Welcome to Behind The Glow, Lively's new series spotlighting Hollywood's amazing stars, stylists & more as they celebrate notable achievements and cool career moments.
Dani Michelle makes a living styling A-listers like Kourtney Kardashian and Maren Morris for red carpets, award shows and premieres. It’s a job that sounds and looks glamorous (peek Michelle’s Instagram for proof!), but after chatting with the celebrity stylist, it's become evident that picture-perfect moments and behind-the-scenes chaos go hand in hand – especially when you’re working New York Fashion Week. “It’s a packed day!” Michelle tells Lively of the industry event.
The sartorial superstar took time out of her busy schedule to chat with us and bring us "behind the glow" as she preps for Fashion Week. Keep reading to find out what a typical day looks like for her as well as the Vital Proteins collagen product she always keeps stocked in her office.
Lively: You’re headed to New York Fashion Week – super exciting! What does a typical day during Fashion Week look like for you?
Dani Michelle: A typical Fashion Week day starts like any other; checking all the emails that happened overnight. After emails, I switch to Instagram and catch up on all the content that was posted, who was where and who wore what! Then I do a quick glam, and account for what shows I’m going to and what I’m wearing in support. Then, depending on my client’s schedule, what needs to happen in between each show to make sure they are set. Any spare time, I try to take meetings – it’s a packed day!
L: You’ve dressed so many amazing celebs – is there someone who’s taught YOU something new about styling?
DM: Amanda [Steele] has taught me with confidence any look is doable. I could go on and on because I learn new things every year. We are always growing, and my clients inspire me the most. At least we should be!
L: How do you find inspiration or spark creativity when you’re feeling uninspired?
DM: When I’m uninspired, I need to totally detach to get a clean slate, and I have to wait for it to hit me within. A text from a client – it’s all emotional for me – usually that does it.
L: Do you have an ultimate styling DO & DON’T you wish more people knew about?
DM: Don’t ever bring something you don’t love to a fitting – their manager or friend will suggest they wear it. It’s crazy, it’s like, “don’t look there!” So, I’ve learned to not bring anything I don’t fully believe in.
L: Is there a quote you live by that keeps you going on the most stressful days?
DM: It’s nice to be important, it’s important to be nice.
L: With such a hectic work schedule (especially during major events!), how do you make time for self-care?
DM: I have my go-to facialist, masseuse and manicurist that all do house calls, haha!
L: We know you’re a fan of Vital Proteins! What’s your favorite product and why?
DM: My office is stocked with Lemon Slice Collagen Water™. So easy for on the go! And of course, I love Kourtney [Kardashian]'s Pink Moon Milk.
Photos: Courtesy of @danixmichelle/Instagram