If you know Aventura Mall, you know we’re passionate about culture, style, and taste. We continuously expand on all the above – but we have to say, we really kick style up a notch. We have added more luxury fashion houses and pop-ups, several coveted, trendsetting retailers like Aritzia, Mango, and Ganni; and first-to-market launches, including Nike Rise’s first North American store and Lacoste’s first new flagship in Florida.

With great style choices come great responsibility … to help our clients look and feel their best! That said, we’re thrilled to share more about “The Stylist” – Aventura Mall’s styling program, complete with our very own Styling Suite and resident stylist. The Stylist provides one-to-one premier services that foster relationships with our loyal guests and connect them with our array of luxury and fashion brands.

Our beautiful Styling Suite is located on the third level of the Nordstrom wing across from Equinox. This personalized, private space includes a lounge area, fitting rooms, and other amenities to make the experience relaxing and enjoyable.

The Stylist is led by Kimmie Sussman, who has vast experience in the fashion industry and now styles clients in London, New York and Miami. Her impressive portfolio includes music videos, television commercials, print advertisements, editorials, runway shows and live appearances. Her client list is highlighted by Serena Williams, A Rod and The Marleys.

We sat down with Kimmie for a Q&A to ask her about her background, experiences in the fashion industry and (what else?) style:

What is your first fashion memory?
In my parents’ boutique in New York. It was my second home and it’s where I developed my love for clothing.

How did you get started in this business?
I grew up in retail, but it wasn’t until I moved to L.A. in my twenties when I decided to work at the “IT” Santa Monica boutique, when it took off. It felt exciting to be back in fashion. I remember asking a lot of questions when stylists came in to do pulls.

Tell us what got you this far in your career.
Hard work, a lot of hustle and all the mistakes I’ve made along the way. I never really assisted, so I learned on the job. The best step for aspiring stylists is to assist established stylists.

How would you describe the difference between style and fashion?
Having style is about your own aesthetic; not following trends but having your own vibe. Those into fashion are dressing according to current trends.

What is your own style and how do you separate it from what you offer your clients?
My style is kind of my own. I go with my flow and literally get ready in minutes. It’s my knack; I just pull it off. For clients, I tune into them. I wonder who they are, I consider their lifestyle and body type. No two people are alike, and I like to celebrate individuality.

Tell us about the “shop your closet” concept and how you handle a client who has everything?
I like to shop clients’ closets. I even encourage my celebrity clients to do it. Everyone should have their best basics in their wardrobe armory; pieces they feel best in. These pieces can be paired with new, fun and exciting options. When a client has a lot of pieces, but loves fashion and shopping, I use the “buy one, purge one” method.

Give us some examples of classics every person should have.
A timeless coat, blazer, white button-down made from cotton or silk, a perfect pair of blue jeans (with no
holes), black turtleneck, black and neutral slacks, little black dress, sleek boot, pointed heels and, of
course, a gorgeous handbag.

Do you approach dressing women differently than men?
Definitely. For most men, their first requirement is comfort. Women often will endure some discomfort for fashion. I never heard a woman say, “My feet felt amazing after a night in heels!”

How do you overcome some of the fashion challenges you are faced with?
The hardest challenge is teaching people to not overthink getting dressed. I have a rule. If you’re on the fence about buying something, then it’s a hard “no.” Move on. People know when they feel good in something. My job is to teach them how to tune into that voice. That’s how we build their style.

If you were to suggest one “must have” from Hermès, Givenchy, Burberry and Balenciaga what would you pick?
o Hermès: Mini Kelly
o Givenchy: Shark Lock Cowboy Boot
o Burberry: Cropped Cotton Trench Coat
o Balenciaga: Pantaleggings