Meet Trailblazer S. Dion Carroll

Today we’d like to introduce you to S. Dion Carroll.

S. Dion, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I grew up in Macon, Georgia. Not exactly a place is known for fashion. Around the age of 12, I became drawn to fashion magazines. My family had a scheduled day for grocery shopping. Each week I could not wait to head to the magazine section to study the advertisements. It was during this time, I learned about the famous Parisian and Italian designer fashion houses. For my 13th birthday, I asked for an authentic Louis Vuitton clutch. Most kids wanted a party or a new pair of Air Jordan. I wanted an authentic designer handbag. Since I was born to teenage parents, I was blessed to have my grandparents actively in my life. They all chipped in and bought me the clutch.

Because I didn’t know how to pursue a career in fashion; I decided to go to college and major in business. I hoped that this would serve me well in the industry. However, after college, I needed to begin work immediately. I started as an intern at a state agency. That work led to a full-time position and before I knew it I had started a career in the public sector. To increase my earning potential, I completed a master of science program in public policy at Georgia Tech. Which looking back at it; is an achievement I cherish as it was a trailblazing moment.

As I worked towards improving my career over the years, there was still a void. The little girl that dreamed of working in the fashion industry was still there. That’s when I discovered the world of blogging. I started an Instagram page in 2012, started attending New York Fashion Week in 2015, and created thefabsdion.com in 2016. From there, I’ve been honored to receive the support of many Fellow Fabs (followers) around the world.

Has it been a smooth road?
Being a blogger is not a smooth road at all. You have to continuously pave your own way. You can only depend on you. If your good friends aren’t already sensations in the blogging arena you’re seeking to join; you’re on your own. That can be scary. You’re going to have FOMO (fear of missing out) all the time! The bloggers in each arena already know and support each other.

The second struggle I’d like to mention is that I’ve had to have tough skin. You will get told no…a lot. You will think you’ve formed lasting business relationships that were only temporary. There will always be people saying mean things about you online. Always. The aforementioned are just the tip of the iceberg. I don’t even want to delve into companies not paying you for deliveries/sales, or simply giving you the runaround. We don’t have all day (lol).

My advice to young women just starting their journey is that if there is anything that interests you enough to cause a desire to share it with the world, do it! Having a natural affinity will show in everything you share. Your content will be effortless most times. All because your passion intuitively will know what to do. You can always see the passion. The most inspiration comes from passionate people. I’d also like to say don’t stop believing in your voice and perspective. There is room for everyone. I know everyone says this but it’s true; if you’re doing what you love, it doesn’t feel like work. Last but not least, it will be imperative to have people around you that support what you’re trying to do. Even if they don’t understand it.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a fashion/travel/beauty blogger. I blog and post content about fashion the most. I specialize in fashion month coverage and finding designer items that fit curvier bodies (up to an 18). This is what sets me apart from other curvy/plus bloggers. I actually write about what I see on the runways. I don’t just attend as a part of the culture. I actually want to see what’s next.

As a brand, I’m most proud of representing Atlanta and curvy women in fashion. I’m also proud to be educating curvy women on finding quality, stylish clothing (not just designer).

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
Blogging is an interesting field. The best way to seek a mentor and to network is to attend events in the areas of interest. I haven’t been able to connect with a mentor due to the nature of the business. People don’t like to share resources because they fear there isn’t room. What has worked well for me is connecting with like-minded bloggers to share a reciprocal relationship of support, resources, and motivation.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://thefabsdion.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabsdion/

Image Credit:
Second Photo In Dress/Art Image Credit: Funmi Ford

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.