Meet Akilah Whitaker

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Akilah Whitaker. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Akilah, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

Confidence and self-esteem are things I actively work on every day. Whenever I start to doubt myself or have negative thoughts, I acknowledge how I’m feeling in the moment but don’t let it consume me. Instead, I combat it with something positive—whether that’s speaking affirmations out loud in the mirror, dressing up just because, or even buying myself flowers. I also believe in the power of music—good music has a way of healing my soul and instantly lifting my mood. It’s all about pouring into myself so I can show up as my best self.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

My name is Akilah Yaas, and I’m a fashion stylist, fashion correspondent, and media personality with a certification in fashion styling from the School of Style and a social media certification. My career has allowed me to merge my passions for styling, media, and storytelling—whether I’m curating looks for clients, covering red carpet events, or highlighting fashion insiders on my YouTube channel. My goal is always the same: to make fashion feel personal, empowering, and accessible.

I’ve had the opportunity to style C-level executives, influencers, and entrepreneurs for high-profile events and creative projects, as well as cover fashion weeks, brand launches, and industry events as a correspondent. An advocate for women’s empowerment and timeless style, I celebrate classic, glamorous, and luxury fashion across my platforms, offering a fresh perspective on fashion media and commentary.

What excites me most about my work is the power of transformation—helping people step into their confidence through clothing. Recently, I launched a new styling service—closet visits—where I work with clients to create fresh new looks using pieces they already own. It’s all about maximizing their wardrobe in ways they may not have thought of, helping them rediscover their personal style without always having to buy something new.

I also recently relaunched my fashion media coverage (Fashion Elite TV) giving a platform to emerging and established creatives in the industry. Right now, I’m expanding my styling services to include both virtual and in-person offerings, allowing me to work with clients nationwide. I’m also developing content that spotlights industry tastemakers, bringing fresh perspectives to the fashion scene.

With experience both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, I am available for styling, media hosting, brand collaborations, and fashion commentary. My goal is to continue bridging the gap between personal style and media, making fashion storytelling more engaging and authentic.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, three key qualities have been instrumental in my growth: building relationships, staying consistent, and carving out my niche.

First, relationships are everything in this industry. It’s not just about meeting people—it’s about following up, nurturing those connections, and creating your own ‘little black book’ of contacts, from models and designers to brands and photographers. Those relationships can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Second, finding your niche is crucial. The fashion and media space is vast, so figuring out what makes you unique—whether it’s your styling approach, storytelling, or aesthetic—will help you stand out.

Lastly, consistency and relevance go hand in hand. Staying visible, showing up even when it feels like no one is watching, and keeping up with industry trends will help solidify your place in the field.

For those just starting out, I’d say: network with intention, document every valuable connection, and refine your craft until your niche is undeniable. Stay consistent, stay relevant, and keep putting yourself out there!

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Absolutely! I’m always looking to partner with creatives, especially as I revamp my editorial portfolio. Right now, I’m looking to work with models, makeup artists, hair stylists, nail techs, photographers, videographers, and fashion designers who are passionate about bringing bold, high-fashion concepts to life. Whether you’re an established pro or an emerging talent, I’d love to connect and create something amazing together.

If you’re interested in collaborating, feel free to reach out to me via Instagram @theakilahyaas or email me at [email protected].

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.akilahyaas.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theakilahyaas
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akilah-y-whitaker/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FashionEliteTV

Image Credits

Photographers:
Angela Webb
Duprée
Mo Sadjadpour
Victoria Nguyen
Chris Jones
Eric Kamusau
Designers:
Duhbuhyloo
DMK Collective