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In the latest episode of Iowa Media, we sit down with Anna Ruiz, a fashion stylist who turned a global career into her dream job. Known for her passion for style and her innovative approach to fashion, Anna shares her story of switching from hospitality to styling, her favourite fashion influences, and her plans for the future. From Siberia to Miami, Anna’s journey is as inspiring as her wardrobe advice.

From Siberia to Setting Trends

Anna’s story begins in Siberia, where fashion options were far from vibrant. Most people chose neutral outfits in black and grey while young Anna stood out in bold colours and distinctive clothing. Her eye for style was apparent from the start, and this early individuality would set the tone for her future.

At just 16, she moved to Moscow alone and began studying hospitality. Little did she know, this bold move was the first step in a winding career path that would lead her to become an internationally-recognised stylist years later.

Building a Global Career in Hospitality

Anna’s initial path was one of discipline and leadership. As a hospitality professional, she climbed the ranks to manage Ritz-Carlton hotels across the world. She worked in cities as diverse as Moscow, Thailand, Austria, Hong Kong, St. Thomas, and eventually, Miami.

Her role as a hotel manager demanded precision, people skills, and a keen eye for detail—qualities that would later fuel her success in fashion. While achieving career milestones many would envy, Anna eventually felt the tug of her true passion: styling.

Embracing Fashion Full-Time

Two years ago, Anna made the gutsy decision to leave her established hospitality career and dive into the world of fashion styling. She pursued a third round of education, focusing on styling, and began building her new career while juggling two jobs.

Her early days weren’t easy. Balancing long hours in hospitality with fashion projects required grit and determination. But slowly, her hard work paid off. Today, she’s a Miami-based stylist working with clients, organising fashion shows, and leading exciting editorial shoots.

The Influence of the 1950s

For Anna, the 1950s represents the peak of elegance in fashion. Marilyn Monroe, the Dior “New Look,” and Chanel’s iconic tweed suit are a few of the era’s timeless highlights. The period stands out as one where fashion struck a perfect balance between bold femininity and structured sophistication.

Anna often incorporates the spirit of the ’50s into her personal style. She loves highlighting the waist with belts and gravitates towards midi skirts. These vintage influences seamlessly mix with modern sensibilities in her wardrobe.

Tailoring Styles to Fit Every Client

While Anna admires the ’50s for her personal looks, her approach with clients is far more individualised. She believes every person has unique preferences and styles that suit different aspects of their personality and body shape.

Whether it’s bringing vintage glamour or sticking to clean, modern lines, Anna’s goal is to ensure every client feels a connection with what they’re wearing.

Behind the Scenes: A Memorable Fashion Show

Anna’s recent fashion show at Brickell City Center in Miami holds a special place in her heart. Held in partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue, it showcased a variety of looks, from shiny, bold pieces to timeless classics.

Anna’s ability to curate something for everyone is what made the show a standout. Whether the audience preferred something sparkly or classic, she made sure there was something that resonated.

Styling in Miami: The Highlights and Challenges

Miami, known for its vibrant fashion scene, offers both opportunity and competition. For Anna, entering the industry in Miami wasn’t without its challenges. Designers sometimes hesitated to collaborate, citing previous bad experiences with so-called stylists who lacked professionalism.

Anna found this frustrating. She understood the importance of formal education and professional experience but noticed the market was crowded with influencers who used styling as a label without the necessary expertise.

Despite the challenges, Anna chose to approach her work with professionalism and integrity, carving out her space in the industry.

Mentoring Future Stylists

Sadly, when Anna sought mentorship from established stylists early in her career, she found doors closed. However, she uses her position now to lead differently. When budding stylists ask to assist her, she always offers opportunities to learn, ensuring the next generation of professionals gets the support she never had.

Helping Women Gain Confidence

One of Anna’s proudest achievements is her commitment to helping women embrace their individuality through fashion. She designed a system called “wardrobe detox,” a process aimed at clearing out unflattering or outdated pieces and focusing on styles that empower and uplift.

This concept isn’t just about cleaning up a closet; it’s about transforming how women see themselves. By dressing for their body shape and goals, Anna’s clients rediscover confidence in their appearance and identity.

Anna’s Style Guide: A Personalised Blueprint

Anna takes things a step further for her clients by creating a custom style guide tailored to their lifestyle, body type, and preferences. This unique resource ensures her clients can make confident fashion choices even when she isn’t with them.

Packed with recommendations, the guide serves as a lasting reminder of the lessons and advice Anna shares during her sessions.

When Clients Resist Change

Occasionally, clients struggle to let go of old styles, even when they’re holding them back. Anna understands this hesitation and approaches it with patience. Drawing on her hospitality background, she uses diplomacy to gently steer clients toward better options.

Using side-by-side comparisons and mirrors, Anna shows clients how new styles enhance their appearance. Often, seeing the transformation firsthand is all it takes to change their minds.

Launching Lumiere Magazine

With styling well under control, Anna has expanded her creative efforts into publishing. She’s the creative director of Lumiere, a lifestyle magazine dedicated to fashion and philanthropy.

The first issue will feature inspiring women in philanthropy and be distributed in exclusive locations like VIP airport lounges along the East Coast. This high-end project merges her passion for fashion with a desire to highlight meaningful causes.

Collaboration and Creativity

Anna’s work on Lumiere aligns closely with her collaborative spirit. Working alongside her “work wife,” Olga, she’s brought the magazine to life through partnerships with art organisations like Art Leaving. The magazine offers a fresh perspective on fashion, philanthropy, and lifestyle.

Taking the Leap

Anna’s story is one of courage and authenticity. She left a thriving career to pursue something she truly loves, inspiring others to do the same. Her message is simple: we only live once, so why not make bold choices and follow your dreams?

This sense of purpose also extends to women supporting women. Anna hopes to see more people uplifting one another and fostering kindness.

If there’s one takeaway from Anna’s journey, it’s that real change requires action. Whether it’s clearing out your wardrobe or starting a new career, the first step is always the hardest—but also the most rewarding.

Anna Ruiz’s story is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and creativity. From Siberia to Miami, from hospitality to fashion, she’s proven that reinvention is always possible when you’re willing to work for it.

If you’re considering a career in styling—or simply looking to update your personal style—Anna’s advice and approaches offer valuable inspiration.

And remember, don’t forget to share Anna’s message. Whether it’s a friend who dreams of becoming a stylist or someone in need of fresh fashion advice, this interview is a must-read.

Be sure to subscribe to Iowa Media’s YouTube channel for more insightful interviews, and follow Anna to stay ahead of the style curve.