Kimi Ellwein on How Personal Style Can Shape Your Identity

Style Interpreted

Kimi Ellwein grew up in the wide-open spaces of North Dakota, far from the fashion capitals of the world. Yet, even as a young girl, Kimi knew that fashion was more than just clothes—it was a way to express who you are. Today, she’s a sought-after personal stylist who helps others discover their authentic selves through what they wear. “Your personal brand starts with your appearance,” Kimi says, and she believes that style is a powerful tool in shaping how you see yourself and how others perceive you.

Kimi’s upbringing on a sixth-generation farm might seem like an unlikely start for someone who now navigates the fashion scenes of Chicago. But it was there, in the quiet of the countryside, that her creativity took root. “There’s nothing to interrupt you,” she explains. “Your imagination just runs wild.” Surrounded by nature, Kimi developed a deep appreciation for beauty and form, which she now brings to her work in the city.

Despite her rural beginnings, Kimi always knew she was destined for something different. Her parents instilled in her a love for art and culture, taking her on trips to museums and exposing her to different ways of life. This early exposure ignited a passion in her that couldn’t be contained by the small town she grew up in. “I always knew I was going to leave,” she reflects, not out of dissatisfaction, but because her ambitions and curiosities demanded it.

Moving to Chicago was a transformative experience for Kimi. It was here that she began to fully explore and embrace her identity, both in fashion and in life. She describes herself as having “lived many lives,” and her style is a reflection of that evolution. Whether she’s donning a bold, multi-colored dress or a sleek, tailored suit, Kimi’s outfits tell the story of her journey—one of growth, exploration, and self-discovery.

Kimi’s approach to styling others is as thoughtful as her own journey. She understands that not everyone is ready to jump into a bold new look. “It’s usually more of a slow build-up,” she says. She likens the process to sculpting a marble statue, slowly revealing the beauty within. “You start to reveal your beautiful marble statue of what you already knew,” she explains. It’s about taking small steps towards a bigger vision, one that reflects who you are on the inside.

One of Kimi’s recent experiences reminded her of why she loves what she does. A fellow stylist encouraged her to try on a top that was outside her usual style. Initially hesitant, Kimi took a leap of faith and ended up loving the piece. “You saw the vision before I did,” she later told her friend. This experience reinforced Kimi’s belief that sometimes, all it takes is a little push to see yourself in a new light.

In a city like Chicago, where Midwestern values meet urban sophistication, Kimi stands out. She brings a unique perspective to the city’s fashion scene, one that combines the openness of the countryside with the edginess of the city. Her style is both approachable and aspirational, encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and try something new.

Kimi’s philosophy is simple: style is about more than just following trends. It’s about finding what resonates with you and building a wardrobe that reflects your true self. “When you start to have those moments and you actually stop and recognize them, you can start to build your collection,” she advises. Whether it’s a bold print or a classic piece, the key is to choose items that make you feel confident and authentic.

In the end, Kimi believes that personal style is a journey of self-discovery. It’s about trying new things, taking risks, and not being afraid to stand out. “Life is too short to be miserable,” she says. Whether it’s changing careers or trying on a hot pink jacket, Kimi encourages everyone to take that leap of faith. After all, you never know where it might lead.