A Fashion Stylist, Influencer, Image Consultant
& Art Director
@vnikali
How did your background in fine arts and multimedia influence your journey as a stylist in Hong Kong?
My background in fine arts has allowed me to style in new perspectives and on a deeper level. To see fashion beyond visually and seek emotions in its concept and feelings, then to create styles from within. In my styling process, I try to sculpt composition and flow to construct a timeless style. Having a fine arts background and combining it with the multimedia skills I later acquired allow me to explore more possibilities.
How did you build the confidence to express your individuality through fashion and style?
At the beginning, explore freely, create experience and gain knowledge from them. I can then decide what is suitable for my style and body shape, in order to pick pieces that make me feel empowered. I was so fascinated by the evolution of silhouettes from the 18th century to late 1990s. At an early age, during my spare time, I would sit at a cafe to watch people, as a training to my mind and eyes to identify who people are wearing, what are the pieces and what kind of silhouettes they create. Gradually my mind became a library with a wide range of styles. Working with talented people is also a key factor in gaining confidence, as I love to observe others to gain knowledge.
As a female stylist, how do you navigate and challenge societal beauty standards in your work?
The world is enjoying a more diverse beauty standard now, which I try to take advantage of by sharing more positive and impactful styling advice. I think it helps others accept who they are inside out and embrace their unique beauty. It’s not about how you look, but how you feel about yourself. I always emphasise the importance of styling your mind before styling your look.
How do you use your creative expertise to encourage your clients to express themselves?
Through close communication, my clients will start to build trust and be assured that my expertise can help them find a solution. I believe it is important for clients to express their personalities and values through fashion. Once I learn their uniqueness, it’ll be easier for me to propose ideas, inspirations and styling advice tailored for them. Many people actually have no clue on what style flatters them, so it is my job to point out and steer them to the right direction and invest in their wardrobe.
What challenges have you faced as a stylist in the fashion industry, and how have you overcome them?
When I started my career, it was difficult to stay true to my vision and not be distracted by others. There is a thin line between giving advice and taking over. As I was still very green, I doubted myself and the lack of confidence meant I was swayed easily by others. At the end of the shoot, the outcome was nothing I envisioned and I was not proud of it. After that, I asked myself how I could do better. Why was I easily persuaded, was it because I did not prepare enough? From that day onwards, I developed the habit to pull as much reference as possible, and prepare a Plan B if Plan A doesn’t work out. I would provide supporting visuals to the team to let them know how serious I take the job. That’s how people start to respect my work and how I train myself to stay firm.
As a working mom, how do you balance work and personal life?
Be selective! It’s easy to say but hard to focus on one thing instead of trying to do as much as possible. In reality, as a working mom, I need to allocate my time carefully and plan ahead to enjoy both work and personal life. I am blessed and thankful to have a husband that supports my career, giving me time for self care to recharge so I don’t feel burnt out or having to sacrifice everything for my family. Although I am a mother now, I am still Veronica Li. I just need to prioritise, manage time well and rest enough to enjoy the lifestyle of a working mom. My family always gives me strength to be a better person every day.
Could you share a significant moment in your career and how it influenced your journey as a stylist?
A significant moment in my career was the moment I decided to start blogging years ago, to share styling tips and behind-the-scenes of a stylist assistant. I simply wanted an online platform to showcase my portfolio, but who knew social media would grow so quickly to create many many opportunities! From there I expanded my career as a Fashion Stylist / Art Director / Influencer to work closely with brands on content creation, staff training, celeb and VIP styling, editorials, marketing campaigns, guest hosting on TV shows and appearing at global events. This has broadened my career path with multiple dimensions. It has also propelled me to continuously learning and improving my skills.
What advice would you give to women who are hesitant to express their unique style?
When you hesitate, it means you fear the unknown. Let go of the fear, because the truth is you cannot please everyone in the world. Let yourself take charge of your own style, understand how your outfits express your individuality and don’t be afraid to tell stories and share with others. This is also something I want to work on, #STYLEISAMINDSET by Veronica.
