Interview with RVA Stylist: Liz Clancy
Originally from New Orleans, Liz now works as a freelance stylist local to RVA. I have been incredibly fortunate to collaborate with her for many shoots throughout the years. True to her Instagram handle @LIZRULEZ, she does rule. This lady has created breathtaking floral hair pieces, created stylized hair masterpieces with three bobby pins and can apply fake eyelashes with no hesitation. I feel very lucky to have experienced and witness these amazing talents. Read on to learn more about this brilliant lady and get some styling and makeup tips!
Q.Tell us a little about yourself and your passion for being a stylist/hair and mua. How did you get started?
A. Ever since I was a wee kitten I knew I wanted to be involved with fashion. My sketchbooks were always filled with elaborate gown designs for fairy princesses (duh) and potential runway shows. I went to school for Fashion Merchandising at VCU, and started working at Anthropologie right out of college. I became a Personal Stylist for the company and got to help customers find the perfect look they never knew they wanted. There I met the one and only Master Stylist Cecelia Clark, who introduced me to the wonderful world of production. I began assisting with wardrobe for commercials and fell into hair and makeup as time went on. Now I am a full-time freelance Stylist and have a cool roll-y kit that makes me feel like a real grown up!
Q. What is your favorite kind of work to do?
A. Fashion styling is first and foremost my favorite since it has always been my passion. I love working on creative projects with my photographer friends (you, hehe). It not only keeps the creative juices flowing, but gives me a chance to work with all kinds of people: photographers, models, vendors, and other creatives. It feels so good when your friends can help you capture on film the idea that’s been floating around in your head!
Q.If you had one makeup tip, what would it be? OR If you had one hair styling tip, what would it be?
A. Liz Styling Tip 101: THERE ARE NO RULES. Whoever said ‘no white after Labor Day’ or ‘navy and black clash’ were seriously disturbed (Legally Blonde reference, you’re welcome). There literally are no boundaries, that’s what makes fashion so awesome. Once you get past that hump, shopping becomes sooo much easier.
Q. What are your favorite products to work with?
A. Makeup Forever is by far my favorite brand. It’s a French line, and everything is just so creamy and pigmented so you only need a tiny amount. And once you go Beauty Blender, you never go back.
Q. If you could pick ONE product, what would it be?
A. I just bought a new Nars concealer I’m obsessed with. OBSESSED. My dark circles run deeeep and I’m always trying new concealers to see what works best. This one knocks it out of the park. Here’s the link ;)
Q. What kind of services do you offer?
A. Wardrobe/Makeup Styling for commercial, film, still photography and weddings. And if you want to hire me to come hang out and raid your closet to put together new outfits I would love it. Experimenting is my favorite!
Q. Do you have any recommendations/advice for women that are considering doing a boudoir shoot?
A. Stop making excuses and just go for it! You can keep saying “I’ll do it after the holidays” and "Once I’m in shape for the wedding” till the cows come home. Unfortunately, as women, we are rarely satisfied with our bodies. And although I’m sure we’d all like to go to the gym more, sometimes you just gotta say, “HEY. I’m cool and I’m going to take hot pictures of myself!” Shooting boudoir for yourself is soo satisfying and empowering. If you’re doing it for a partner that’s great too, but embracing and feeling comfortable in your own skin is so sexy in itself.
Q. How did you feel/think after you saw your images?
A. I love my cozy little spot behind the camera, so being in front of it was definitely a little unnerving. I was extremely happy with the final images. It just feels so good to see yourself looking confident and cool in print. I peek at them secretly from time to time when I need a little self-assurance ;)
