We were lucky to catch up with Anicea Franklin recently and have shared our conversation below.

Anicea, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.

I believe in being personable and professional. There has to be a balance. We are all human and deserve grace especially as hard working, motivated individuals. The modeling industry doesn’t believe life can happen or freedom of expression. Everyone’s “free” to a certain extent. You still would have to look like this, walk like that, and wear something a certain way to be received in this industry. Subtle Fashions Studios truly believes in unrestricted ways of expression. I encourage everyone to stay true to who they are, UNAPOLOGETICALLY! In fact, that has been one of the main reasons a lot of mentees have taken a development course with Subtle Fashions Studios.

Anicea, 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?

I go by Anicea and I am from the beautiful west side of Chicago. I first got into my craft junior year of high school. It was all God’s plan not mine. My high school would have annual prom fashion shows and I decided I would do it. this was until I learned I would have to actually tryout in front of folks. I didn’t feel it was that serious (because I was shy) so I decided I wasn’t going to do it anymore. The following week somehow my name still ended up on the list of final models picked and of course I attended every rehearsal. I ended up doing this fashion show and another one for a boutique. The fashion shows were two days from each other. It was chaotic back stage but I loved every bit of it! From then one I knew this was something I wanted to do genuinely. Fast forward to today, I am know sharing my knowledge and experience through my services. Subtle Fashions Studios offer services such as confidence development, choreographer, producer, creative director, model coach, and wardrobe styling. I am most proud of the feedback I continuously receive. I am making an impact and leaving my imprint in the world and that makes my heart smile. My work, my energy, my business is AUTHENTIC and genuine. I care more about the impact and longevity.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I knew about business grants, loans, and credit when I first began my journey.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Word of mouth will always be one of the best strategies. Another one is have quality results and experience to refer to or pass along.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @subtlefashionsstu
• Youtube: Subtle Fashions Studios
• Other: Anchor Podcast – Subtle Expressions