L.A.-based celebrity stylist Ade Samuel got her break assisting stylist James Worthington Demolet during her Teen Vogue internship — an NYC hustler’s dream come true. Since moving to the west coast, the 28-year-old stylist and shoe designer counts Big Sean, Kelly Rowland, and of course Jhene Aiko amongst her clientele. She’s the sartorial mastermind behind AIko’s sexy ’70s looks and even styled Essence’s revolutionary #BlackGirlMagic February 2016 covers.
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Catch up with Samuel’s dos and don’ts in this week’s Stylist Spotlight — Billboard’s column exploring the creative minds working with music’s most stylish acts — below.
Describe Jhene’s style in 3 words.
Free-spirited, sexy and effortless.
Who are your go-to designers when picking for Jhene?
I love pulling from BreeLayne, Moschino, Dries van Noten and DKNY.
Jhene’s best style moment of 2016?
This is hard for me. 2016 was when I began working with Jhene and playing with her style to create iconic moments. A lot of her looks are so unique, yet still remain fashion-forward and sexy. However, if I had to choose, my top 3 they would be:
1. Her vintage COOGI sweater look during her High Road Tour with Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa — I loved the very Harajuku feel it had with the high creeper YRU sneakers.
2. The satin, 3-piece option worn to Kendall Jenner’s birthday party with Big Sean. The colors against Jhene’s skin were so beautiful; that look went viral immediately and I was so happy to be a part of that.
3. Her Moschino 2-piece worn during Art Basel. I loved how funky and ’70s-inspired the fabric was that Jeremy Scott used. What was more amazing was the effortless touch from Jhene when it was worn opened with a bralette of a contrasting color.
Piece every girl should have in her closet?
I say any statement piece that’s black is very essential! Sounds funny, but it’s the easiest lifesaver for last minute events — whether it’s an LBD (little black dress), black trousers that fit perfectly to hug your waist, or an oversized blazer that can be layered with any look. A black piece fits perfectly with almost any look and is a great statement piece to collect.
Piece every girl should throw away now?
Sorry, but I have to: leggings! As much as I love to wear leggings to work out or to lounge around, I think the trend of women wearing leggings is a bit boring and doesn’t allow for girls to play with their bodies and have fun with clothing.
What’s your guilty pleasure style-wise?
I would say it’s definitely a cropped top or bralette. I really love how it defines the body when you see a woman in a cropped top or even bralette with layers– there’s something effortless but chic and sexy about it. I really believe it makes women feel confident to be able to give a little peek-a-boo effect when wearing a cropped top under something a bit more oversized.
Who’s one up and coming designer you’ve got your eye on?
My collection, Ade Samuel Shoes. For ready-to-wear, I really love what BreeLayne is doing with women’s clothing. Her eye for sex appeal through fabrics is amazing. I love the way her clothes feel on the body. Definitely someone I continue to keep my eye on.
What is your must have piece for winter?
‘Tis the season of the PUFFERS! I love a good puffer jacket, that would be my winter jacket “must have.” I love the idea that they are so stylish and very warm, and brands like Topshop, Stella McCartney and Moncler have done amazing ones this season.
One piece you will be buying yourself for the holidays?
I love bags! It’s my addiction. I’ve been eyeing new GUCCI bag options for a while, so I look forward to treating myself to one this holiday.