Shanice Henderson, a graduate of Northwestern State University, works in a Shreveport clinic as a radiologic technologist. Although she is in the medical fi eld, her true passion is fashion. As a freelance fashion stylist, she has produced numerous fashion shows and photo shoots in Shreveport-Bossier City under her alter ego “REDiva.” Henderson has a fashion blog and also does creative consulting. Henderson can be reached for fashion styling and creative counseling at Redivaredesigns@gmail.com.

Q: Who is “REDiva?” HENDERSON: ‘REDiva’ is my alter ego who gives me permission to be fearless, fierce and fabulous. She represents my love for art, music, fashion and photography.

Q: How would you describe your style? HENDERSON: I do not limit myself to a certain style. I’m always exploring old and new avenues of fashion. My style is forever evolving.

Q: Would you consider yourself eclectic and what does eclectic mean to you? HENDERSON: It’s a clash of patterns – stripes and plaids, prints and florals, going against the norm and breaking all the rules.

Q&A

Q: Who is your style icon and why? HENDERSON: Although I am fond of many stylists, such as June Ambrose and Iris Apfel, my inspiration stems from my grandmother, Ella Henderson. She was a fashionable trailblazer who blended her vivacious personality with daring style and grace. I remember when she would let me play dress up in her high heels and costume jewelry. These moments helped shape me to become the stylish woman that I am today. I still have several vintage pieces such has bracelets and hats that I often wear.

Q: Where do you find your clothes and accessories? HENDERSON: I shop in places that you least expect and blending them with modern trends. One of my favorite stores to shop in is Goodwill because they have inexpensive, one-of-a-kind pieces.

Q: Describe your favorite thrifted find? HENDERSON: Authentic, gold, vintage Chanel clip-on earrings that I purchased at an estate sale.

Q: What initially interested you about thrift shopping? HENDERSON: The challenge of creating a retro-inspired look on a budget, with someone’s discarded pieces, to revamp a signature look for myself was invigorating.

Q: What process goes through your mind when styling others? HENDERSON: I always have to be conscious that someone’s style isn’t my own. Remembering to work with what they have first. I love revamping [clients] old pieces to fit today’s new trends and to improve new image expressions.

Q: When styling a client, do you mostly use thrifted pieces or do use the pieces they have? HENDERSON: I prefer to always use what they have first. It’s more cost efficient and saves a lot more money in the long run. Sometimes the person I’m styling just needs to be inspired by a new way to mix and match what’s already in their closet. Its a revamped look on an old favorite piece plus there are a thousands and one ways to wear a shirt.

Q: What are your style secrets? HENDERSON: Layering is essential, combining several necklaces and mixture of bangles produces a bold statement piece.

Q: What article of clothing makes you feel strong?

HENDERSON: Personally, skirts are more flattering for my body type, knowing your body shape is the key to building your confidence.