Meet Soukena Jean-Jacques | Artist/ Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Soukena Jean-Jacques and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Soukena, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I was in fashion school in New York, Studying Fashion Merchandising / Designs in 2012 . I wanted to be a designer, and still do, however I absolutely knew nothing about the fashion industry.
After a few months of brainstorming, I decided the best way to figure out what my aesthetic can be as a future “Fashion Designer” is to become a wardrobe stylist. I figured in the process, of styling I am networking with models, photographers and learning the ins and out of creating looks.
Also, while doing so, building a name for myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud about the first step I took in order for me to be here. What I mean by that is; You immediately win when you start.

I am currently the most excited about adventuring into different creative avenues/outlets.
Wardrobe Styling has been a rollercoaster ride. One that I feel like, okay I think I’m done. I achieved great work, and worked with some amazing people. But now, I am excited to push my self a little bit more.

Although its been great working and styling for photographers, I am ready to start a new ride with photography of my own. I want to have more creative control so I can direct the work I really want to do.

I got to where I am today because I believe I could. I also believe I can achieve a lot more.
Networking, Having a great attitude, investing time and money in your work wether you are studying it/ applying research or getting a mentor / internship. Those are all important.

Nothing in life is easy, if it comes easy you will not appreciate it. I was a college student, who just again left home back in PAP, Haïti to move to NY. When I started styling I really did not have the funds, nor the knowledge and real background understanding of that industry.
I did a lot of unpaid work. I remember dragging bags of clothes, suitcases in the subway looking insane just to make it on set on snowing days… I had a lot of crying moments, but all worth it.

I faced so many challenges to the point sometimes I second guessed the decision to continue styling a few times. It’s important to know the purpose of your work, why you’re doing it. I am still facing challenges but I am optimistic.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way I wish I knew sooner are to invest more into my business rather then spend money elsewhere, take time to do the research for what you are trying to accomplish, try to avoid burning bridges because you never know who might be able to help. When creating, create with intentions and not for attention. Communicate effectively your ideas to your team so it doesn’t get lost in translation. Most importantly you want people to respect your time, work, and name. so always put your best foot forward.

Creatively I want the right people, organization, professional establishments to know of my work, I want to continuously grow creatively as an artist. It’s not having a big name and being known as top wtv. I want to live a creative life, one that can allow me to eventually give back to others and my family.

The thing is, I did not grow up with much, I grew up in Pap Haïti. I did not have a lot to dream about. You really don’t know your capability to achieve when you are in tough situations. So to me if I can encourage, inspire, or ignite someone purpose with what I do, that to me is real achievement.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Well in this scenarios I am inserting my mother. If she came here for a week
I would take her to a really cozy breakfast spot outdoors or on the roof.

Lets start in Silver lake first. Theres this cute restaurant (where going to pretend it still open). Its called Sawyers really sad to know they are now closed. But I would take her there on a Sunday, they had the best brunch menu and cocktails. family oriented and friendly environment.

After our brunch I would most likely walk around with her to show her the neighborhood and visit a few vintage stores like “Lemon Frog Shop” on N Alvarado St, ” Replay Vintage” on N Vermont ave and check out the “silver lake Flea” on sunset lvd

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Definitely can’t achieve greatness alone. I am grateful for my support system. Supportive friends and family members who never fails to lift me up, encourage me, or guide me in the right direction when I feel lost. I am entirely grateful for the photographers, Models, Glam squad, showrooms, all of my past internships I’ve work with or for. Thank you !

As for books “The Four Agreements” by Miguel Ruiz. Whenever I feel the need to be centered I go back to it.

Website: styledbyskj.portfoliobox.net

Instagram: styledbyskj

Youtube: @soukenarebel

Other: if you insist, www.rebelsgalaxy.com This website is mainly focus on my music contents

Image Credits
CARLOS GASTON @CARLOSGASTONPHOTO JAY @J.COREIMAGES ALEXANDRIA LIOR @LIORPICTURES SANDIA YSOL BRIAN CHRISTOPHER @BRIANCHRISTOPHER__