Lux Life: Lux Wright
Talking fashion, trends, inspiration, and confidence with stylist Lux Wright.
Written by Sofia Deeb
If you’re looking for style, it's got to be lux. . . Lux Wright that is.
Flip through one of our issues and you’re bound to catch a glimpse of the extraordinary work of stylist and designer Lux Wright. Lux has spent nearly three years styling shoots for Santa Barbara Life and Style Magazine, and it’s no secret that her craft truly brings the pages to life. But editorial styling isn't her only forte–she also boasts an expansive portfolio of styling for film and commercials. Lux has styled a number of celebrities, and has even had her work published on covers of Architectural Digest featuring Kendall Jenner and Cara Delevingne. As a full-time-fashionista, her work goes beyond styling. Lux is also a popular social media personality (@luxalot) and even runs her own Depop boutique.
We sat down with Lux to get the lowdown on all things fashion.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Lux Wright and I'm a stylist based in Los Angeles, California. I work mainly on commercials and editorials, and also do personal styling. I've been in the industry for over 10 years now and I absolutely LOVE my job.
How did you get started as a fashion stylist?
I graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and started my career in retail doing window displays and visual merchandising. While I enjoyed it, I realized that retail didn't give me the creative freedom I was looking for, so I moved onto events, and from there I got into production. I quickly learned that the production world is exactly where I wanted to be. I found that working in the fast-paced environment of commercials and photo shoots pushed me to do my best work and allowed that creative freedom I was looking for.
Where do you gain inspiration?
I am inspired by everything. Really. Anything from music, to nature, landscapes and architecture, traveling, movies, food, a mood I'm in, or even something as simple as a combination of colors. I get inspiration from everywhere and I'm so thankful that it's never lacking.
What are some of your career highlights?
One of my favorite things about what I do is all the beautiful and exclusive locations we get access to. I've also gotten to work with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry: Angelina Jolie, Will Smith, Kendall Jenner, Mike Tyson, Cara Delevingne, Odell Beckham Jr., Tom Brady, Cher... Each day is something different and I'm so grateful for all the experiences I've had.
How would you describe your style?
Lately, my style is very 90's, but no matter what my look is for the day, I always like for there to be an element of excitement in what I'm wearing or styling. Whether it's the overall vibe, a color, a print, the fit, or pairing unconventional pieces with each other–I like to see personal expression. I also love classics that are stamped with a statement–something like a black pump, but when you turn, it's a heel covered in crystals. I also love to mix patterns & textures. And whatever I do, it has a feminine flair.
How do you work with clients to create looks that reflect your brand as well as their personalities?
It's all about communication and trust. Clients hire me because they need help executing a final vision, and it's my job to make that happen. I listen to what they want, who they are as a brand, any concerns they may have and once I get all of the information, I submit my visual interpretations based on our conversations. There, I'm able to include elements of my style into the project and guide the job to be the best version it can be.
What is your process for predicting trends?
I look at society in the present state–how people are acting, feeling, what's bringing people excitement or unease. I consider what's going on in the world, the economy, the entertainment industry, social issues. I look at social media, history, and more specifically the history of fashion. I consider what's currently trending, and how I think things will evolve based on all of the above. Lastly, I go with my intuition and what I'm naturally drawn to.
What trends do you predict will be big this year?
-Leather. More and more brands are finding ways to use sustainable or faux leather and not just for bags, shoes and jackets. We'll be seeing a lot more leather pants, tops, even head-to-toe leather looks.
-Trench Coats. Trench coats in all different lengths, fits and materials will be filtering through the retail world this year. Plenty of options for all body types, occasions and seasons.
-Color. The whole world has experienced so much in the past few years and people are exhausted, tired of not being able to do things the way we used to and we need some excitement. Insert: color! We're seeing it in the beauty industry already and it's one of the best ways to show self-expression. I think more and more people will be using loads of color in their day to day looks and I can't wait!
What are some staples everyone needs in their wardrobe for 2022?
-Platforms, definitely. Platforms are one of my favorites, whether it's on a heel, a sneaker, a boot–I love them. I think they are such a great and simple way to add interest to any look, they help elongate the body and they're easier to walk in than they look!
-Blazers for sure. Blazers are a true staple, and have evolved into a great unisex piece that is completely versatile. They can be worn fitted or oversized, more casual or for business, but always polishing off a look perfectly.
-Sunglasses. Eye protection from the sun is so important and wearing a frame that you feel good in only adds to the benefit they provide. If you're having trouble finding a pair that you like on your face, I recommend taking selfies in a number of pairs and see what you gravitate towards. And since you're trying things out, don't be afraid to go for styles you wouldn't normally wear–you're there, might as well try!
What tips do you have for staying on top of all the upcoming fashion trends?
While I do think it's important to update your wardrobe, I know that staying on top of trends can be overwhelming. If you want to try something new, my advice would be to start with one or two pieces, cycle them into your wardrobe and see how they make you feel when you wear them. If you're wanting to create more variety in your looks, play around with accessories. Variations of jewelry, hats, belts, etc. can totally add to and change up your looks in a feasible way. But overall, I would try not to put too much pressure on being trendy–I think it's more about wearing what you like and owning that. When you're wearing something you feel confident in, that always shines brightest. We are also at a point in time where we can all wear pretty much whatever we want and it's amazing. So I say, embrace that, because above all–confidence is key.
