Q: Can you tell us about yourself and your fashion background?
As a kid I always altered my clothing. It started with cutting fingers off gloves, cutting pants into shorts but I was never good with the sewing machine. I did know exactly how I wanted it, so my mom would help sew it together. I was always a very creative kid and loved arts and drawing.

I went to design school and worked as a graphic designer after graduating. I felt a bit disappointed sitting behind a desk.  I learned that my love was more in fashion. I started doing a lot of trend forecasting which meant I went to trade and fashion shows reporting back about the latest trends. I found my passion doing that and learned there was a postgraduate degree for styling at this school called Artemis in Amsterdam.

After I graduated I landed a job as a fashion editor for a Dutch music magazine and was able to shoot editorials on a weekly basis. I built a portfolio full of great photos.  When I moved to San Francisco I got accepted with an agency that represented stylist.  For the past 5 years I have been operating independently. I work together with my husband who is also a prop stylist.

Q: Who or what are your fashion influences?
When I first started my career I was really into following the latest fashion shows, trends and I looked at lots of fashion magazines. The more I started trusting my own guts, the less I started following others. Now, I don’t read a single fashion magazine. I look at the runway shows, only just to get a glimpse. Rather I look around me and take notice, mostly from people on the streets and my friends. I find that to be more true and applicable.

Q: Where do you get your inspiration?
For myself, I get inspiration from what I see on the streets, especially when I travel. For my job, it’s a little different. Every project is different. But mostly, I use tools like Pinterest and Instagram to help visualize these projects.

Styling by Jasmine

Q: How would you describe your style?
I see my own style as eclectic with a ‘bohemian’ touch. I am really a chameleon that likes to dress according to the situation that I am in. But above all, I like to invest in pieces of good quality that are timeless and will last. I love natural fabrics like silk, linen, organic cotton, wool and leather.

Q: What has been your most memorable moment in your career so far?
This year I got a call from a producer who asked me if I was up for a crazy project. It was leading the costume department for an independent feature film with James Franco!    It was a period story where the characters are really supported by their costumes. I had to make several sacrifices like turning down commercial work down for it, but in the end it was so worth it. The director and crew where amazing.  It was very humbling to work with people who were passionate for the same cause. The experience is one to never forget. The film is called ‘Yosemite’ and will come out later this year. 

Q: What is your mental checklist before a photo shoot?
I always want to be super organized; it’s half the hassle and gives you peace of mind. I always make sure I know what I am doing. Usually I get this thing called a ‘call sheet’ which has all the information about the shoot. I study that.  I make sure to pack my car the night before so I can go to bed with a clear mind. It’s important to get a good night’s rest.

Styling by Jasmine

Q: Name five items that every fashion stylist needs on a photo shoot?
1.    Topstick (double sided tape that sticks to skin and fabric)
2.    A steamer
3.    Safety pins
4.    Scissors
5.    Lint brush

Q: What’s the one fashion item you can’t live without and why?
That is really hard to answer because I try not to be too materialistic. I guess I could say that I can’t live without my top knot. It really originated from it being the ‘perfect model hairstyle’ as its part of the ‘blank canvas’. To me it’s just perfect for any dressy or casual affairs.

Q: What do you love most about your career?
I love that every day is different. Every project has its own challenges.  There’s never a dull moment. I love being my own ‘boss’. I can work really hard for 10 months and then take off and travel for the rest of the year. I love collaborating with all the creative people I meet.  I love that I work together with my husband. 

You can follow Jasmine on Instagram via @StylistJasm.  See more of her work for Ariat Fashion boots.