Styled with Purpose: Women Who Inspire – Featuring Samantha Stewart of Style of Sam
Today, we’re thrilled to feature Samantha Stewart, Chief Glam Officer of Style of Sam in our "Styled with Purpose: Women Who Inspire" series, where we spotlight dynamic women making waves in their communities and industries. These incredible women share their unique journeys, style philosophies, and how KAHINDO empowers them.
What drew you to the KAHINDO piece you're wearing, and how does it reflect your unique style?
I LOVE the Sao Tome dress bc it’s simple in the silhouette but beautiful and intricate in the pattern. It’s bold enough to stand on its own but also plays really well with other pieces! I love versatile pieces like this because they are like us - women who have to wear so many hats.
How do you use fashion as a tool for self-expression and empowerment?
I wanted to be an artist growing up, but that was not allowed by my parents. LOL! Asian parents - IYKYK! So I channel that creativity into getting dressed. Clothing is so much FUN, and also it’s powerful. Many people think it’s frivolous, but it affects the way you think about yourself and behave. It’s like an invisible armor that gives me confidence!
Can you share a challenge you’ve overcome that has shaped your journey as an inspiring woman?
I’ve had a couple of challenges along the way, but one of the biggest struggles was within myself. I kept living for “someone else” like who my parents wanted me to be. Even though I love being a pharmacist, FASHION is something that I’m extremely passionate about and really affects how women show up in the world. Once I let go of the “shoulds”, it’s been very freeing and empowering to help other women look, feel, and do good. It’s a beautiful ripple effect.
Who has been a key influence or mentor in your life, and how have they impacted you?
My mother doesn’t like for me to talk about her, but she is an amazing example of courage and resilience. She was pregnant with me and didn’t finish high school, but she leveraged her sewing skills and started her own business when we were young. My father passed, and she was taking care of me and my two younger brothers. At first, it was alterations, and now, she has a successful Custom Drapery workroom. She is very modest, but she is such a strong woman.
What message or legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of women?
My mission is to educate and inspire women to be confident in the best versions of themselves so that they can look, feel, and do good.
Remember: YOU are POWERFUL, and YOU are BEAUTIFUL.
