Monica Giliati is a personal stylist for women with the Montreal agency Les Effrontés, a position she took up after spending her entire working life in the fashion industry. What advice does she have for other young professionals? Find out in today’s YPDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
At 30 years old, I can finally join the bandwagon of people that love what they do. I am a personal stylist for women with the Montreal agency Les Effrontés. We are a team of 15 stylists (both men & women) offering several types of services to enhance one’s image, complete their wardrobe and help them to dress according to their body type, lifestyle and needs. From wardrobe editing to private fittings in our modern and comfortable salons, I work closely with my clients to show them a side of fashion that is pleasant and unlimited, where style becomes attainable, functional and unique.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I have always worked in fashion, whether it be in boutiques or in marketing headquarters for fashion labels. However, I was craving a new outlet where I could devote and explore my passion. I always knew about the agency and what they do, and was very curious about the personal styling world. So lo and behold, I gave it a shot! I completed the training, and was one of the lucky ones to be chosen to join the team. I fell in love with the idea. The fact that I was able to meet new people every day and connect with them on a new level was the inspirational factor that kept me hooked. I knew then and there that this was what I needed…this was my yellow brick road.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part would definitely be the relationships created with each new client. Everyone has a story, and each one of these narratives becomes an opportunity for me to grow and understand the way the world works just a little bit more.
I always loved a good challenge! If I am not challenged on a daily basis then everything would just fall flat. So the challenge to meet the needs of my client and make sure they get the full experience is definitely demanding and keeps me very energetic and motivated .
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I never like to look that far ahead…it ruins the surprise 🙂 But I at least hope to still be loving what I do every day, and to feel happy to wake up in the morning and start a new day. Oh, and possibly to have visited Fiji…
What does success look like to you?
Success to me is simple…happiness, good company, and positivity. I believe that the more you encourage optimism in your life, the more you will benefit from confidence and personal freedom. It sounds easier said than done, but is definitely a struggle in one’s lifetime; focusing on the good and trying your hardest to stay true to that is what “personal” success is all about.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Taking the bull by the horn and figuring out who I was, what I wanted, and who I wanted to be. Nothing comes to you – you gotta make it happen.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Stay open-minded, passionate, learn from everything and everyone around you, and stay true to yourself. The rest is easy. And a definite must is to network, network, network! Be active on every media channel out there and be public about who you are. Making the right connections and exploring this complex world will only strengthen the building blocks to your success.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Through our agency, Les Effrontes, we collect clothing from our clients that don’t suit them anymore and donate it to the YMCA and their program called Fringues & cie. This program is devoted to improving the lives of women and girls by increasing their skills, self-esteem and autonomy, encouraging their personal growth and preventing all forms of violence through various programs adapted to their needs. It is an extremely important cause as a women in the society we live in today. Every one deserves a chance to taste success and this program does exactly that.
What to you is notable?
Honesty. There is so much out there in today’s world, and so many ways to get confused or be confusing. If we are honest in what we do and what we believe in, then the word “genuine” finally becomes true. And, of course, being dedicated to your confidence and pursuing your dreams no matter what.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Eat, sleep, breath iPhone…
For more information or book a service with Monica, click here or call 514-521-4734.