Samia Laaboudi is a New York-based image consultant and stylist on a mission to empower and elevate her clients through conscious fashion. She is the AICI Global Magazine and Hue & Stripe Fashion Editor, a certified image consultant from New York Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), a stylist, and a conscious fashion speaker.
Samia is at the center of global fashion, consistently attending New York and Paris Fashion Weeks. She is also an active member of styling teams for editorial photoshoots. Her work has recently been featured in fashion magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. The strong connections she has forged and her active involvement in the industry not only enable Samia to stay at the forefront of emerging trends but also provide her with a firsthand understanding of the ever-evolving fashion landscape.
Special thanks to photographer @roxane.dealmeida for capturing this stunning image.
Samia Laaboudi Questionnaire
Q. You transitioned from a career as a corporate consultant to the world of fashion. What inspired you to take the leap?
A. Fashion has always been a deep passion of mine, one that remained alive even during my years in corporate consulting. While working in the industry, I often found creative outlets through Instagram, where I could express my perspective on style and connect with like-minded individuals. Deep down, I always knew that one day, I would carve out a path in the fashion world, helping people elevate their image and confidence through style.
The true turning point came when I moved to New York in early 2020 during the COVID pandemic. Leaving behind my job and life in Paris to start a new chapter alongside my husband, I found myself at a crossroads. This period of transition and uncertainty prompted a deep self-reflection, and it became clear that pursuing another consulting role would not bring me the fulfillment I sought.
It was in that moment of clarity that I made the unwavering decision to fully follow my passion. I first enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York to earn my certification in image consulting. Soon after, I launched my business, fully committed to building something meaningful. From the start, I knew there was no turning back; this was my calling, and I was ready to embrace it completely.
Q. What brings you the most joy in your work as an image consultant and stylist? Is there a specific aspect of the role that stands out as especially rewarding?
A. What brings me the greatest joy as an image consultant and stylist is witnessing the profound transformations my clients experience not just in their wardrobes but in their confidence and self-expression. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is guiding individuals to rediscover their true image and align their style with who they truly are.
A recent transformation that stands out involves a highly accomplished doctor and devoted mother. While her style was traditionally classic, it had become outdated and no longer reflected her vibrant personality, largely because she hadn’t actively refreshed her wardrobe in years. Over the course of several months, we worked together to redefine her image, curating a wardrobe that exudes sophistication and elegance with a touch of dramatic elements that truly celebrate her exuberance and uniqueness.
Seeing her step into this new chapter with confidence, fully embracing a style that enhances her natural beauty and resonates with her personality, has been incredibly fulfilling. The shift has been undeniable; not only does she feel empowered, but those around her have also taken notice of her renewed presence and energy. Helping my clients experience this kind of transformation is what makes my work so meaningful.
Q. Circular and conscious fashion are central to your styling philosophy. Are there any designers or brands you particularly admire for their commitment to sustainability? What makes their approach stand out?
A. Absolutely! Circular and conscious fashion are at the heart of my styling philosophy, and I deeply admire designers who are pioneering sustainability in a way that feels both intentional and innovative. I also have immense respect for brands like Stella McCartney, who has been a trailblazer in ethical luxury, continuously pushing the boundaries with innovative fabrics and cruelty-free practices. Gabriela Hearst is another designer redefining sustainability through impeccable tailoring and a slow-fashion mindset, ensuring every piece is made with longevity in mind. Lastly, I would add that Marine Serre is one such designer who stands out for her ability to merge eco-conscious craftsmanship with a bold, avant-garde aesthetic and is truly inspiring. She seamlessly integrates upcycled materials into her collections, proving that sustainability and high fashion can coexist without compromise. Their work reinforces the idea that style and sustainability can be seamlessly intertwined, which is exactly the mindset I bring into my own approach to styling.
Q. Having lived in two of the world’s major fashion capitals, Paris and New York, how would you compare their styles? Which city inspires you more?
A. Having lived in both Paris and New York, I find it nearly impossible to choose one over the other; they are both deeply ingrained in who I am and continue to shape my perspective on fashion. Paris embodies timeless elegance, effortless refinement, and an appreciation for quality and craftsmanship, while New York thrives on bold individuality, constant evolution, and an eclectic mix of styles. My Moroccan roots, combined with my multicultural background, allow me to draw inspiration from both cities in a way that feels natural and ever-evolving. Whether it’s the effortless sophistication of Paris or the dynamic energy of New York, I embrace both influences in my work, blending heritage, modernity, and a commitment to conscious fashion into my unique perspective.
