Retreading The Route To Style Inspiration: Alexis Badiyi Shares The Story Of Her Artistic Path

What’s a wardrobe piece you will treasure forever?

My grandmother's Pierre Cardin Vintage 1968 Haute Couture Metal Bones dress.

Where do you seek your style inspiration?

Film, archival runway, travel, my community.

Can you tell us a little bit about what drew you to this creative career, and the path that led you where you are today?

I like to say it's in my blood. Generations of immigrants pursuing their passions. My family brought importance to developing one’s eye and perspective. Once that's developed, you can express it in many mediums. I was very inspired by them and learned a lot from a young age. During college I worked in trend forecasting, then I moved to New York and I worked in textiles and print design. However, throughout all of this, I would find myself gravitating towards styling and creating imagery in my free time. I then took the leap and began freelancing full time as a stylist, and from there allowed my eye to blur labels and express myself in many mediums.

Is there a particular project that stands out as a turning point in your career?

The turning point for me would be the moment when I finally took the leap into freelance. I was working in a corporate job at the time, and it took some ego swallowing to realize that the environment was not for me.I had been styling and creating imagery in my free time in addition to my full time job. One day someone reached out to me about a styling gig. I was so excited but there was one problem, it was a 2 week long job which would greatly conflict with my current position. I remember sitting at my desk and hearing this small voice inside say “ what if we just did it? What if this is the moment?”. After talking it through with my closest circle and reflecting on how much I had prepared for this moment, I took the leap and never looked back. It was a small but pivotal moment I will always remember.

What does “timeless style” look like or mean to you?

I think it's about exploring your own personal style and finding what resonates deeply with you that you can dance with through the decades. Even if colors, silhouettes or accessories change, there's still a through line to you. Investing in well fitting classic garments helps too.

As a seasoned stylist, can you share some advice for curating a simplistic and enduring wardrobe?

Invest in timeless, well fitting, classic pieces that can be worn again and again each season.

Do you believe that the future of fashion will be eco-conscious, and how important is responsible styling to you?

Styling in an eco-conscious way can be challenging sometimes within client & timeline limitations but it is important to me. I hope we can consume and produce more mindfully and at a slower pace in the future.

What does it mean to be a modern woman?

To have the choice and ability to pursue your dreams, visions and desires.

I can see acts of self-care are never far from your daily rituals, what helps you to feel grounded?

When I have the time, I enjoy getting massages and acupuncture. However even if I am short on time I will always practice meditation, move my body and try to stay hydrated. Honestly the list goes on, after living in New York for 12 years I feel like I have a soothing recommendation for most ailments. I'm usually the friend people message for tips and tricks.

Name a few places you source inspiration from NYC.

I love going uptown to some of my favorite museums, having lunch and people watching. I also love going to the ballet or symphony at Lincoln Center. Lincoln Center has an archive in the back as well that you are able to watch old performances and view costumes. I also love vintage shopping and viewing archival pieces, Ending Soon has a great Archive. I like to remind myself that in New York we have access to so much art, theater, dance, films, shopping and people watching. The public library has great archive resources as well.

You’re our latest muse, but who is yours?

My grandmother.