You cannot talk about outstanding celebrity fashion stylists in Hollywood without mentioning Dennis Kenney. He has gained fame over the years as a result of his creativity and participation in big projects such as awards like the Grammy’s, Tony’s and Met Gala. His work has been shown on television for instance in Season 10 of TLC and HGTV’ s trading spaces. He was the celebrity stylist on Good Morning America where he has been known for going beyond the set rules of styling to create amazing looks and setting celebrated unorthodox fashion trends. His clothing brand NONDK equally radiates his creativity and sends a message of ” Not Out-Numbered” aimed at unifying and reminding people that they are not alone regardless of their sexuality, gender, race, background etc. We were lucky enough to have an interview with the astounding Dennis Kenney and this is what he had to say.
What motivated you to launch NONDK?
I have been working in the fashion industry for a while now and have gained experiences, connections and achievements. However, I wanted to create my brand. Something that is not only great fashion, fabric, style or on-trend but also represents the things that are significant to me and I believe in. The NON in NONDK stands for Never Out-Numbered. I created NONDK so people can wear great clothing but at the same time remember that we are all united. They are not alone despite differences in beliefs, sexuality, gender, political ideologies, background and anything that tends to create differences. NONDK is a statement of love and unity embedded in style.
What motivates you to be a great celebrity fashion stylist?
I love fashion and clothing. It is a beautiful way to show the world who you are and what you feel. To me, styling celebrities is not just about fabric and looking good. It is about helping people express who they truly are in the inside and making their presence felt. To me, that is beyond beautiful and the greatest motivation in my celebrity fashion styling projects.
What makes your styling unique?
I think my fashion styling is unique because I break the fashion rules
that people believe in. The secret recipe is pairing clothing pieces that you usually wouldn’t pair together or wearing them at a time you usually wouldn’t. In the afternoon pair those pants with that shiny snake print jacket you only wear at night, mix two different patterns you never thought would work, try out some colours if you only try the monochrome vibe and see the magic happen. Break the rules, be spontaneous, be confident and most importantly be yourself.
What setbacks have you faced throughout your career?
The biggest setback I have faced is rejection especially when I was starting as an actor before getting into fashion. Rejection can be hard but once you realize it is a way of the universe to put you at where you are supposed to be, you see it positively, get up, put in the work and keep your focus. There will always be obstacles especially if your dream is big but as long as you don’t let them bring you down you will eventually get there. Rejection is a challenge and one more way to learn how you can improve in what you do and eventually succeed.
What advice do you have to give to budding experts in the industry?
They should never give up and do all they can to fulfil their vision. Be patient, it is a rocky road but with the right determination, you will get there. Once you are at the place you wanted, do not forget where you came from. Most people become successful and lose themselves in fame and the fruits of their labour. Do not be those people.