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An abundant and radiant girl boss - Bukunmi Grace is slaying the fashion and music scene here in LA. Born in Nigeria, raised in Chicago and is now residing here in the beautiful city of angels – the creative playground of the world. Bukunmi’s photos have been featured in a plethora of publications including Elle, Playboy, Nylon, Complex, Highsnobiety, Cosmopolitan and the New York Times. Her styling roster includes NoMBe, Martin Garrix and Krewella to name a few but you can read more about that below.
Grace recently came into my life here in LA and I'm ever so grateful. We actually had met via email about 4 years ago but the project we were supposed to work on never fell through. Then she slid into the DMs via the gram, we met at Coffee Commissary on Fairfax, and instantly became friends. We've already worked on a few creative projects together and will continue to for sure in the future – I love this girl. A woman of many talents and titles including stylist, photographer, creative director, journalist and song writer. Grace is the epitome of a well-rounded creative.
Her poised yet laid back and humble demeanor, her positive energy, her beautiful open mind, her loving aura, her consistent work ethic, her genuine soul, her fiery passion - this woman is truly inspiring.
Read on below to get to know more about this boss babe and make sure to follow her on Instagram for more : @bukunmigrace
Aaaand here are some photos of Grace I took last week at my apartment and then also on set for a Krewella photoshoot.
Welcome to the club, fam. <3
Bukunmi is wearing the Flamingo Lingo scarf which you can shop here.
Tell us about how you got started as a photographer and stylist.
I got started photographing events, models and products. Then I began photographing and styling my friends look books, campaigns and anything I could to practice. I found a better way to share and document my ideas through editorials and began doing that in addition to fashion and portraiture. There’s still variety in my work but everything exists in the realm of music and fashion.
How did you discover what you wanted to do?
I’ve been into design, fashion, style, music and art for as long as I can remember. I spent most of my summers in middle school at the library reading about artists like Alexander McQueen and Coco Chanel. When I got to college, I got involved with cultural programming, designers, fashion shows, local boutiques etc. that made me realize I was passionate about creating powerful images and providing the right look.
What have been some of your favorite projects and why?
One of my favorite projects was working with Krewella for a Playboy feature. The idea came to fruition very naturally and the entire day was such a dream. I especially love on-location shoots. I had the opportunity to do an dual feature story for Elle Magazine in South Africa a few years ago. Gave me the chance to explore Cape Town and Johannesburg. In the states, one of my favorite shoots was an ode to 70’s feminism politics for Galore last Fall. We released the pro-Hillary images election day anticipating the best.
Favorite person you’ve styled and/or photographed?
Styling wise, love working with Jahan and Yasmine Yousaf, we come up with fun looks together. For Krewella’smusic video for “TEAM”, Jahan let me cut her Pakistan Cricket Jersey into a crop top and Yasmine brought some Jhumkas which we paired with a custom jersey.
As for photography, one of my favorites was Vanessa Simmons. She was such a pleasure and was kind enough to bring Bottega Louie on set. I also enjoyed photographing Barbie Nox, Kacy Hill, Michael Bastian, Karlie Kloss and Young Paris… to name a few.
What’s the most fun part of what you do?
I love meeting new people, creating with incredible talent and turning sets into playgrounds.
Any movies, books or people that have inspired you?
I’m into The Tipping Point by Malcom Gladwell, Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur and constantly inspired by Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty.
Top 3 style icons?
Iris Apfel
Grace Jones
Grace Kelly
Music you have on repeat right now?
NoMBe, Beach House, Vince Staple, Young, Migos and Tchaikovsky.
Favorite places to shop in LA? Opening Ceremony
Favorite item in your closet? I have a leather jacket that
I wore when the night I met Erykah Badu in Chicago. I left
the security clearance sticker on it so it looks raw.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received from a mentor or colleague?
You never get what you don’t ask for.
Any advice for the creatives? Create as often as possible and with good intention.
