Florence Kariza gleaming in the fashion industry as a stylist

UNDERSTANDING the profound impact of self-image on personal and professional achievements is paramount. Women, in particular, face the weight of societal expectations regarding their appearance and behavior. Anchored in her love for helping women build a strong, authentic personal and professional image, Florence Kariza is making a difference as a Style Consultant and Fashion Stylist. She avidly devotes herself to guiding women towards building a solid foundation of authenticity and confidence.

The Entrepreneurial Magazine established that Kariza is guided by the belief that true beauty radiates from within, thus she is empowering women to embrace their unique features, boost their self-worth, and celebrate their own definition of beauty.

Below are the extracts of the interview:

In brief tell us about yourself

My name is Florence Kariza. I’m am Style Consultant and Fashion Stylist.  I help women improve their self-image through assisting them build a good personal and professional style .

What motivated or inspired you to launch the Flo the stylist brand, and what was the driving force behind your desire to revive lost confidence in women?

Motivated by the realization that local individuals frequently turned to foreign fashion bloggers and stylists for style advice, I embarked on launching the Flo The stylist brand. I acknowledged the need for someone who could provide Zimbabwean women with easily accessible style tips rooted in an understanding of the Zimbabwean lifestyle, my aim was to offer relatable guidance that women from all walks of life could follow.

Could you share your vision for the future of Flo the stylist?

I firmly believe that the brand will evolve into the premier style consultancy in Zimbabwe. In just one year and a few months, the brand has garnered a following of over 100k organic followers on Facebook and has made a significant impact in empowering numerous women to enhance their self-image. With dedication and unwavering consistency, I am confident that I will achieve my goal.

Who are your style icons or sources of inspiration in the fashion industry? How have they influenced your own personal style and the services you provide as a stylist?

My style icons are undoubtedly the Kardashian sisters. I have long been inspired by their undeniable influence in the fashion industry. Their ability to create a unique style that resonates with so many people has captivated my admiration. They have taught me the importance of embracing my true self and cultivating a style that reflects my individuality, rather than conforming to societal norms. Their message of authenticity resonates deeply with me, as I believe that being true to oneself is what truly captures people’s hearts. As a stylist, I strive to impart the same ethos to those who seek my guidance. I always encourage them to embrace their own uniqueness and witness the world falling in love with their distinctive style.

As a stylist, could you provide your perspective on what fashion styling entails? How would you define the role of a stylist?

Styling is more like being entrusted to build someone’s image. Clothes are like a packaging that represents us on the outside, so as a stylist I’m responsible for helping someone create a good packaging, a good image that best represents them.

Are there any specific qualities or abilities that you believe are crucial for aspiring stylists to develop?

Firstly, ability to accept that we are all different. What you like is not what the next person likes. This helps you have a neutral way of helping your clients.  As a stylist you wouldn’t want to force your style preferences on a client.  Always research, you need to have deep understanding of fashion and style, different body types and lifestyles so that you help people accordingly. Hardworking, you have be able to be work under pressure. Patience, be able to work with different characters.

How do you balance staying true to your own unique style and creative vision while also meeting the diverse needs and preferences of your clients? How do you ensure that you maintain a balance between personal expression and client satisfaction?

I have learnt to accept that we are different and we do not all like the same things. What I value the most is comfort and confidence.  One has to feel comfortable and confident with their style. So I assist my clients along the lines of what makes them happy and comfortable I’m always supportive.

This question relates to something that women often have to deal with that may impact their ability to move up in an organisation or navigate their business activities. How have you balanced work and family?

I’m Fortunate that the type of work I do allows me to plan how and when I work. It’s more like freelancing and I get time to balance both work and family. 

In your own opinion and in brief are we ever going to reach gender equity or equity or it is just a theory that is morally right.

We are already half way there, there has been a huge change over the years. Women are now dominating in spaces they were never considered in before. Full gender equity is definitely possible.

March is Women’s month and this year it is celebrated under the campaign theme, #InspireInclusion. In brief, what does the theme mean to you? 

Inspire inclusion to me means not being limited as women. Discovering our full potential because there is no gender- based disadvantages. Women being free to occupy spaces and display their power and capabilities without limitations.