Solange Franklin

New York City based stylist Solange Franklin talks all things Fashion Month, her love of color, and her desire to see character on the runway.

You’ve styled everyone from Janelle Monae, Venus Williams to Solange Knowles. What is one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring stylists out there?

People want your perspective and it's usually easier to show than tell.

How do you prepare for Fashion Month, and what trends are you most excited to see this season?

I prepare by trying to have an open heart and mind. Being receptive and curious is the best way for me to digest all the new images and interactions during fashion month.

As for the runway: I want to see character! I want to dream! I want to lust for a silhouette and reconsider possibilities. Specifically I think we'll see more playful texture and mixed media: feathers, metal on wool, specialty prints, etc. And in the end I'm not so into trends I'm into narrative so I'll like wildly different aesthetics, trend or no, if there is a salient message.

Do you have a signature touch when it comes to styling? How do you want people to recognize your work?

I think there's always an energetic elegance to my work so I hope that intention translates to the final image.

A lot of fashion folks are afraid of color -- or hold it in contempt -- so my embracing color gives a signature tint to my work.

What motivates you when you need an extra push?

Servicing others, for sure. I like to support people's vision and be the backbone for an operation. I also remind myself that I'm the adult in the room and I'm in the room for a reason, so I better get to it.

You’ve been known to love vintage pieces! Do you have a prized possession in your wardrobe?

My Prada lips skirt is a super prize because it's wearable but worth preservation and Ms. Miuccia is just timeless irreverence. I suppose this is nouveau vintage -- 2000! Eek.

If you were a color, what color would you be and why?

Now I want to ask people around me what they think, like "The Dress" experiment! But based on my self-perception: Espresso! Grounding, and an unexpected essential. That's me.

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