Clementina Series: Gina Wolfschoon
Styling, etc. with Gina Wolfschoon
Gina is an emerging fashion stylist, a connoisseur of the Panamanian retail world, and also a muse to Clemente. Since her beginnings in fashion styling, our co-founders have always resonated with Gina’s elevated style, cheerful energy and passionate dedication. After co-hosting a successful trunkshow for our latest collection La Panameña, we invited Gina to share a bit about her journey in the Panama fashion industry and her experience with Clemente.
It’s inspiring to see how your love for fashion shines through your work. Where does your passion come from, and how did you turn it into your career?
Thank you! As a stylist, one of my goals is to inspire others to enjoy fashion more. Fashion has always been my passion, my daily art and de-stress. Dressing up is definitely the highlight of my day.
I think my elegant style comes from my bisabuela Maruca - she had impeccable taste and a sort of elegance that can’t be bought! As a little girl, I used to watch Fashion File with Tim Banks on E! I religiously watched all the runway shows and manifested that someday I would work for Chanel.
My childhood dream became a reality when I was lucky enough to work in the Latin American offices of Chanel in Panama. Today, I work independently as a fashion stylist and personal shopper and my work is my biggest blessing! Being able to work in the field I love is something I am daily grateful for.
Shop Gina’s pañuelos here
Part of your role as a stylist is to curate wardrobes with the best selections of clothing. What does it take for a brand to succeed in offering valuable pieces? Why would you choose a Clemente piece for a client?
I believe every brand needs to offer a top quality product. Don’t settle - look for good fabrics and stellar production. Good design without quality is nothing.
Clemente sources only the best. They combine art with exceptional quality. Their scarfs and sets are made in Italy, their bikinis in Colombia and their linen textiles come from India!
I choose Clemente for their quality, I believe their pieces are timeless and so chic while still being fun and colorful!
With years of experience in styling, what are your signature tips and tricks?
I love the idea of basics with a twist! While shopping I always look for cool design details. Don’t be afraid of investing in colorful pieces - either a purse or shoes in a striking color can instantly elevate your look! Last but not least have fun with fashion and enjoy it! Be true to your personal style and you will shine!
Shop Gina’s blouse here
What is an investment fashion piece everyone should consider?
I think a good watch is an amazing investment that never goes out of style and can easily become a family heirloom. A classic watch is timeless for both men and women. And a treasure the whole family can enjoy!
Shop Gina’s pañuelos here
We were so honored to co-host our new collection’s trunkshow with you. Can you share a bit of what inspired you to collaborate with our brand, and what your experience with Clemente has been like?
I loved every moment of our collaboration! I met Ana Lucia and her mom at the Latin American Fashion Summit, and we instantly clicked. After learning more about the brand, I fell head over heels for Clemente. I was so happy to reconnect with the co-founders in Panama to launch their latest collection La Panameña.
The launching trunkshow was amazing. I particularly loved sharing the brand story with the audience, and Laura’s paintings are gorgeous - Clemente pieces are truly art!
The gorgeous yellow-toned Rana Dorada scarf was a hit with our Brazilian and American customers. Buying a piece from La Panameña collection is taking home a little piece of Panamanian Flora and Fauna - as a Panamanian I was honored to work with a local brand that inspires the world to learn more about our country.
What is your favorite piece of the La Panameña collection, and how would you style it for different occasions?
I loved the whole La Panameña collection! My favorite piece definitely is the lime-green Flora Bambú shirt! I adore the color, fabric and fit! You can dress it up or down! I gave it a new vibe with feathers!
Shop Gina’s blouse here
What is your advice to aspiring fashion stylists?
I am still learning! Fashion Styling was my destiny. I met the amazing makeup artist Alexa Rodulfo here in Panama and she loved my whole look so much that she wanted to buy my Rotate dress. I was so flattered - she works directly with Carolina Herrera and has even done makeup for The Met Gala! (It was the beginning of an aha moment). In a talk she gave, an advice that struck me was “cuando llega la suerte hay que agarrarla y exprimirla”. I took this phrase to heart and pushed myself to finally venture as a fashion stylist.
The next day, a client at my old job offered me the opportunity to renovate her closet. I finally had a backup gig! At that moment, “agarre la suerte” , left my job and started @stylingbygina.
So dear reader and fellow fashion lover, the best advice I can give you is to value yourself and to be confident! Your aha moment can start now if you trust your talent. If luck strikes your way, take it wholeheartedly!