Meet Kaylee Toruno | Modest fashion content creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kaylee Toruno and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kaylee, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
The purpose of my content isn’t just to seek validation on what I wear or to receive more recognition for myself. It is to help girls around my age who don’t feel comfortable or pretty enough when wearing modest clothing feel the positive opposite. I know what it was like thinking that I needed to show my body/skin to feel pretty. While there’s nothing wrong with that, I’ve come to realize it’s not necessary, especially with my faith guiding me. I’ve learned that our outward appearance shouldn’t hold so much importance. While we should always look presentable and put together, it is not the key to how we should define or value ourselves. When a girl comes seeking guidance from me, that gives me a clear sign that I should keep going. My purpose is to reach out and make dressing modestly enjoyable. I want to break the stereotype that dressing modestly equals looking like an “old lady.” My goal isn’t just about boosting myself, it’s about spreading the bigger picture/message.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I do not only show my creativity through my content but I also work in church production/media. I have been (and still am) a photographer for many church services–district and local. I also dabble in graphic design and my favorite, I help manage my church’s social media. All of these responsibilities helped me tap into my creative side.

I didn’t choose to randomly start serving in the church but it was the support and trust from my leadership team that I began tapping into the creative ministry. It wasn’t easy at first and I wouldn’t say it’s light work now. However, the ministry continues to test and stretch my creativity. I overcame challenges by reaching out to familiar creatives in this field and asking for input/constructive criticism.

A lesson I have learned along the way is that it’s okay to not know where or when your next step is. I’ve realized that I cannot control every opportunity or outcome in my life. Sometimes the best thing to do is to just wait. Great things do not come rushed.

What I want the world to know about my story is that I am just a girl who loves being creative whether it’s in her fashion or ministry. That I don’t do this just to show off but I do it to show others that they can do what I do. I also want them to see the love I have for God through my work. I couldn’t be where I am without Him.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First of all, Houston is my favorite.

I would visit restaurants like the Gypsy Poet, Citizens on Montrose, Le Peep, Post Script Houston, Gratify htx Bistro, Trattoria Sofia, and Annabelle Brasserie.

I would visit places like our museums, the Color Factory, La La Land, Eden Plant Co., Buffalo Bayou Park, McGovern Centennial Gardens, Post Houston, City Center, and any cute pottery painting place.

I love going to interactive places as well as visiting coffee shops in the Houston area!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A person I’d like to give a shoutout to is my best friend Celeste. In my content, all you mostly see is me. Whether I am talking about a collab, my day, an outfit, or my faith. However, most of my work is not only approved or created by me. When it comes to posting carousels, Celeste is almost always behind my Sony or iPhone hyping me up and taking my pictures. I honestly don’t know what’d I do if she wasn’t my built-in best friend and photographer. I never feel shy about showing her the content I make because I feel comfortable. She’s always giving positive feedback or constructive criticism to help me improve my content. When I am not sure if my outfits make sense, I always ask her. She is the person I can come to and share my ideas with while still getting the raw honesty that I value. Not only does she help me out but she always reassures me when I start to doubt if I am making a difference.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleetoruno/

Other: Pinterest! https://pin.it/5JyC4r5XH