Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Salifya A.. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Salifya , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I’ve discovered my purpose at the crossroads of passion and a pressing problem. I am Salifya , a plus-size personal stylist and founder of Ahead of the Curve Styling Agency. My journey began as a youth, doodling outfits for an imaginary store, “Sweet Things,” with my cousins. While others outgrew this fantasy, I clung to it, sketching stylish outfits I wished were available in my size. Frustrated by the limited options for curvy fashion, I decided to be the solution in high school by creating a trendy safe haven for plus-size girls. Thus, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising and secured a part-time position at a plus-size retailer. Most of my time as a sales associate was dedicated to challenging the mindset that plus-size women could only wear black, introducing them to the world of color. A transformative moment with a customer, let’s call her Sam, remains vivid in my memory. I asked Sam to trust me, assuring her that if none of the outfits resonated, she could leave them in the store. While Sam explored the store, I diligently stocked the dressing room with outfits to enhance her style. With each ensemble she tried, her confidence soared. The pinnacle was a white blazer paired with a neon lime green chiffon overlay camisole and black pants. Sam radiated excitement, exclaiming, “OMG! I love it; I think I’m going to wear this to my rehearsal dinner tomorrow!” While I loved this outfit for her, I believed we had a more suitable option. With trust established, I fetched the perfect dress—a navy blue number with a lace overlay and a skinny brown belt. However, when I returned with the dress, so did her apprehension. She ultimately trusted me again, and Sam left the dressing room looking spectacular, though you could tell she was nervous being out of her comfort zone. To confirm her stunning appearance, I grabbed her fiancé to ask for his seal of approval. When she walked out, his jaw dropped as he exclaimed, “BABE YOU LOOK AMAZING!” She wore the biggest smile as they shared a kiss, and I wiped my hands, knowing my work was done. As she proceeded to the register with everything from the fitting room, I realized I craved more of this feeling—to empower women who, like Sam and me, defy societal beauty standards and deserve to look and feel incredible. Though I didn’t recognize it as my calling at the time, reflecting on my favorite moments as a sales associate, they were always when I helped a customer feel confident and worthy. Disregarding my longing for greater fulfillment, I persisted in climbing the corporate ladder, only to lose my job during the pandemic, thrusting me into a journey of purpose. In September 2021, I launched my personal stylist business without an official brand name, brand strategy, or clarity on my purpose. As a recovering perfectionist, navigating beyond the unresolved details was a challenge but essential. The road to purpose remains ongoing and intertwined with faith. Last week, during Bible Study, I gained the language to articulate my purpose. Today, I realize that my mission transcends the fashion industry; it’s a universal calling to restore confidence and hope in those who society often overlooks. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of purpose, a purpose that continues to unfold with every step.
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?
I am Salifya, a dedicated plus-size personal stylist and the visionary behind Ahead of the Curve Styling Agency (ACSA), navigating the fashion world as a plus-size woman for decades. I understand how frustrations with the fashion industry, coupled with outdated beauty standards, can stifle the full expression of our authenticity. Having personally grappled with the discomfort of not feeling at home in one’s own skin, I uncovered a transformative path to restore that connection through style and clothing. My mission is to empower my clients to embark on a similar journey, fostering confidence and self-esteem in women whose beauty, much like mine, challenges societal norms.
My primary focus is on the exceptional plus-size professionals – business owners, executives, and ambitious women in Richmond, VA, and across the world. Many of these extraordinary women are brimming with ideas, solutions, and potential, yet societal expectations may leave them hesitant to step into the spotlight. My goal is to style the woman residing within each of us, ensuring the reflection in the mirror harmonizes with both who you are and who you aspire to become.
Whether someone feels they lack style or is uncertain where to begin, rest assured – I firmly believe everyone inherently knows how they want to present themselves; they merely require a bit of guidance. With ACSA, my objective is to provide clients with a wardrobe that not only feels comfortable and looks polished but also accommodates every dimension of their body and lifestyle. Whether it involves a closet detox or a complete wardrobe rejuvenation, my packages are meticulously tailored to meet their unique needs. I am committed to celebrating their individuality, embracing their visibility, and embarking on a style journey that empowers them to radiate confidence. Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made, deserving to be seen and heard just as you are.
what is next?
I’m not certain when this article will be published, but I am currently gaining much clarity from God regarding the direction to take this business. Excitedly, I am undergoing a rebranding process and preparing to launch my Styling Agency! My ultimate goal is to open a size-inclusive store, though that may take a couple of years.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three impactful qualities in my journey were entrepreneurial spirit, spiritual growth, and personal development. The intertwining of these aspects became evident as growth in one area positively influenced the others.
Investing in mentorship played a key role; accountability to mentors fueled my self-discipline and motivation. Having a mix of mentors, including those in my field and specialists in areas I needed support, proved valuable. Currently, I benefit from three mentors through programs like SCORE, SBDC, and local government agencies, along with personal stylist mentorship.
Building a community was equally crucial. Connecting with fellow stylists nationwide provided learning opportunities and valuable referrals. Supportive friends and family contributed by sharing posts, engaging with algorithms, and offering expertise in website development and other skills.
My advice is to take the plunge if you feel called to a purpose. Overcoming doubt, fear, perfectionism, and procrastination requires trust in the journey. Focus less on the how and more on doing, learning, and growing. Trust in your calling, and believe that taking intentional steps will lead to the fulfillment of your desires. I’m on this journey too, and I believe the same for you!
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
I thoroughly enjoy working with plus-size women who are poised for a transformative journey. Financially secure, mentally prepared, and willing to invest the time and energy in themselves. These women are ready to shed insecurities and confidently step into the spotlight they rightfully deserve. They long for ease, efficiency and comfort in their wardrobe choices, aspiring to have a collection of pieces that not only fit impeccably but also align with their versatile style goals. Whether it’s a polished look for a board meeting, a cute and comfortable ensemble for brunch with friends, or a sexy outfit for a date night, they are eager to show up any and everywhere as their full authentic self.
These women are committed to embodying their internal vision—the confident boss who radiates positivity at social gatherings and exudes success through her outfits. They aspire to become the person they were destined to be. This style journey is a collaborative effort, with me understanding their life goals and style preferences. Leveraging my expertise, I translate their personality and lifestyle into outfits and a wardrobe that authentically reflect their true selves.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://aheadofthecurvestyling.com
- Instagram: Salifya.a or aheadofthecurvestyling
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Salifya.A
