Stylish Stylist Darlene

For this post, I decided to do a Q&A to find out more about Darlene, the stylist and entrepreneur.  I've known her for a while as the witty, always stylish, business-savvy stylist. For this Q&A, I wanted to go beyond the hilarious one-liners (if you know Darlene, you know what I mean) for an informative interview. 

Why are you so passionate about doing hair? 

I feel as though "hair chose me". I would get into all types of "hair mischief" as a kid. I cut my hair and my younger sister's hair when I was 6 and she was 2. I burned my barbie dolls' hair by attempting to curl it. I played with my Playskool "Dolly Surprise" a lot. You could raise the arms to grow & shorten the hair...:-)
What types of hair do you specialize in? 

I am a multicultural hair stylist. My motto is "Specializing in all hair types". Although I have certain types of services/methods/techniques I prefer to do, I am able to service clients of all ethnic groups. I've always had a passion, for hair, period. I only see TEXTURE,  "curly, straight, kinky, wavy".

I've heard you talk about the "convertible color", what is that?

It's a fun way to wear hair color, with minimal maintenance. Come and see me for a consult: 904-742-1183

Have you been featured in print, media, or publication? 

Yes. My most recent relevant publishing was in November. I was the Lead Hair Stylist for Tilted Kilt's 2013 "Kilt Girl" Calendar. It is available nationally, in all of their restaurants, over 60 locations. I will be featured in Sophisticates Black Hair Guide soon.
What's been the highlight of your career thus far? 

I would say working on the Tilted Kilt calendar. It was something I enjoyed doing, plus I was paid well. 
What kind of training have you had?

I have been trained under various companies/educators, such as: Mizani, Pivot Point, Scruples, Paul Mitchell, SoCap USA, Paris Hilton Dreamcatchers, Great Lengths, SoCap USA, Platinum Seamless, Brazilian Keratin Treatment (Marcia Texiera), Brazilian Blowout & Design Essentials; also training through educators such as Beth Mindardi, Patric Bradley, Martin Parsons & Miki Wright. I was certified as a Gold Key Educator for Kevin Murphy. Although I'm no longer affiliated, I really enjoyed using the products, the people I worked with, and learning so many awesome techniques. I'm not opposed to educating in the future, I just want to focus on branding "Beauty by Darlene", and promoting my self first.

What can your clients and potential clients expect from you in the future? 

They can expect me to use high quality products and provide them with a high quality service, to the best of my ability. I will also continue to stay on top of my education, and branch out more into styling for Fashion Shows, Photo Shoots, Publications and Special events. 

Do you have a passion for fashion as well? If so, what have you done? Yes. I love Fashion. I'd love to get into Fashion Styling, too. I've been told that I have a talent for both Fashion and Make-up. I love them both, however they require a lot of time to build up clientele. (Side note: Here Darlene came up with the concept for the outfit in the video).

Who's your favorite designer? 

Clothing: Tom Ford, Handbags: Tory Burch, Shoes: Christian Louboutin.
When not doing hair, what do you do to relax and unwind?

My interests are very broad, I love traveling, going to events,  going to the beach, playing board games & active games/activities, working out, writing, cooking, and of course shopping!
What was the concept for your latest shoot? 

I decided to do a personal shoot. I felt it was time to do something for me! I even had a Fashion Stylist, Johnakeshia Thompson. I wanted to look like myself, but with a higher "Wow Factor", but not in an overly sexy way. My inspiration was a photograph of Brandy, from the Nicole Bitchie blog. I think Brandy has really "grown into her own" so, to speak. She looks amazing now. Here's the link to more of the photos. http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/9PfyL-Qb2L4/Brandy+Greets+Fans+in+NYC

Make-up by? 

Donna Fowler Kemp
Hair? Style? 

I made the Seamless Hair Extensions and came up with the color palette. Laura Lee Wade installs them for me.
Photographer? 

Corey Focus

Where are you located? 

I am inside of Mosaic Salon Studios. My suite is "Beauty by Darlene". Clients are serviced inside of my private studio and they love it!
What are your hours of operation?

I usually work Tuesday through Saturday, by appointment. I work long hours, since quite a few of my clients need appointments after 4pm. I'm available on Sunday/Monday, by request, for Weddings, Photo Shoots or Special Events.

Do you have a website? 

Yes. www.beautybydarlene.com 

Top: Liz Claiborne

Skirt: Bisou Bisou

Necklace: Provided by Johnakeshia Thompson

Shoes: Qupid

Belt: New York & Co.

Accessories: JCPenney