After working in retail for five years, Germanee knew that her passion was fashion and styling. With dreams of working in the industry, she snagged a degree and accepted a job at Old Navy’s Headquarters in California. Now she’s combining the casual edge of west coast fashion with her prim and proper southern roots to create the best looks for her clients.
Your Name:
Germanee Gerald
Business Name:
ThePrada-G
Alma Mater:
North Carolina State University
Hometown:
Charlotte, North Carolina
Current location:
San Francisco, California
Website Link:
What services do you provide?
Styling. I also utilize my blog to inspire and educate women on how to infuse trends into their wardrobes according to their body types.
Why did you decide to start a business
I worked in Gap’s retail stores for five years. I always noticed that customers were knowledgeable of apparel trends, but they would find difficulty trying to make it work for their wardrobes or body. I decided to utilize my blog as a platform to inform and educate and do the same when I’m in sessions with my clients.
Before you owned a business, what did you do?
Outside the Prada-G styling services, I’m also a full-time Assistant Merchandiser at Old Navy’s San Francisco headquarters.
What is your favorite client story?
I was styling a client for the first time at a mall. We finally got to a good space to start trying on outfits in the fitting room and all of a sudden the power went out! We got escorted out of the store, I was so bummed because I had pulled some really good looks for her. Fortunately, we found another store that had power and the outfits actually came out better than the first store.
What is the most interesting client request you have had?
My most interesting client request was to style them virtually. It was challenging, but I took it head on it helped me understand my limitations and how I would run my business. Ultimately I prefer to style someone in person, it’s personable of course but it is also easier for me to find second options, style the products the way I want, and be able to better gage their reactions
What is the most important thing you have done to build your business?
Creating my Sip’N Style Saturday blogs would be the most important thing I can say I’ve done to help build my business so far. Not only does it challenge me by being able to understand the complexities of African American women’s bodies but it is also a platform to help teach others how they can achieve the looks I can create for the women I style for their own body’s. The Sip’N Style’s also serve as a portfolio to build clientele.
Who are some of your business idols? Tania Sarin, Blair Eddie, Daniel Hawkins, Tyrone Hunter
Tania Sarin, Blair Eddie, Daniel Hawkins and Tyrone Hunter
Do you have any mentors?
Yes, I do but not in conjunction with my field. Eddie Mansoinet, who’s a sports blogger and creator of The Sports Fan Journal has always pushed me to be the best I can, fail fast, and to stop dreaming but actively work towards the goals I have.
What do you love about southern style?
It’s feminine, effortless and poised.
What are some of your favorite southern fashion designers?
Joseph McCrae
If you could style any southern celebrity who would it be, why?
I would style Oprah Winfrey. To me, she’s such a boss but I don’t think her current stylist (if she has one) does a great job at portraying that. I would definitely love to refine her look and take it to the next level. The woman has an amazing figure, she should show it off in a way that’s suitable for her.
What is your favorite season for southern fashion?
My favorite season for southern fashion is spring. It’s the season to bring out simple and feminine dresses styling it with classic jewelry.
How would you describe your personal style?
I would describe my style as classy with a touch of edginess.
What do you love about working with your clients?
I love to help but a smile on my clients faces by making them feel more confident about themselves with what they are wearing.
What inspires you to style clients?
Although superficial, your clothes are the first impression you make to someone. Being able to help my client make the best impression and while feeling comfortable in their skin is what inspires me the most.
What are your go to southern style inspirations, such as magazines, Instagram accounts or blogs?
I utilize Instagram; magazines like Vogue, GQ, Bazaar, Style Watch. I also get a lot of inspiration from friends. My favorite websites to draw inspiration from are Refinery29 and Who What Wear.
What is your favorite thing about being southern?
I love how sophisticated and proper it is. Now that I live in California, the atmosphere is a lot more relaxed and casual. It took a lot for me to get use to.
What is your favorite southern entrees or sides?
Fish and Grits (haha), my grams use to make it for me Mondays after school when I was young.
What is your favorite item or piece of clothing to wear/use while doing business?
It honestly depends on the meeting and who my client is. It can range from a leather jacket to my favorite Nike Roshe Runs.
Comments
Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
I looooove her sense of style! It was great learning about Germanee! ❤️