Bebe Jones is a fashion veteran who has interviewed a variety of industry clientele such as tennis champion Venus Williams, Raekwon of Wu–Tang Clan, Mychael Knight of “Project Runway” and a slew of other artists, fashion designers and athletes. Jones is a fashion visionary who wants to educate aspiring fashion designers and entrepreneurs. She introduced an urban style forum called StyleChat, where industry moguls in the Chicago area shared their keen knowledge of fashion and the importance of networking.
After being exposed to the latest fashions and style through her parents and siblings, Jones realized at a very young age that she wanted to go into the fashion industry. After interning at Ebony Magazine, she went to work as a Beauty and Lifestyle Editor at N’digo, Jones is proud to bring StyleChat to the African American community. In celebration of turning 34, she brings her forum to help future brand ambassadors, fashion stylists and models become knowledgeable about the industry. Check out the interview.
What was the biggest mistake you made in your fashion career?
I would say trusting people that claim to be mentors. It’s unfortunate that when women in this industry are at the peak of their careers, they really don’t know how to transition and reinvent themselves in this profession. I found a lot of times that working more heavily in this industry I remind a lot of seasoned women of themselves, and I just wished they knew how to transition more in their roles.
Whose closet would you raid?
June Ambrose! Just recently I was in New York for fashion week and bumped into June Ambrose on a whim. It was such an enlightening experience, because she is such a phenomenal person. I don’t even think I want to raid her closet; I would love to just stand in it. I would love to just observe the way she’s organized her timeless pieces. It would be perfect just to learn her story through her clothing.
What advice would you give to someone trying to break into this industry?
Be in control at all times. Learn to be consisted and definitely be grateful. No one is entitled to have anything, so just stay humble. I quit my 9 -to-5 job to pursue my dreams of becoming an entrepreneur and I am just so grateful. I haven’t looked back yet.
Where do you see StyleChat going?
I want to be able to bring StyleChat to Black universities and even go abroad with other African American families. I just really want to bring fashion awareness to our culture.
Stay tuned for additional StyleChat forums or other related events at www.Chicagomerge.com
~dana williams
