In this episode, I’m talking about what it’s like to be overqualified, underpaid, and overlooked in the fashion industry—while still expected to show up, deliver, and thrive. I’m sharing the reality of trying to build a career when the opportunities and pay don’t match the work, the pressure of navigating social media trends that don’t fit my brand, and the constant push to make it all work.

Then, I’m giving you my fashion editor POV on why your pitches aren’t landing. From missing editorial deadlines to ignoring submission guidelines, I’m breaking down the exact mistakes I see and what you can do to actually get featured.

Key Moments:

• The emotional and financial toll of being overqualified but underpaid in fashion

• Why I won’t chase social media content that doesn’t serve my brand

• What editors really look for when reviewing pitches

• How editorial calendars impact your chances of getting featured

• Why entitlement and generic pitches get you ignored in fashion media

Next Week Sneak Peek:
Next episode, I’m recapping Project Runway and covering the latest fashion headlines

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: https://advisormag.co/the-black-fashion-media-equity-program/

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

Welcome back to The Haute Guide!

This week, I’m breaking down my 2025 guide to pitching yourself in fashion—whether you want press features, brand deals, or speaking opportunities. I’m giving you the exact tools you need, where to find the right contacts, and how to approach editors, brands, and event organizers so your pitch actually gets noticed.

I’m also weighing in on Ami Colé’s brand closure and what it says about the state of Black-owned beauty brands, plus the growing use of AI models in campaigns—and why it’s both an ethical and industry game-changer.

Key Moments:

• The real reason Ami Colé closing matters for Black fashion entrepreneurs

• How AI models could change fashion marketing (and not always for the better)

• The must-have assets every fashion creative needs before pitching

• Where to find direct opportunities with editors and brands

• Cold pitching tips that work in 2025

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: https://advisormag.co/the-black-fashion-media-equity-program/

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

I’m back, y’all. Season 2 of The Haute Guide is here, and I’m bringing even more of what you came for — unfiltered fashion talk, real industry insights, and the gems you didn’t even know you needed. This season, I’m diving into what it really takes to break into fashion, build your brand, and stay relevant, while also giving my hot takes on the headlines and moments shaking up the industry. If you’re ready for fashion talk with a side of strategy and a lot of personality, pull up a seat — we’ve got a lot to cover.