Christina Brown is one-third of the stylish clique that makes up Style Influencers Group. Additionally, she runs a fashion and lifestyle blog, LoveBrownSugar, that showcases the hottest clothes and beauty products, while sprinkling in real-life topics.
Brown, Jessica Andrews and Lexi Felder have turned SIG into the leading network for connecting “dynamic brands with high quality content creators,” catering to multicultural fashion and beauty enthusiasts. SIG has partnered with several notable companies such as Shea Moisture, Carol’s Daughter and Ford.
With a successful business and a booming blog, it seems as though there’s no stopping Brown on her rise to the top. But she managed to slow down long enough to speak to rolling out about why she became involved with SIG, what she loves about Tracee Ellis Ross, and more.
What is your role in SIG?
I’m the director of partnerships and strategy.
Why is SIG an important and necessary platform?
It’s important because people of color have billions of dollars in spending power and many influencers of color are affecting these spending habits but, unfortunately, not reaping the benefits of their hard work. Representation and diversity is important in every industry.
What inspired you to create LoveBrownSugar?
Part of it was my frustration with not seeing women of color like myself represented in the media — beautiful, powerful, strong, confident and so many other things. Diversity has always lagged in the fashion and beauty industries, and I wanted to contribute to changing that by creating my own platform that would celebrate and empower us.
Why should potential readers visit LoveBrownSugar?
Because LBS is a safe space, it’s an empowering space and it’s a place to discover and learn. Everything we share on LoveBrownSugar — whether it’s a product review, a tutorial or an opinion piece — is meant to inspire and empower through style and beauty. So, more than anything else, you should leave the site feeling better than you came!
What is the most important characteristic of a successful leader in digital media?
Someone who is not afraid to speak their mind. What makes someone an influencer is that they offer a unique perspective and a level of honesty that’s believable and real. Myself and my business partners could all review the exact same product, but it’s our perspective and life experiences that make it intriguing for one person to read all three reviews, even though they’re of the same product. More than that, our personal experiences make it more “real” for our readers. That’s what denotes influence in the digital space.
Who is your style idol and why?
Easy — Tracee Ellis Ross! She is just so effortless, her hair is perfection and she gives me 70s vibes, and the 70s is definitely my era. I’m all about psychedelic prints and big hair. Solange comes in at a close second.
What is the most important style tip for this Fall?
To me, the most important style tip for every season is to wear what makes you feel good! There are so many “rules.” I think everyone should be free to explore trends that make them feel confident and that flatter their body type.
What is your favorite quote and how has it been significant to you throughout your life?
“To whom much is given, much is required.” This has been a defining quote for my life. I have been so blessed, and God has really been good to me. But I have also had to work very hard. I really believe you get what you give, and that concept motivates me to keep pushing.
How has education played a role in your success?
I really have to credit my education with being one of the most important factors in my success. My education opened so many doors for me. I’ve been a part of diversity/inclus
For more on the Style Influencers Group, visit www.styleinfluencersgroup.com. Check out Christina Brown’s blog, LoveBrownSugar.com.