How I did it: styling the stars - work & wealth - Interview

One summer afternoon on a ranch near Los Angeles, singer Teena Marie spotted a snazzy young woman on horseback. The rider's fashion flair prompted the star to talk to her, and Dawn Haynes soon became Teena Marie's stylist. Haynes was 17 and began attending California State University at Long Beach that fall. But she toured with Teena Marie every summer until she graduated. The now-thirtysomething Haynes, who in 1991 launched the Dawn to Dusk Agency in L.A., says, "I'm a wardrobe stylist by nature, but an entrepreneur at heart." The agency offers its know-how in creating and reinventing looks for celebrities and high-profile professionals. It represents stylists specializing in wardrobe, hair and makeup, as well as photographers. Haynes says her client list is "from A to Q"--from Ananda to Quincy, with Chris Tucker, Eric Benet, Halle Berry, Mary J., Nia Long and others in between. "I believe in creating an entire look for a client," she adds. Repeat clientele contribute to her $500,000 annual salary.

GETTING STARTED: "I realized that many could benefit from my creative eye, and that I was quite comfortable negotiating as a businesswoman."

SECRETS OF SUCCESS: "I have passion for my work and turn each business opportunity into a lifelong friendship."

ART OF THE DEAL: "It's great being able to ensure that my artists get what they're worth. I can call stylists, let them know they are flying first-class, staying at a five-star hotel and earning $5,000 a day."

COPYRIGHT 2002 Essence Communications, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2002 Gale Group