StylingByChi is NOT stopping during the Pandemic

PITTSBURGH, PA—Chi Ilochi, a Pittsburgh, PA small business owner, runs StylingByChi, a styling company. As a fashion stylist and image consultant, Ilochi is tasked with making models, actors, CEOs, and more look their absolute best for events or meetings they have. She also provides free styling services to people with disabilities, making her work equal parts creative and service-based.
When asked how she got into her line of work, llochi replied, “I remember being in high school and having friends say like, ‘Hey, have you ever considered fashion styling. When I was 16, I looked at it, studied it, and I thought this is everything I’ve been doing without a title. Styling impacts my mood, my mental health, and my overall well-being. I wanted to share that with other people and be able to alter their life for the better.”
While starting her business changed her life and the lives of others for the better, the pandemic has had an impact on how small businesses are currently operating. Ilochi has had to transition to virtual styling to stay safe.
“Community styling has been challenging because you know you can’t be in person, and it just does not feel the same having a mask on,” she explained. “Fortunately, I have been virtually styling, so that has been sustaining me.”
Ilochi also runs a magazine through her styling company that highlights different models, stylists, and photographs of Black creatives. She has been putting her efforts into populating the magazine and supporting others during this time.
“Getting more editorial styling opportunities would help me right now,” she expressed. “It pays well, the workload is a bit much, but it is always a rewarding feeling.”
Despite its setbacks, the pandemic, has also been a motivator for Ilochi. “I think [the pandemic] has taught me to be way more intentional. I have learned to appreciate things for what they are, and know that you have to have a backup plan in place just in case there is another natural disaster. I think it will teach me how to prepare for anything.”
When asked for words of encouragement, Ilochi reminds small business owners to take care of themselves.
“Be kind to yourself because you’re doing the best you can. For one, running a business pre-pandemic was not easy. But running a business in the middle of enduring it? Applaud yourself for that.”