Connect
To Top

Claire Saldaña of South Congress on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Claire Saldaña and have shared our conversation below.

Claire, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I try and stay busy: Running production on a photoshoot, getting copy done for a local boutique, talking to models about updating their comp cards, checking out spaces to prep for the next Austin Fashion Week, and collaborating with designers to ensure they have the best models for their designs.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a local stylist based in Austin with a passion for showcasing the city’s unique fashion scene. Through my partnership with Airbnb, I curate shopping experiences along South Congress, guiding guests to discover local designers and boutiques. I also help run production on photoshoots and regularly appear on Austin’s lifestyle show Studio 512, where I feature local fashion finds each month. Right now, my biggest project is preparing for the Fall Showcase of Austin Fashion Week — an event that truly celebrates the creativity and style of our city.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
That I had to succeed in everything I touched. Now I know, I can’t be everything…even though sometimes I still try. Now I know that failure is part of everything and isn’t bad. It’s just an insight into learning more.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You’re not crazy — even if everyone says art school will lead nowhere and you should stick to a local college. Trust yourself. One day, that leap will become the first step in a lifelong love affair with fashion and art.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Them, my family, and my pets. For me it’s community over everything.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
100% born to do. Old friends will always remind me that even as a child, I would say this is what I would be doing.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
@alliexjesse
@mcgcreative_

Suggest a Story: VoyageAustin is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories