"Threads of Passion: Anastasia’s Stylish Transition to Fashion Public Relations"

In the fast-paced world of fashion public relations, the journey of blending creativity with professional finesse often tells a fascinating story. I had the chance to sit down with Anastasia, a seasoned publicist who seamlessly transitioned from the world of journalism to the ever-evolving field of fashion PR. We talked about her beginnings, the experiences that shaped her career, and the challenges she faces in the industry. From navigating her early days as a stylist’s assistant in New York City to managing high-profile clients, Anastasia has developed a unique skill set that blends storytelling with strategy. Her path has been filled with pivotal moments that taught her how to thrive in an industry driven by fast-paced trends and ever-changing demands. Through our conversation, it became clear that Anastasia’s success is rooted in her adaptability, creative vision, and unwavering dedication to her craft.

september 21. Written by Ryan Packer

Finding Passion in Fashion and Journalism

Anastasia’s journey began in Long Island, where she pursued a degree in journalism. "I went to school for journalism in Long Island," she recalls. "But since I attended a private school, we never had classes on Fridays. So, from Friday through Sunday, I’d hop on the LIRR and head into Manhattan to intern as a stylist assistant." That early introduction to the world of fashion gave Anastasia a rare opportunity to dive straight into the heart of the industry, brushing shoulders with brands, stylists, and even celebrities—before she’d even turned 18.

But being a stylist assistant wasn’t just about the clothes it was a crash course in professionalism and quick thinking. "It wasn’t just about helping the stylist," she explains. "If they weren’t around, I had to step up, speak with clients, handle brands, and sometimes even interact with celebrities." In the fast-paced world of New York fashion, she had to adapt fast, learning how to communicate and problem-solve in a high-pressure environment. Those weekends spent in the city gave her an edge, blending her journalism skills with the real-world demands of fashion PR. This unique combination of experiences laid the groundwork for what would become a one-of-a-kind career, where writing and creativity would soon collide with the business of fashion.

Merging Writing and Fashion into a Career in PR

After graduation, Anastasia found herself at a crossroads—how to fuse her passion for fashion with her deep love for writing. “I had all these journalism skills, and I loved to write, but I also had this hands-on experience in fashion,” she reflects. “I wanted to blend both worlds, to use my writing abilities but still be involved in the action.”

Public relations turned out to be the perfect balance. "PR was the answer," she explains. "It let me stay in the thick of things, working closely with clients, stylists, writers, and celebrities, while helping orchestrate events, activations, and product launches. It was fast-paced and creative, but still let me tap into my storytelling skills."

In this multifaceted role, Anastasia found the best of both worlds—where she could shape narratives for brands and engage with the people behind the scenes, all while staying true to her creative roots. It’s the ultimate mix of artistry and strategy, letting her make an impact through both her words and her actions.

The Power of a Strong Support System

When Anastasia decided to dive into PR full-time, it wasn’t a leap she took alone. She’s quick to credit her support network for making that daunting transition possible. “PR is all about connections and knowing the right people,” she explains. “When I quit my job, I felt fresh, almost inexperienced, and I had serious doubts about whether I had the right connections or enough experience to succeed.”

But that’s when her inner circle—her partner, her mother, and her network—stepped in to remind her of her worth. “My support system was everything. They reminded me of all the amazing things I’d accomplished, the wins I hadn’t even stopped to appreciate.”

It was their belief in her that gave her the courage to go all in on PR. "It wasn’t an easy choice by any means," she reflects. "But the moment I made the jump, I knew I’d made the right decision. No regrets—just forward momentum."

Navigating the Highs and Lows of Fashion PR

In the fast-paced world of fashion PR, no two days are alike. For Anastasia, the excitement of the role is often tempered by the challenges of time management. “A huge challenge for me is juggling everything,” she admits. “I’m just one person, and sometimes I take on more than I can handle. The last thing I want is to let my clients down, but I also don’t want to come across as overbearing to the writers and editors I work with.” It's a constant balancing act of meeting client needs while ensuring she doesn’t overwhelm media contacts.

Working with a lot of menswear brands, Anastasia frequently interacts with the same writers, editors, and social media professionals. “I’m talking to the same people every day,” she shares. “I don’t want them to get tired of hearing from me, but at the same time, I can’t neglect my clients because I’m afraid of following up.” Managing these relationships with persistence and professionalism has become a fine art, one that requires a steady hand and a strong sense of intuition.

Personal Style Meets Professional Image

A notable aspect of Anastasia's career is how her own fashion sense contrasts with that of her clients. “Most of my clients are streetwear or menswear brands,” she laughs. "I’m a very feminine woman. I love heels, skirts, and looking pretty, so it’s always funny when I show up to a meeting with a team in cool sneakers and dope sweatpants, and I’m in a pencil skirt and heels."

However, she believes that this contrast allows her to expand her clients' audiences. Her style, while different from her clients’, helps her navigate various fashion spaces, bringing new perspectives to the brands she represents.

The Importance of a Support System and Staying Grounded

At the heart of Anastasia's success lies the power of a supportive community, which she believes is essential for navigating the vibrant yet demanding world of fashion PR. “In this fast-paced industry, a strong support system can be a game changer,” she shares. “It’s about having those cheerleaders who lift you up when the challenges feel overwhelming.”

As a Black woman making waves in PR, Anastasia embraces the unique hurdles she faces with grace and resilience. “It’s easy to get swept away in the hustle,” she reflects, “but having friends and mentors who remind you of your dreams and keep your spirit bright is invaluable.”

Her inspiring journey is a beautiful testament to the magic that happens when passion meets purpose. With the right support and a fearless heart, anyone can forge their own path to success in fashion, journalism, or any field that ignites their spirit.