FACES of Memphis: Star Hawks
As the 2nd Annual Memphis Fashion Week kicks off, we meet the MFW board member, Head Stylist and Emerging Designer, Star Hawks.
The stars sure seem to be aligning for this bright young local styling and design talent and today’s Face of Memphis. As the 2nd Annual Memphis Fashion Week kicks off, we meet the MFW board member, Head Stylist and Emerging Designer, Star Hawks. Yes, that’s her real name and yes, that’s her real hair- -so cool.
Star’s original designs will be featured alongside competing emerging designers during Friday night’s event at the Cadre Building. We photographed her at the Memphis College of Art, where she was once a student and where Saturday’s MFW event will be held.
We love a hometown girl with confidence, style and a blissful awareness of her cosmic calling, and we know you’ll enjoy meeting her, too!
What did you do before you made being a stylist your day job, and when did you first know that you could turn your passion for fashion (both styling and design) into a career?
My husband and I have been leading a church, so I have been a full-time pastor, and I’ve traveled a lot and mentored people. My two passions are people and fashion. I have always known that I would be in the fashion industry. I just had to wait for the right timing! When we moved back from NYC in November 2010, Chad Mellon from CMP Studios contacted me about being their fashion stylist. That was my first official fashion job. And then when I spoke with Abby Phillips, director of Memphis Fashion Weekend, about the Emerging Memphis Design Project, I knew this was my open door to start designing. I had to walk through it!
What are some of the coolest fashion shoots you have worked on and why?
I had the honor of being the head stylist for Boho Magazine’s fashion show for the Eforea Spa at the Hilton event. Seal was the opening act for the event. So many celebrities and famous models-very cool! As far as shoots, working with Chad and Jenn Mellon of CMP Studios really helped develop me as a stylist. We would have so much fun brainstorming about each shoot… I can’t think of a favorite shoot we did because we would seriously laugh the whole time we worked!
What are some exciting new elements that we can look forward to at the events this year?
Without saying too much, when it comes to the designs, you are going to see a range, from the girl-next-door to edgy architectural.
What inspires you?
Everything. I would have to say people’s personalities. I absolutely love how we are all so different. Often when I design, I create a character and make up a story about them: where are they going, what’s their attitude, what mood are they in? I birth a whole creation from there! I am also inspired by music, mood and life experiences.
What are your hobbies, guilty pleasures and/or special indulgences?
I love throwing parties! I love gathering people together to have fun. I love roller skating, dancing, trying new restaurants and going on dates with my husband.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“We are not to compare ourselves to others.” My Grandma told me that. This advice has kept my head on straight, especially in such a competitive industry.
What is your favorite thing about living and working in Memphis?
I love Memphis! I feel like I’m loving it more every day. My whole family lives here, and I have so many amazing friends here! I heard someone say once that Memphis is like a big small city; it’s so true. There’s so much happening here and at the same time; everywhere you go you know someone. When I think about it, it warms my heart. Everyone knows everyone!
Where do you take your out of town friends/family when they come to visit you in Memphis?
Can I just say that no one has ever been disappointed when I’ve taken them to Brother Junipers?! Love their breakfast (usually at noon). I also love to take my friends to Flashback. I love vintage clothing, and something about it captures this artistic Memphis vibe. I think I could describe Memphis as “vintage” with our Elvis, Johnny Cash, Martin Luther King Jr. roots!
Many people don’t think of Memphis when they think of most fashionable cities. What do you say?
I say there is a revival happening here all over the board! Look a little closer. From the trendy tattooed Betty Pages and James Deans at the tattoo shops, to the Crazy/Beautiful girls who have the “too cool for school” baggy pants with stilettos and so much more–there is a progressive fashion pulse happening in Memphis. It’s only going to increase!
Your favorite local places to shop?
I love Flashback for awesome vintage finds and Crazy/Beautiful.
What one word best describes you?
What are some key spring must-haves that every woman needs?
Bright lipsticks, something coral and a new fragrance.
What about any spring hair or make-up trends?
Lip color is so huge. I feel like a lot of girls have been afraid of lipstick. I’m all about a statement lip! Red lipstick is a must this season.
Besides Fashion Week, what Memphis event are you most excited about this spring?
Music Fest! Did you see the line up? I’m freaking out about Daryl Hall & John Oates, Bassnectar and Smashing Pumpkins! OMG!
What are three things you can’t live without (excluding friends, family and God)?
I have four: L’oreal liquid eyeliner, my iPhone, lipstick (I have 20 tubes in my purse, not kidding) and gum! Hot breath is not an option.
Thank you, Star, and best of luck with the Emerging Designers contest during Friday’s Fashion show! We know we will be seeing lots more from this talented young woman and we hope to see you all at the fashion shows this weekend, too! For more information about Memphis Fashion Weekend and to purchase tickets, visit their website: www.memphisfashionweekend.com.
As always a big thanks to Christen Jones Photography for these beautiful images.
