Ty Hunter is best known for styling Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child, having created and reinvented signature looks over the years that became memorable fashion moments. The self-proclaimed “country boy from Texas” always knew he had a greater purpose beyond his humble upbringing, and he took risks to pave his road to success.  Although his creative passions have taken him around the world and down the most sought-after red carpets and sold-out performances, Hunter has now retreated from fashion styling and segued into the role of an entrepreneur. He is doing it all his way!

How did you get your start as a celebrity stylist?

I had an epiphany one day at work. I was employed in the medical field in Austin, Texas, working for a company that manufactured heart valves.  A close friend of mine and I were in the dressing rooms preparing for work, and I noticed a scar on his chest. I asked him about it, and he shared it was a heart valve. Even though I was making heart valves for humans, at that moment, I gained a true perspective about life and realized I needed to follow my dreams. I took a hiatus from my medical career, packed my car, moved to Houston and started working for the retailer Bui Yah Kah. Ms. Tina [Knowles, mother to Beyoncé and Solange] would come in the store frequently to dress Destiny’s Child and we began to establish a relationship. She became my client and what I would like to call my “other mother.” She knew I had a knack for great style and told me, “I’m going to get you out of here one day,” and she did! As fate would have it, within weeks I was styling the Survivor video and the Grammys. The rest is history.

What is the biggest misconception of the role of a celebrity stylist?

I think people see the final project and do not realize the sacrifices and compromises you have to make. I’ve missed birthdays and special moments with my daughter, and family life. You give your life to this craft, and people see the red carpet and performances and think “I want to be a celebrity stylist!” It’s a lot of hard work, sleepless nights, sacrificing days and months on end.

What is the greatest reward of being a celebrity stylist?

Recognition. Your hard work begins to pay off and all eyes are on you. It becomes more challenging if you are a regular stylist because celebrity stylists are always in the spotlight.

Is there any fashion tip or look you inspired that Beyoncé continues to incorporate in her wardrobe to this day?

My favorite is to see her dress down, like what we did for the Crazy in Love video – a regular tank top, jean shorts and a pump. I love that look. She’s always so glamorous, so to see her strip down into something the kids can emulate… I love those moments!

If you could do anything differently, what would it be?

I wouldn’t do anything differently. My life was by design and I have no regrets. My past makes me who I am today.

Talk to me about your latest collaborations and endeavors. What’s next for Ty Hunter?

I’ve recently collaborated with Hyundai and Korean designer Youn Hee Park of Greedilous to create a capsule collection. The collection, Palisade, pays homage to its coastal community roots in Los Angeles. I also design the bags for Greedilous during Seoul Fashion Week. Fashion will always be my baby, but my passion is motivational speaking.

You’ve transitioned from the Fashion World, to motivational speaking, how did that opportunity come to pass?

I withdrew from fashion three-and-a-half years ago to work on my own projects. I created my Ty light, emojis, and clothing line; I stepped back from the role of stylist to become a designer. During the process of it all, my business partner and I came up with “Let’s Talk,” as I was sought after for advice through my social media platforms. I wanted to travel with it and really be able to touch those interested in fashion and speak on the good and bad of it all in a very translucent and raw pretense.

Where do you see yourself five years from now? Where would you like to be?

I would just like to be alive and healthy. The goal is to be financially stable, so I can take care of my family.

I want to travel and live life to the fullest. Tomorrow is not promised, so to be here in five years is a blessing in itself.

What advice would you give to an emerging stylist, interested in explicitly becoming a celebrity stylist?

Of course everyone wants to jump on the Beyoncés, the Rihannas, and the Gagas…all the top girls, but you also have your neighborhood superstars. Start there and let your work speak for itself, and do not give up on yourself. I am a country boy from Texas who had a dream and a vision. Just stay humble, be faithful, and do not give up on your dream. You can do it!