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Chicago’s Trendsetter: Chavalier Gilmore on Fashion, Beauty and Motherhood

Photo by Dominique B @pearlsncurls

We are thrilled to share an insightful conversation with a style icon whose impeccable fashion sense and authentic approach to beauty inspires many. As a dedicated mother of three which includes a set of twins, she navigates the demands of motherhood with grace and uses her platform to promote positive messages about beauty, style and the very relatable truths of being a mom. Her journey through modeling, collaborations with top brands like Dyson Hair, and her unique style tips for busy moms are nothing short of inspiring. Here’s a glimpse into her world and how she balances her thriving career with her role as a mom.

Your style is often described as impeccable. How do you approach fashion and beauty, and what inspires your unique sense of style?

I want to first say thank you for having me. I approach fashion in the mood of motherhood. My kids inspire my style. I try to be a blueprint for my daughter and my sons. My daughter won’t know what’s appropriate unless I show her. My son’s won’t understand how to be fashionable themselves, or around girls, if they’re sheltered. I do what makes me feel good but dress in ways I wouldn’t mind seeing my daughter in ,when she comes of age, or my son’s partner if I met them. I don’t want any of my children to be “thirsty” , or aggressive, because they see a little skin. Showing them what to do and how to do it with grace is always the goal. If something is too short they watch me change my outfit, if I’m too exposed they ask me questions and I give them honest answers.

Balancing motherhood with a thriving career can be challenging. How do you manage to stay stylish and put together while juggling the responsibilities of being a mom to twins?

That’s a good question because I’m still figuring it out myself lol. I know what it’s like to be a single mother. The fact that I have an amazing husband helping to care for our twins is a blessing. I never want to take it for granted but it’s rough you know? Fashion is my part of my outlet actually. I refuse to be tired and frumpy. I even joke about it on many of my reels about motherhood on my instagram.

As a prominent figure in the Chicago social scene, how do you use your platform to promote positive messages about beauty and style?

Being as authentic as possible. When I share beauty collabs I also share my true perspective on the products vs just posting them. I never tell someone they should buy it because I’m using it, instead I give my skin details and say “if you’re similar to me this can work for you”. When it comes to style I showcase how I’d wear and share my sizes. I do a lot of comedic style reels (for fashion) which make styling more relatable to moms or not mom. I talk about what I’m about to do or what I’m going to do as to why I’m wearing the look or how I plan to wear it in the future.

Congratulations on your partnership with Dyson Hair! Can you share with us how this collaboration came about and what it means to you?

I’m actually signed to The Rock Agency so it was actually a modeling gig vs influencer based. However it meant I was really on to something and making a mark in my modeling career. I had boxes I wanted to check off and the fact that I own their vacuum and was chosen for the hair dryer was insane! My modeling/acting career career has really been a highlight of my 30s!

Your Instagram feed is filled with stunning photos showcasing your fashion-forward outfits. Can you share one style tip for busy moms looking to elevate their everyday looks?

You feel good when you look good! Do you have to have the most exclusive piece on? Absolutely not. Choosing the outfit that fits you vs the outfit that drags you will help you get through an already stressful day. Instead of going for the short and baggy sweats, I look for fun loungewear that gives me comfort but doesn’t make me feel like I’m a slave to my kids and their environment. Don’t be a fashion slave to your environment! When your kids see you happy they’re even happier! They have someone to look up to and admire for more than just the standard health & home care we show them.

What advice would you give to aspiring models and fashion enthusiasts who want to make a mark in the industry while also balancing their personal lives?

Be yourself! I know it’s cliche but I used to say that too! I’ve shifted my modeling genres, got signed, and now dabbling into the influencer space I’ve learned that as long as people liked me they loved whatever I did. Never give too much access as you’re stepping your foot into the door. The mistakes I made as a model by shooting with others just to be seen bit me later when I realized the photographer wasn’t actually the bomb, I just wasn’t exposed to the right spaces. Learn about your craft network in the correct spaces and the experience will come. Models shoot with photographers, who work with agency models, to begin your career. Working with anyone who has a camera isn’t going to get you paid. Working with those already familiar in the space will. Connections are important but always remember you can also, one day ,be the connection. . .BE YOURSELF!


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