Asia Irving Speaks On Sustainability in Fashion, Misconceptions as a Wardrobe Stylist and more
Meet Asia Irving. Known for dressing some of your faves in noteworthy styles you’ve seen from red carpets, to NBA tunnel walk-throughs. The NYC-based, men’s wardrobe stylist, shares the start of her career, misconceptions as a stylist, sustainability in fashion and more.
1. In fashion it’s known that in order to get to the top, you’ve got to work your way up. Can you tell us where you started in your journey and what your destination is within the industry?
My journey into the industry was non-conventional, but it was where I wanted to be. I started as an intern for a women’s fashion boutique with no connections to the industry after graduating from Temple University. I then started taking courses at FIT. While at FIT, I was asked to by my brother, Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets, to be his stylist. It was on-the-go of how to be a working wardrobe stylist but I naturally have a love for curating wardrobes. I was blessed to meet some incredible mentors, friends, and clients that gave me a chance and helped me grow along the way. For my future, I would love to design and collaborate with brands – it just has to mean something and have a purpose.
2. As a men’s wardrobe stylist, what are the essential pieces you feel every man should have in his wardrobe? Also what’s the biggest change you’ve noticed in men’s taste over the years?
Every man should have: good coat and jacket, a tailored black suit, dark pair of jeans, white t-shirt, cozy sweat suit, shoes, and a pair of sneakers. I believe you can always build around your essentials. As far as men’s taste over the years, I believe men have taken more interest in their wardrobe as far as creativity and tailoring again.
3. Can you give us a new designer/brand you categorize as the “one to watch” in 2020?
Even though they are not new brands, I’m watching how to see how these brand gain even more success: Pyer Moss and Bode New York. I love being able to watch brands evolve and gain the attention they deserve.
4. What are your thoughts about the infamous Instagram account @diet_prada?
@diet_prada is raw and entertaining. I love how it calls out how big brands take from smaller brands and it holds them accountable. You can’t help but love @diet_prada unless you’re on the other side of it.
5. Trending this year in fashion is sustainability, and news broke that acclaimed designer, Phoebe Philo is back and planning a new collection with an “eco angle”, what are your thoughts on sustainable fashion? Do you think it’ll flop or is it a great marketing strategy toward saving the planet?
Sustainable fashion is very important. I believe it’s something that we all as humans should pay attention to. I love that sustainability is becoming more of a conversation because there has been so much waste and damage created that is harmful to our environment and future. I love seeing and learning how designers and brands are creating magic from sustainable materials and recycled clothing. I love to hear their passion for it which makes it an interesting topic to learn more about.
6. What has been the most memorable moment of your career thus far?
My most memorable moment of my career thus far was getting my brother dressed for the 2016 ESPY’s Awards. I remember how much work and effort went to the very last detail of the whole look up until the last hour. I was extremely proud of that moment and it was even cooler that I could work and create with my brother.
7. What is the biggest misconception people not working in your field have about your job? And what are some of the challenges you face as a stylist?
Styling is a lot more work than it looks like. I think that’s the biggest misconception. There have been a lot of challenging days and moments during work, but those have become my favorite moments because each one has taught me something differently. You have to be on readily available as a stylist and always have a back-up option or idea. In my own personal experience of working with athletes, it’s been challenging to find jeans and pants for some of my taller clients.
8. If you could choose a celeb’s closet to shop in, who would it be and why?
I would live and die in Rihanna’s closet. She’s bad ass and unapologetic yet so graceful. She’s everything and more so I know her wardrobe would reflect just that. I know she has clothes for any type of occasion and mood.
9. When it’s all said and done, how are you leaving your mark on the world?
I want to leave knowing I inspired somebody else to step out and create their own reality and legacy. I am leaving my mark through helping others and living/creating in purpose.