

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Perez.
Natalie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Natalie Perez and I’m so glad you’re here! I just graduated from UT Austin, but allow me to start from the beginning. I was born in San Diego while my dad was serving in the Navy, then spent a few years in Michigan before we finally landed in the Rio Grande Valley — which has been home since I was 7. Growing up along the South Texas border in a deep rooted large Mexican family, surrounded by faith, loud cousins, and lots of homemade food, has shaped me into who I am. The Valley taught me the value of community, tradition, and how to hold my own in a family group chat.
My dad built his Gastroenterology practice from the ground up, and watching him pour his heart into his work while giving back to our community taught me what real dedication looks like. On the flip side, my mom’s eye for interior design sparked my creative side — so I guess you could say I got both grit and glam in my DNA.
I moved to Austin for college, and it quickly became the place where I discovered who I am — not just in life, but in style. I graduated from UT Austin with a degree in Communication and Leadership, and it’s been the foundation for everything I do now, especially creatively and spiritually. I am easygoing and love making new friends along the way.
These days, I’m working in wardrobe styling, helping people clean out their closets, style what they already own, curate personalized look books, and shop with intention. My goal is to help people feel like the most confident version of themselves — not just trendy, but truly aligned with their own unique vibe. There’s nothing like watching someone light up when they feel amazing in how they look and what they’re wearing; it really does make a difference.
But more than anything, the biggest shift in my life came from giving it to God. My faith has changed everything — how I view myself, how I treat others, and how I navigate life. Constantly talking to Him, leaning on His word, and surrendering what I can’t control has made me stronger, more grounded, and more empathetic. I try to reflect the love, grace, and mercy He gives me into the way I show up for others.
My story’s still unfolding, but it’s rooted in faith, fashion, and helping people shine — inside and out.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not! But whose is? One of the biggest and most transformative parts of my story is my sobriety journey. I’m proud to say I just celebrated one year sober this past week, but getting here took a lot of healing, grace, and uncomfortable growth.
In my teens and early twenties, I struggled with substance abuse — I wasn’t someone who could casually have a drink and go home. It was always “what’s next?” That all-or-nothing mindset led me down a path that hurt me and the people I love. Letting go of that lifestyle meant confronting guilt, shame, and being honest about things I had hidden for a long time.
One of the hardest parts was realizing how many friendships were built on shared habits instead of real connection. When I stopped going out, the invites stopped too. But honestly, that cleared space for deeper relationships and more wholesome activities, especially with people who support my peace and walk with God. My relationship with the Lord is what saved me. He gives me strength when I feel weak, clarity when my mind feels chaotic, and love that allows me to rebuild my life from the ground up.
Physically, emotionally, and spiritually, everything is different now. My anxiety decreased, my bloating went away, my energy skyrocketed, and most importantly, I began to see myself through God’s eyes, not my past mistakes. I’ve learned to show up for others and myself with more compassion and real presence—without needing anything artificial to feel alive.
It hasn’t always been easy, but every hard day has been worth it. Sobriety didn’t take anything away from me — it gave me self-respect, peace, purpose, and the freedom to truly know who I am.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Fashion has always been more than playing dress up to me — it’s storytelling and self-expression. It’s how we present who we are to the world without saying a word. Right now, I’m working in wardrobe styling, and it’s honestly my dream job. I help clients clean out their closets, style what they already own, curate personalized lookbooks, and shop intentionally to elevate their wardrobes. It’s not just about following trends — it’s about helping people feel like the best, most confident version of themselves in their everyday life.
I bring a mix of authenticity and comfort to the process. A lot of people feel overwhelmed by fashion or disconnected from their style. I create space for them to reconnect with it—whether they’re going through a big life change, stepping into a new season, or just want to feel good again in their clothes. I really believe that when you feel confident in what you wear, you show up differently—bolder, brighter, and more yourself.
What sets me apart is how personal I make the experience. I’m not just curating outfits — I’m listening. I take time to understand someone’s lifestyle, goals, personality, and even insecurities. I specialize in making people feel seen and celebrated — and doing it in a way that’s approachable, not intimidating. I also use my creativity and my background in communication to tell a cohesive story through style, one that aligns with each client’s unique energy.
What also makes my work feel different is that it’s rooted in faith. I pray over my business and the people I work with. I want everything I create and offer to reflect God’s light—beauty, joy, and purpose—and help others see that within themselves, too.
Lastly, I’m most proud of the trust people place in me. There’s something special about watching someone light up when they look in the mirror and love what they see. It’s a joy and an honor to be part of that transformation — and I never take it for granted. Reach out to me on ig for a personalized style session! @natalierose2202
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I like least about Austin:
The traffic. Absolutely the traffic. You can blink and somehow be stuck on I-35 for 45 minutes. Also, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss the slower pace and strong sense of community from back home in the Valley. Austin is amazing, but sometimes it can feel a little too fast and spread out.
What I like best about Austin:
The creative energy! There’s just something about Austin that makes you feel like anything is possible. From the music and fashion scenes to the coffee shops full of people building their dreams — it’s a place that really encourages self-expression. People are so active here, it’s inspiring! I also love how easy it is to meet people who are passionate, driven, and open-minded. There is so much to do and a community for everyone. Oh, and the tacos. Always the tacos.
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