Marlene Anzaldua is a freelance fashion stylist based in Chicago. Marlene's styling work has been published in print and digitally for magazines including Glamour, L’Officiel, British Vogue, and Harper’s Bazaar.
When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in fashion?
I have had a fascination with fashion, magazines and posing for as long as I can remember. I knew I belonged in the fashion world when my first Cosmo arrived in the mail at age 13—I was so excited.
Back then I had no idea that by the age of 40 I'd be styling photoshoots for Harper's Bazaar, Glamour, Instyle and Vogue.
What inspires you?
I find inspiration in day-to-day activities, scrolling through Pinterest, people watching or in my dreams.
When I am suffering from creative burnout, I take a step back from whatever project I am working on. I can feel myself re-finding what I need just by stepping outside, grounding myself, having a smoke, and becoming one with the elements as I listen, feel and smell the world around me.
How do you want your work to be remembered?
I create fashion under the impression that it is armour against a cold world.
I hope someone in the year 2121 will pick up a look I created and feel compelled to wear it because they want to feel empowered, confident and badass.
Photo credits: Alina Gofman, Lynn Yatti, Ashley Chappell, Polo Gibson, Lori Sapio, and Kinmiar.
Search for the Holy Grail
I have a lot of crazy fashion photoshoot ideas on my bucket list! But top of the list...
Models walking across the Bahrain Desert in search of the Holy Grail of fashion. I'd need a zebra, a camel and a horse—and of course, lots of sand.
I’d love to collaborate with photographer Alina Gofman and fashion designer LaQuan Smith. I admire Alina's drive and her photography style. LaQuan Smith's work is the epitome of fashion for me and I adore all that he creates. I'd want looks that incorporated Haute Couture denim, lots of gold and specks of neon.
I'd want Brianne Pearson, Bella Hadid and Liu Wen to model for me. All three bring the look and attitude that my scorched wasteland needs.
I was inspired to create this shoot by a combination of movies, The Mummy, The Book of Eli, The Devil Wears Prada and then, of course, the Jacquemus 2020 desert fashion show.
Find out more about Marlene's services on her website. Follow Marlene on Instagram for fashion shoot BTS and outfit inspiration.
