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

Taryn, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with a fun one – what’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?

People in the fashion and/or entertainment industry will often preach to find one talent, craft, or anything and master it before venturing out into different sub fields. Personally, I say “bump that”. Reason being is that I can conquer whatever it is I seek out. I’m not just a model or a stylist or a director. I am each of those things and MORE, at all times. People have told me I couldn’t excel in a certain field and I’d just say “Ok, but I’m going to”. ,because when I do excel I will feel a sense of fulfillment knowing that I never gave up on my ambitions.

Taryn, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hi readers!! My name is Taryn Dotson and I am a recent graduate of Thee Illustrious Clark Atlanta University. I was formally introduced to the fashion industry at the age of 17 after walking in my first fashion show. From then on I’ve modeled in a plethora of print shoots, runway shows, and music videos. In October of 2020, I started my own business titled LongeviT (long-jev-ih-tee). With this L.L.C., I provide wardrobe curation for occasions, productions, or lifestyle needs. As well as, concept creation from start to finish. I aid my clients in determining what their desired look is or discovering the kind of look needed for a specific aesthetic. In terms of directing, I am able to derive original concepts for my clients to use on their projects or productions. A defining quality of my work is the versatility I strive for. I make it my mission to create projects that have never been done before and can be used as inspiration for those that come after me, hence the name LongeviT. I take pride in my ability to make my clients feel valued while working together. I want anyone who will or has worked with me to say “Collaboration was key in this project, no idea went unheard and my vision was executed flawlessly”. My goal is for LonegviT to be strong and thriving well after I’m gone. It will always be bigger than me.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

This is a funny story, actually. When I first got serious about doing runway shows I joined an organization at my school. It was a student led org named “The AUC Agency”. It was my freshmen year and we were preparing for our Homecoming fashion show. It was a day before the show and I had no scenes to walk in whatsoever. I could’ve gone that day, but I had a test to take. So I just decided to not walk and support instead, but I never told the executive board. So after the show, I got a call from the organization president and I basically got kicked out for not communicating I wasn’t walking. It was a humbling experience that taught me communication. However, I was able to rejoin the next semester. Eventually, during my junior and senior I was selected as one of the Faces of the organization so it all worked out in the end.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

I’d say the best source of new clients for me is anywhere there are people. Networking is a great way of finding people who would want to book with me. It’s also a key technique in finding other creatives to do projects with. This is the stage I’m in now when trying to build my audience on social media and clientele. They may have an opportunity where I can direct or style a shoot or vice versa.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: I’m on Instagram as longevi.t. Install the app to follow my photos and videos. https://www.instagram.com/invites/contact/?i=1k751vwbm118h&utm_content=lzvhqqx

Image Credits
@nisarosie @thetrendykam @j.woods14 @brie.jpeg