating everyday looks for others unless you styled in retail or for celebrities. Style is so personal to an individual and earning trust and gaining a new client can be challenging at an initial meeting or on social media. However, I’ve found my best clients have been referrals from other friends or current clients.
An additional struggle would be balancing a business with being a wife and mother of 3 small children. I‘ve found that work has ebbed and flowed with changes in my family life and I look forward to even more experiences as my children grow and become more independent.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Gilmore Style Consulting – what should we know?
I am a talented wardrobe stylist who has been fashion consulting and revitalizing wardrobes since 2009. The focus of my work is to help women create styled looks for their everyday lives. I achieve this goal by using my 3-Phase Style Process:
Style Assessment – Discovering your personal style (via Style Questionnaire)
Wardrobe Edit – “Reduce, reuse, or recycle” pieces in your closet
Personal Shopping – Refreshing your wardrobe with a style-specific shopping plan
I am most proud of the lasting impact I’ve had on my clients. I’ve had clients get married, find a new sense of self, and feel more energized about their life and purpose in the world. It’s nice to feel like I’ve had a part to play in the lives of my clients.
What sets me apart from others is that I work with my clients to discover their style based on who they are and the lives they live. It is highly specialized and develops organically – creating a style that is long-lasting and communicates to themselves and to others their inner and outer beauty.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have definitely not gotten to this in my business alone. I have had close friends, clients, and family encourage me to go the distance and stick with styling. My husband is my number one supporter who encourages me to keep working hard, especially when the demands of life seem too challenging. Lastly, my faith in God has allowed me to be patient for continued success, trusting in God’s purpose as I am helping my clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.frankiestyle101.com
- Email: frankiestyle101@gmail.com
- Instagram: @frankiestyle101
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frankiegilmorestyle/
Image Credit:
First photo (Frankie & Dress Form) – Alex Gaines; Eighth/Last photo – Renee Jael & Co
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