In need of stylish and practical fashion tips? Let me introduce you to Tejumade a.k.a The Discerning Stylist, a fashion and beauty content creator. “Technically I’m not a stylist. I’m a freelance Communications Consultant and Brand Strategist. I’m also a style and beauty content creator. I style myself and share style tips and inspiration on social media. I haven’t styled anyone in a professional capacity yet. I do know how to sew though, and studied Garment Construction at LISOF in Johannesburg, South Africa”, she tells us. Her hobbies include binge-watching series, reading, and drinking wine.
In this interview, the Nigerian diaspora who currently lives in South Africa talks about styling, lockdown, and why content creation is one of her biggest passions.
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How do you find inspiration to create content?
It’s one of those things that just comes to me. I don’t want to jinx myself by saying this, but I am constantly buzzing with ideas. The challenge is actually keeping up with all the ideas I have for content creation. I can’t pinpoint exactly where the inspiration comes from, but I try to check in with my audience to find out what they want to see and also try to keep my content relevant to current events.
Social media is a powerful tool. Describe a positive and a negative experience with your account.
Social media is indeed a powerful tool. A negative is that it is saturated. It is very difficult to stand out. A positive would be the genuine connections you make with people online and the ease at which you can start a business online.
What’s your personal motto?
To be honest, kind and true to myself.
How do you want to help move humanity forward?
In many ways I encourage kindness. People are hurting so a little kindness and empathy goes a long way. When people feel understood and loved, they’re less likely to engage in some of the ugly, hateful behaviors we see happening around the world. I try to donate to causes helping the underprivileged when I am in a position to do so but mostly, I think people need education. Not from school but from books and other people’s experiences. I hope that by being who I am, I can in some way make a positive impact.
On style…
How would you define your style?
My personal style is guided by self-expression. But ultimately, it is classic-contemporary feminine and tasteful.
5 Winter must-haves…
Knee-high boots, scarves, a classic coat, good quality tights and a turtleneck.
Who are your favorite brands/designers?
I love Prada.
If we asked you to select three pieces from our online shop which would they be and why.
- The Black Ruched Mini Dress. You can never go wrong with a black dress and this one is both sexy and sophisticated.
- I adore this white lace romper. It’s not my typical style but it’s a showstopper.
- I love a pencil skirt. It is a classic and a must-have in a working professional woman’s wardrobe.
Who are the fashion icons that inspire you?
I don’t have a specific icon. I am generally inspired by people that I think have good style. Beth in the series, The Queen’s Gambit and Amanda Woods in the movie The Holiday are two ladies whose style I admire. And then add the jewellery pieces worn by Nicole Kidman in her role as Grace Fraser in The Undoing. I wouldn’t say I dress like them but in my ideal world, I would.
Describe your beauty routine.
I love skincare but I’m lazy. I have several skincare products and a handful of beauty gadgets but my daily skincare routine is simple and consists of a 5 to a max of 6-step process. I cleanse, tone, use a serum, maybe an eye cream, then a moisturizer and then sunscreen, and once a week or so I exfoliate. (That sounds a lot now that I think about it).
Styling tips you wish you knew for your whole life.
- Black isn’t the only slimming color. Shades of blue, purple, and grey are also slimming.
- Well, I don’t know if this one is a tip but I wish I had known that I don’t have to wear matching colors to look put together.
- It’s best to figure out your personal style before you shop for clothes.
- You can wrap your jeans/pants around your neck to see if they’ll fit instead of trying them on.
On lockdown…
What have you been doing with your time during the lockdown?
I’ve been busy since the beginning of lockdown attending online classes, I just finished a post grad in Strategic Brand Communication. I also took a couple of courses on making money as an influencer. I’ve also been busy creating content and actively seeking clients for my freelance work.
What has lockdown taught you in terms of personal and professional life?
Mostly to do what you can when you can. There is no such thing as a perfect moment. Seize the moment.
What will you do after the pandemic is over?
Nothing I’m not already doing, except not wear a mask in public.
Welcome to Zaftyg!
About Zaftyg, it is a community space for the forward thinking woman! We are a progressive lifestyle brand and online magazine focused on delivering high quality products and starting meaningful conversations. No matter how you identify, we are here to help you look your best, and live your best life!
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