Guest post by Emelia Castro

There are so many different roads one can travel when deciding to start their own business. My road was an interesting one. After getting into a car accident while going to college, I was forced to drop out and redirect everything I thought my life was going to be. 

Once I recovered, I entered the world of fashion. I started modeling for a local company and was really enjoying myself. But modeling wasn’t for me, and after having a mental breakdown in a fashion closet, I noticed something. I noticed that clothes made me happy, calmed me down, and brought me a peaceful feeling. I loved fashion and the world I was in, so I decided to stay and change my path. I started modeling less and less and started working on making my own clothes more and more. 

I watched YouTube videos, took online courses, and read so many articles trying to learn as much as I could about styling and design. And after a year of learning and busting my butt, I created my very own company called Freakish Clothing. 

Now it all sounds short and sweet, I know that. But the journey isn’t over yet. In the past 2 years I have started a company, begun styling clients, produced photo shoots and fashion shows, and conquered much more than I ever thought possible. And it keeps on going.

But one thing is for sure: I would never have done any of that if I hadn’t pushed through the horrible, slow, painful times. If I hadn’t swallowed my pride and asked for help when I didn’t know what I was doing. If I hadn’t put on my big girl panties and showed up to the big boys’ table confident as ever. 

Being the owner of a small business and being the one to start multiple endeavors means everything to me. Those ventures are like children to me, and I know others out there with small businesses know exactly what I’m talking about. It is a way for me to channel my creative side, a way for me to make something with my hands. I love making people feel something.

And yes, I am aware that clothes are not a necessity in our world. But making yourself feel good is okay. Loving how you look in an outfit is okay. And I feel like it is my job to help people realize that. One of the biggest things I stress to people is to wear whatever the f**k you want. Who cares what others think? Who cares what others have to say? I want women to buy that bold top, buy those low rise jeans when you are unsure of how your tummy looks — just do it. And never look back because it will make you feel like a million dollars, I promise you. 

So this is why I do what I do. This is why I make crazy garments and style women in all sorts of ways. Because I strive to make someone love themselves more than they did the day before. My small business is more than clothes, it’s about self love. If you are looking to start your own venture, no matter what it may be, make sure it’s not just because of money. Make sure it’s because something in your soul is telling you to.

About the author: Emelia Castro is a 21-year-old stylist and designer based in Denver, Colorado. She owns her own company called Freakish Clothing, which was founded December 2019, and she also styles clients with her style boxes. Emelia has been featured in magazines such as Lohi Lifestyle Magazine and Voyage Denver and has produced her own fashion show called Protest America. You can find Emelia on Instagram @emeliathestylist.