Hat by ESENSHEL
Top by 2xist
Pants by AAKASHA

Ty Hunter, a Houston born and raised is a fashion stylist, and something of career chameleon in that he worked in medical sales, retail, and eventually celebrity styling. Over many years, he climbed his way up the career ladder and made a name for himself as a big-name stylist in the industry. Hunter has had the pleasure of dressing a slew of celebs, most notably having an 18-year career styling, arguably the most powerful entertainer in the world, Beyoncé. He has worn many hats over his career, and now it seems it’s time to put on a new one: Author. We most excitingly wait to delve into the story behind his new book, Makeover from Within: Lessons in Hardship, Acceptance, and Self-Discovery (2022).

**Left:**
Coat by YANGA
INSECT Nose Jewel by Shō Konishi
**Right:**
Kimono by Rossi

How did you become a stylist?
I feel like I’ve always been one. It’s in my DNA. The root of it started with thrifting with my Grandmother and Great Grandmother. I was the guy at a young age to whom friends and family went to for looks.

What's the best advice you would you give to anyone who wants to become a stylist?
Just go for it. Build your portfolio on your website or social media platform to display your talents.

Can you provide a synopsis on what your new book is about?
LIFE. Lessons in hardship, acceptance, and self-discovery. The book goes through not only what I went through but all the relatable things that happen to everyone in life. I hope I gave a positive outcome to sometimes negative situations.

**Left:**
Top by ha | za | ma
Tank top by 2xist
Pants by Akobi men
INSECT Choker by Shō Konishi
**Right:**
Vintage Top by Yves Saint Laurent
Pants by HEIKE

Who and what inspired you to write the book?
I’ve always wanted to get my story out to let people know the road isn’t straight. You have to go through trials and tribulations, hills, valleys and mountains to get where you are going.

How long did it take for you to write your book from start to finish?
It was a four-five-year process. During the lockdown, it required a big push to focus on this. However, it gave me the time to complete some things I had on the back burner.

What has the process of publishing your book been like for you?
It has been a journey but at the end of the day the love you put into it is equal to the love you get out of it.

**Left:**
Tank Top by 2xist
INSECT Nose Jewel by Shō Konishi
**Right:**
Hat by ESENSHEL
Top by 2xist
Pants by AAKASHA
Shoes by YANGA

What did it personally mean to you to have Beyonce and Tina Knowles be contributors to your book?
It’s always good to get support from family, friends, and people you admire. It’s truly a blessing.

What would you say was the most difficult part of becoming an author?
The struggle is to find focus. Once the ball is in motion, it’s all about just getting to the finish line.

Is the anything new you've learned about yourself during the writing process?
Being that I have never been in therapy, it was a beautiful process learning more about myself through the writing. It became my therapy as well as my healing.

Top by ha | za | ma
Tank top by 2xist
Pants by Akobi men

For whom did you write this book?
I wrote it for anyone who needs that push or inspiration to know that they can make it though and be anything they want to be. Do not give up on yourself. No matter what you can make it!

What was the most enjoyable part about writing your book?
Receiving the flowers from the many people I admire and love who contributed to the book. I appreciate all the kind words that were not only sent to me but lent to me for the book.

What has been the best performance of your career so far?
Me stepping out on faith and not being afraid to try new things or things outside of what I’m known for.

Coat by YANGA
INSECT Nose Jewel by Shō Konishi

Which part of your job do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy the smiles on clients' faces when I know they not only look their best but feel their best both inside and out.

What's the main lesson you hope people take away from reading your book?
No matter what’s in your way, you can still move forward to your destination. Keep going, don’t give up, and always believe in yourself.

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Sean P. Watters
Talent: Ty Hunter
Fashion Stylist: Mario Solares
Assistant Fashion Stylist: Janae Mitchell
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Lily Nawfor, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine