Lessons in Wisdom, Style and Confidence from Reah Norman - A Chick Who Rules

I admit at times I want to be Taylor Swift. Not just because she is wicked tall with legs that go past my neck, or a great musician or because she seems like cool people. Truthfully, it’s because she’s got a killer Girl Squad. Ever heard that expression? Imagine a group of awesome, kickass women with whom you have shared goals and with whom you see eye to eye. Do you have people in your life like that? If you do, keep them around! That’s  your Girl Squad. I met Reah in 2010 as I was just entering the plus fashion industry. Like all professionals, we’ve gone through ups and downs but we’ve always to come together like smart, talented chicks to work through the tough when the tough get going.  She’s hard working, full of integrity and someone I’m stoked to call part of my professional Girl Squad! Xo Sarah

Photo by Nichole Alex

We're continuing my Chicks Who Rule series by getting up close and personal with women you should know about. Sharing honest lessons and keeping it real so that YOU can learn directly from them!

Reah Norman has a truly multidimensional and accomplished career within the plus industry.

On top of that, she’s just plain awesome. A fashion expert, editorial director and digital influencer, you’ve most certainly seen her work before. She’s worked with leading plus fashion brands and celebrities and is recognized for her killer work as a stylist for editorial and e-commerce. With her blog, StyleByReah, she delivers daily inspiration, showcases her own plus size style and shares her knowledge to create fashion awesomeness.

1) If you could go back in time and talk to yourself 10 years ago, what advice would you give based on what you know now?

I think about this a question a lot. I would tell myself to save more money, work harder to maintain your friendships, have more confidence to dive in to things that scare you, and take no shit from anyone!

2) If you could travel forward in time and talk to yourself 10 years from now, what advice would you give yourself? 

Keep yourself in balance and don’t take life so seriously. It all works out in the end for the greater good!

3) What does "confidence" mean to you?

Genuinely loving myself just as I am today, making no apologies for who I am inside and out, and not needing anyone else’s approval or validation to feel good about myself.

Photo by Nichole Alex

4) How do you feel about your body just as it is TODAY?

TODAY I feel good about my body because I am taking better care of myself now than I ever have in my life and I see the benefits of that.  I am taking a more spiritual and natural approach to my health and just eliminating negative food, thoughts and people from my life, and including more positive and natural practices.  Health is a personal, never-ending journey for all of us.

5) What is the one item of clothing you simply could not do without?

The stylist in me could never narrow it down to just one, so I will give you three… my skinny jeans, a comfy cardigan, and an A-line dress.

6) What was is the best style advice you ever received? The one best piece of style advice you would give to someone?

The best style advice I have received is something that I tell all of my clients- you have to know the rules before you can break them. Know your body type and what works best for you, and then make your style decisions, even if that means throwing all the rules out the window.

Photo by Nichole Alex

Find Reah online here:

And also on her websites! www.styledbyreah.com / www.reahnorman.com