We recently connected with Mardae Rylander and have shared our conversation below.

Mardae, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

I started styling professionally in 2019. My client was referred to me by a friend. He was a photographer and was doing a photo shoot for a career portfolio. He stated his stylist cancelled last minute and had been calling around for others and they were charging $1,000 minimum. At the time, I didn’t know anything about the price market and only charged him $100. I had just had shirts made with my logo, so I was excited to actually be able to show up in uniform. I wanted to create an experience for all. I asked for the gentleman clothes size because my grandfather, who had recently passed away, had tons of dress clothes. I went to the storage and it only went up from there! I found blazers, scarves, hats, cuff links and etc. I was excited! I remember going to the store and buying a portable steamer, scissors, tape, and breath mints; anything that I could anticipate my client needing. Looking back now, it was the “deal” that jump started my claim to fame. Day of the shoot, everything went as I imagined. When I saw the photos, I knew then it was my passion. The client looked great, the photographer requested that we work together again because of my professionalism, and I just went “harder from there.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve always been into fashion because my mom kept me dressed in name brand clothes. People would always ask me to go shopping with them. They wanted my feedback on clothes and how they looked in them. Of course, that was at a time when wardrobe stylist were only for celebrities. Therefore, it was just my hobby. Four years ago I turned my hobby into my business, Styled by DAE.

I specialize in luxury men’s fashion. I offer virtual styling, personal shopping and personal styling. I believe I’m known for giving a one of one look. I’m proud that in an industry so saturated, I’ve made my own lane and clientele has consistently grown.

What sets me apart from other stylists is my ability to develop the individual’s style.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I spent a weekend with a friend and had to be on set for a video shoot with a music artist. I remember getting dressed and bringing a change of clothes. We arrived on set, this was their first time seeing me in action. Video shoot was a success! I go to change clothes and they proceeded to tell me they felt I had just took off my “uniform”. I explained then, styling is 90% visual. My clients have to see me in their vision. I have to embody the look! When you want to be rich, you ask rich people “how”. When you want to be trendsetter, you book with me!

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

The importance/impact of social media. Be aware of your content, be consistent and stay true to your brand.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/styledbydae1?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ITSDAEDAE