I run a fashion blog

Franklin Saiyalel

Franklin Saiyalel, 22, loves fashion and would love to dress all and sundry. He spoke to WAMBUI THIMBA

What do you do?

I am a fashion stylist and currently Kenya’s leading male fashion blogger.

What does it entail?

My work as a fashion stylist entails building a network of designers and stores that stock clothes. I can use the clothes to dress my clients who are either performing artistes, news anchors or in the corporate world. It’s my duty that they look their best. I also do consultancy for clients whenever they want to have a new look or change their wardrobe.

When I’m not styling, I run a fashion blog, ww.kenyanstylista.tumblr.com. My blog is my baby and a platform for upcoming designers, models, and fashion events targeting the entire Africa. I also sell advertising space to designers and clients who have upcoming events.

How did you start out?

I started my blog two years ago, and it has grown tremendously. I give fashion advice. Designers then started seeking my help in styling their models for photo-shoots.

What did you study in school?

I studied Mass Communication, which I still practice. I make videos on styling and feature major fashion events in Nairobi, which I upload on my Youtube channel.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I love building my business network and getting to meet big names in the fashion industry. In April, I styled for Patricia Mbela for the Vogue Italia June edition. I even had the opportunity to meet the editor-in-chief of Vogue Italia, Franca Sozzani.

What are some of the challenges?

As a blogger, I have to look out for outstanding designers and good talent. Sometimes getting to them is a problem, because I can’t travel to their location — some of them are as far as West Africa and overseas. Blogging is a business like any other. I pay taxes too, so I can’t feature someone’s work if they are not willing to adhere to the financial agreement, which can sometimes be a problem.

What is a typical day like for you?

My days are never really the same. Some days I will have meetings or interviews to attend, other days I am holed up at home typing away on the blog or researching online. If I have a full day at home, I get up, shower and dress (as if I am leaving the house to go to an office). I check and reply to my emails. I also respond to any messages I have received on Facebook and Twitter.

If I have any assignments, I concentrate on those first and once completed, I begin researching on my next blog post. If I have a meeting scheduled, I carefully select what I will wear and the things I need to carry to the meeting. I take breaks throughout the day to clear my head.  I buy a magazine or newspapers, meet friends for lunch or go window-shopping (it’s research, honestly).

What are your long-term career goals?

I don’t intend to plan too far ahead. Right now, I would like for my blog; Kenyan Stylist to expand and reach other fashion-obsessed people all over the world. Establishing my blog has opened many doors for me and I would like that to continue.

What other fields have you worked in?

I have worked in the film industry, where my work was to dress the entire cast of the movie. I’ve also worked with renowned photographer Barbara Minishi as her shoot assistant. I have also been selected as a Judge for this year’s Fafa Emerging Designers Competition.

What do you like to do for fun?

I like to shop, try new restaurants and also attend music concerts.