CAPE TOWN Stylist & Clothing Designer: Louise Park-Ross
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Portrait by Nick Aldridge
TP: Hi Louise, thanks for joining us today! Tell me, how would you describe your role to someone outside the industry?
LPR: Wardrobe Stylist and Clothing Designer
TP: What do your parents think you do?
LPR: I think they have a pretty accurate idea of what I do. I think they can't really keep up with what is happening and when, but they're incredibly supportive and understand the ups and downs of freelance life.
TP: That's so lovely to hear! How did you get your start in styling?
LPR: I was born in Durban but moved to Cape Town when I was 7. I always knew I wanted to be a clothing designer. I've always been obsessed with textiles and clothes. My mum used to cut me squares of fabric that I would cuddle like a teddy bear and rub on my face! I studied clothing design at Cape Tech and wardrobe styling was a natural progression.
TP: Tell me about your first shoot?
LPR: Holy shit, I honestly can't even remember! They all blur into one after a while
TP: What have you learned from this industry?
LPR: What being in this world has taught me. is that the only way to be happy and successful is to have a "can do" attitude. Anything is possible. It's actually a fab philosophy for life in general!
TP: What do you think makes your work unique or stand out from others?
LPR: I like breaking the rules. All this "she's got an Autumn skin tone so can't wear blah, blah, blah colours rubbish". I put pale skin in nudes with red lips and I go dilly for a clashing print.
“the only way to be happy and successful is to have a “can do” attitude”
TP: What’s an average day like for you?
LPR: Average day? There is no such thing in my life!
TP: What do you like the most about your work?
LPR: It's always changing, every day is different. You can't really get bored!
TP: What’s the most challenging part of your work?
LPR: Getting model sizes at 10pm when you have to be on set at 6am the next day…
“I think the most rewarding thing in this industry is having return clients.”
TP: What was a memorable assignment from the past year?
LPR: I am passionate about local fashion and I love styling for my sister’s store, Mungo and Jemima and for her brand Good Clothing. It's definitely the most fun I ever have on set!
TP: Do you have any goals or dreams for your styling career?
LPR: I think the most rewarding thing in this industry is having return clients. Building relationships and friendships over time - that’s the most rewarding.
TP: Speak a little bit on the idea of "being your own boss." How do you manage that elusive work / life balance?
LPR: It's hard! That said, I'd never go back [to a day job]I see a business coach and it's the best money I spend every month. When you're working independently, it's good to feel like you have someone supporting you. The pros are: it's made me SUPER organized and I now know how to use Excel to track my earnings. The cons are: work is seasonal and Winter can be slow and tough.
TP: What is the biggest challenge of working alone or independently?
LPR: It can be lonely. So, I rent a desk in a gorgeous heritage building on Shortmarket Street with some other like-minded design friends. It's good to keep work at work and then relax at home.
TP: Have you ever considered getting representation?
LPR: Yes I have and I will
TP: How do you normally land new projects?
LPR: Word of mouth!
TP: Through which channels do you promote yourself?
LPR: I don't really, but I must start! I have so many projects on the go, so when things are quiet on one thing, I work on the other and I'm constantly juggling amongst them.
TP: When you have an assistant working for you, what do you look for in someone that you would hire?
LPR: Must have a "can do" attitude and be super energetic! They know what you need before you even know what you need.
TP: What would your advice be to an aspiring stylist?
LPR: Assist, assist, assist! It's the best way to learn. I still assist on big jobs and I keep learning!
TP: Alright, last parting words - What's the best advice you've been given?
LPR: Don't let other people’s egos get to you!
Thank you for sharing your story, Louise!
Connect with Louise on IG @louiseparkross
or via email louiseparkross@gmail.com
Interview by Annika Howe
Portrait by Nick Aldridge
Stay tuned for more Creative Industry Cape Town portraits & interviews!