We’re looking forward to introducing you to Michelle Washington. Check out our conversation below.
Michelle, 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?
No two days are the same, but they all start with music—it sets the vibe. A normal day for me is a balance between creativity and strategy. My mornings usually start with sipping something strong (coffee or matcha, depending on the mood) and catching up on fashion news and trend reports. Then I dive into client work—styling consultations, mood board creation, or fittings. Afternoons are for business—calls, partnerships, and checking in on upcoming projects. Evenings are my time to recharge, reflect, and sometimes sketch or brainstorm ideas for the next big thing.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Michelle Washington—a fashion stylist, creative strategist, and unapologetic storyteller with an eye for what’s next. As the host of Behind the SEAMS®, my local TV show, I take audiences inside the world of fashion—where creativity meets courage. I’m also a 3X award-winning podcaster and the founder of Michelle Washington®, my namesake luxury shoe line celebrated for its bold design and effortless sophistication. Through my company, Michelle E. Washington LLC, I merge style, strategy, and storytelling to help brands and individuals define their presence with power and precision. My work lives at the intersection of glamour and grit—because true style isn’t just seen, it’s felt.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a curious dreamer with a sketchbook and big ideas. I was a storyteller in motion—mixing color, texture, and rhythm to make sense of the world. I didn’t yet call it “fashion,” but I was already shaping narratives through style. I saw fashion as art, as a language, as possibility. I didn’t yet know about rules or limits—I just knew how to create. That fearless, imaginative girl is still at the heart of everything I do; she reminds me that style is freedom, not permission.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely. I’ve had moments where the setbacks were heavy enough to make me pause. But I’ve learned that when you’re walking in purpose, “almost giving up” is just a plot twist, not the ending. There were moments when the noise, the doubt, and the pressure almost drowned out my purpose. The fashion industry can be relentless, and there were times I questioned if my voice truly mattered. There was a time I almost walked away—not because I lost love for the work, but because I felt unseen in it. But the truth is, purpose doesn’t let you quit. It whispers louder than fear. Every time I came close to giving up, I remembered why I started: to create space, to tell stories, and to show that style can be both art and empowerment. That reminder always pulls me back—stronger, sharper, and more grounded in who I am.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the fashion industry tells itself is that exclusivity equals prestige. Real style has never been about shutting people out—it’s about inviting them in. Another lie is that creativity must suffer for commerce, when in truth, the most powerful brands are built where artistry and authenticity meet. The industry loves perfection, but what actually moves culture is honesty. The fashion industry loves to tell itself that only certain bodies, voices, or aesthetics belong at the table. That’s the biggest lie—and the reason I do what I do. True fashion isn’t about hierarchy; it’s about humanity. It’s not just what’s trending—it’s what’s true. Fashion still clings to the illusion that innovation requires imitation, or that success demands sameness. But the future of fashion is diversity—of thought, talent, and perspective. The lie of “the formula” is fading, and those of us unafraid to redefine beauty, luxury, and visibility are proving it every day.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
People may misunderstand my legacy as being only about fashion, when in truth, it’s always been about empowerment. Style was simply my language. My work has never just been about clothes or trends—it’s about identity, confidence, and creating space for others to see themselves differently. Fashion was the medium; transformation was always the message. Some might think my legacy is built on luxury, but it’s really built on courage—the courage to create, to evolve, to stand alone when necessary. What I want people to understand is that every collection, every episode, every conversation was about challenging the narrative of who gets to belong in fashion. My legacy isn’t about fame; it’s about impact. People may remember the style, the shoes, and my TV show—but what they might not realize is that my legacy was never about attention, it was about intention. Every move I’ve made was rooted in purpose—to inspire authenticity, to build platforms for others, and to prove that grace and grit can coexist beautifully.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stylistmichellewashington.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stylistmichellew/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tvstyleexpert/
- Twitter: https://x.com/StylistMichelle
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVStyleExpertMichelleWashington
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TVStyleExpertMichelle
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tvstyleexpertmichellew
Image Credits
No credit, my phone
