Misa Hylton is a name synonymous with innovation and style in the fashion industry. Born on January 6, 1974, in Mount Vernon, New York, Hylton has been a trailblazer in the world of fashion, particularly in the hip-hop and R&B scenes. Hylton’s passion for fashion began at a young age. Growing up, she was influenced by her diverse heritage, with a mother of Japanese and Jamaican descent and an African American father1. Her love for hip-hop and fashion led her to envision what artists might wear, a skill that would later define her career. At just 17, Hylton got her start in the fashion industry by assisting on a Jodeci music video. Her then-boyfriend, Sean “Puffy” Combs, who was an A&R intern at the time, invited her to the set. Together, they convinced Uptown Records founder Andre Harrell to let the group members wear combat boots, hoodies, and backwards hats. This marked the beginning of Hylton’s journey as a stylist. Hylton quickly made a name for herself by styling some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B, including Lil’ Kim and Mary J. Blige. Her unique style, often referred to as “hip-hop glamorous,” combined bold, innovative designs with a touch of street style. This approach not only set her clients apart but also influenced fashion trends in popular culture. One of her most iconic creations was the purple jumpsuit and pasty that Lil’ Kim wore to the 1999 VMAs1. Hylton’s work with Lil’ Kim, particularly for the

“Crush on You” video, showcased her ability to blend high fashion with hip-hop aesthetics. Despite her success, Hylton faced numerous challenges as a young woman of color in the fashion industry. The fashion worn by her clients was often labeled as “ghetto fabulous,” a term she redefined as "hip-hop glam". Her perseverance and dedication to her craft eventually earned her recognition and respect in the mainstream fashion world. In addition to her styling work, Hylton founded Chyna Doll Enterprises at the age of 21, providing stylists for video shoots, magazine covers, and public appearances1. By the age of 25, she had made her first million dollars as a stylist1. Misa Hylton’s influence on fashion is undeniable. She has styled a wide range of artists, including Missy Elliott, 50 Cent, La La Anthony, and Terrence Howard1. Her work has been featured in numerous music videos, magazine covers, and red carpet events. Today, Hylton continues to inspire new generations of stylists and designers. She serves as a global creative partner for MCM and was the centerpiece of the 2019 documentary "The Remix: Hip Hop x Fashion"1. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the impact of hip-hop culture on fashion. Misa Hylton’s journey from a young girl with a passion for fashion to a pioneering stylist is a remarkable tale of talent, determination, and vision. Her contributions to the fashion industry have left an indelible mark, and her legacy continues to shape the world of style.