Today we’d like to introduce you to Aubree Russell.
Hi Aubree, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Thirteen: My official start in styling began while I was a model for a local fashion show. Choosing “off the cuff” looks for adult models caught the eye of producer Lynnie Gamberdella, and soon I was balancing modeling with styling for the annual Faith Chapel benefit shows, raising money for women and children.
Eighteen: The momentum shifted as I began producing shows—managing everything from theme and choreography to the pulse of the music. A feature as a stylist in 944 Magazine served as a catalyst, leading to my acceptance at FCC. From there, I pursued every internship available, navigating the industry landscape from NY to LAFW. I still vividly remember an exclusive show in a La Jolla home during Zac Posen’s early days; he huddled with us, offering encouragement that fueled our collective passion. (Still have an exclusive scarf from that show)
Twenty-Five: I closed the chapter on the Faith Chapel shows with a 400-person turnout that significantly benefited local shelters for abused women. During this period, I became the Press Writer for Presidio Sentinel, which gave me front-row seats to meet many designers. I also served as the lead cue for Leonard Simpson’s grand productions and styled numerous editorial photoshoots, balancing creative play with professional recognition.
Thirty-Four to Forty-One: A simple inquiry about getting my children involved as brand representatives with Kids Fashion Week Network in Washington D.C. evolved into a life-changing dialogue. Following extensive conversations with the CEOs, I signed on as the Director of Kids Fashion Week Network So-Cal in 2019. Today, I am pouring my experience back into the youth, returning to the very roots where my own industry passion began. While I still style occasionally and do PR with Celebrity Designer Lizz Russell, this non-profit has truly captured my heart in this season of my life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The Road: The industry is often a “fight or flight” landscape defined by intense competition. It is a poignant reality, as we all share the same fundamental goal: to use our collective talent and creativity to let the viewer get lost in the sheer beauty of the art.
The Money Game: The creative world faces a persistent funding gap, often relying on “Trade for Print” (TFP) that defy traditional economic logic. Yet, when you possess a genuine love for the craft, you cannot help but use your gift. Whether assisting friends or family with my open wardrobe, my eye is always searching for the next aesthetic breakthrough. Ultimately, it is the collaborative spark of being invited into new projects that truly ignites my professional fire.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Stylist Life: While many ask if I am a hair stylist, I always redirect them to my first love: “Stylist of the Wardrobe”. Whether I am styling clients or, my personal favorite, working on photoshoots, the goal remains the same. Helping bring confidence and poise to a person/model—showing them a version of themselves they have never seen—is magic. It is more than just styling; it is evoking a strength from their inner core that may have been lost over time. It never ceases to amaze me how someone can stand a little taller and gaze in the mirror a little longer with a smile, prepared to walk into a room where their style initiates the conversation.
Director Life: Since 2019, I have directed KFW So-Cal, a full professional production involving the youth. Working alongside two professional models (Selina Hall and Rajanee Wright) I once styled for magazines—who have since become friends, model coaches, and creative counterparts—has been a proud, multi-year success. There is nothing quite like providing the building blocks to children aged 6 to 16 and cultivating their talent. From designers and models to DJs and vendors, we have seen incredible transformations; parents often share how much their children’s confidence has grown year after year, and that is what makes us truly proud.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
If you have youth and teens that are interested in the industry here in San Diego, SoCal or DC regions I encourage you to checkout Kids Fashion Week Network. Let them build their natural confidence while experiencing a professional runway production that is from the East to the West Coast. Become a part of the KFW Family follow us on socials: @KidsFashionWeekNetwork and get a seat for our upcoming show September 2026!
If you’re a Business or Company who wants to partner or sponsor us as a non-profit for the Youth, please reach out to us at www.kfwnetwork.com/contact and learn more about our impact here www.kfwnetwork.com/aboutus
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kfwnetwork.com/
- Instagram: @Stylishly_Positive and @kfwnetworksocal
- Facebook: Kidsfashionweeknetwork
- Youtube: Kidsfashionweeknetwork
