Interview with an Aquarius: Joelle Litt

Joelle Litt is one of Toronto’s leading fashion stylists. From styling celebrities like Katy Perry to Priyanka Chopra and working on editorials in Elle Quebec, TIME and People Magazine, Joelle has seen it all in the fashion industry, inside Canada and out. In person, Joelle is the exact type of person that I want to take photos of; adventurous, colourful and complimentary. She draped a beautiful NAMESAKE jacket over her shoulders for our photo, which is special because the jackets are all one of a kind!

After finding out that she’s got an Aquarius sun, Sagittarius Moon, and Libra ascendant, I shouldn’t be surprised that her basic birth chart paints her as a forward-thinking, adventurous and fair-minded fashion professional. The stylist also blogs – read Joelle Says for her fashion updates!

I know you’re all about fashion, but how into astrology are you?

I believe in astrology and find it to be mostly correct but I don’t follow anything in particular religiously.

What do you like about your sign?

I like that when people find out I am Aquarius they seem to ‘get me’ and I don’t feel the need to explain myself to them lol.

Are there any characteristics associated with your sign that you dislike?

Nothing really bothers me but I guess I would say it bothers me that it bothers other people when they find me to be ‘aloof’.

What drew you to becoming a fashion stylist?

I’ve known the industry since I was 16 and just never pictured myself in any other industry. Styling was sort of a natural transition and there was no particular thought or event that went with that. I am still evolving all of the time as to where I fit in the industry.

What do you think it takes to succeed in fashion?

You need to be an observer, know how to listen, be patient and hardworking, and believe in your aesthetic. Lack of observing and listening is a deal breaker when new-comers are working with me.

In your opinion, what makes a striking image? Do you have any tips for us plebs?

I am very much about balance and it’s such a fine line for me. It’s common for me to add the simplest thing or take away to make an image work. A tip would be to be open to having it evolve from the initial idea. There are so many times I go into a project with specific ideas/references and it always moves away from that and becomes its own.

Who are your favourite photographers to work with?

Every photographer I continue to work with I enjoy working with so much. They are all unique and talented in their own way.

Who are your favourite models to work with?

Again, I love working with everyone I continue to work with. That said, I enjoy working with untraditional types of ‘beauty’ to help promote a healthier beauty standard.

What are your favourite Instagram accounts?

Some of my fav Instagram accounts are @ponymtl @verameat @marion_toy @fredericforest – but again I don’t follow anything at all religiously and I’m mostly just discovering new things all of the time.

Who are your favourite Canadian designers?

I have so many – Dennis Merotto, Eliza Faulkner, Jennifer Torosian, Atelier Wonder, Comrags, Hayley Elsaesser, Line, Pink Tartan, Thomas Balint, Markoo, UNTTLD, Brit Wacher, and I’m definitely leaving out a bunch.

Who are your favourite international designers? 

MSGM, Daniel Gregory Natale (from Canada), Kaelen (from Canada), Palmiers du Mal, Arianne Elmy, Berenik, Euphemio Fernandez and Carven.

How would you describe your personal style?

My style really changes with my mood. I’m mostly more on the androgynous side but sometimes I’m in the mood to dress more feminine and I do.  I think it’s important to not take how you dress too seriously and try to have fun with it. People have described my style as monochromatic – And I think that comes from my focus on balance.

What do you wear when you want to feel powerful?

The darkest lip and the biggest heel, with other stuff in between.