GRAFTON — For Rebekah Bryan, fashion isn’t just about clothes; it’s about confidence and a sense of transformation.
Through her business, Styled with a Twist, Bryan guides clients to create a personal style that fits who they are and what they do, making getting dressed one less thing to worry about.
Bryan launched the business in 2019 after attending a creative conference as an author.
“They were talking about streams of income and finding other ways to help people,” she said.
At first, she considered offering editing services but realized that many authors she met could benefit from styling help.
“I’ve sat behind tables at book fairs trying to sell my books,” she said. “I thought, authors could use a stylist.”
That idea turned into a side venture, The Author Stylist, focused on helping writers look and feel confident at conferences and signings. As her reputation grew, so did her clientele. Bryan soon began working with entrepreneurs, business professionals and women navigating life transitions.
Eventually, she decided the business’s name needed a refresh. After experimenting with branding ideas, she landed on Styled with a Twist, a nod to her love of lemons.
“Anyone who knows me knows I’ll be wearing something with lemons or have lemon decor,” she said. “I just wanted something fun and fresh.”
Today, Bryan’s work includes closet clean-outs, personal shopping and virtual styling sessions for those who need outfit inspiration or a full wardrobe refresh. Many come to her after a major life change, whether it be a new job or a big move.
“I take away the stress of getting dressed,” she said. “I give outfit ideas and make sure they have pieces that make it one less decision in their day.”
She also helps clients build what she calls a “style brand,” a consistent, recognizable look that aligns with their goals. For entrepreneurs and public-facing professionals, it can make a true difference.
“It’s about showing up confidently and consistently,” she said. “If your clothes fit you well and make sense for where you’re going, you’re already most of the way there.”
Bryan’s most popular services are closet cleanouts and outfit guides, though she also shops in person with clients when needed. Packages range from onetime event styling to ongoing wardrobe support.
One of her favorite success stories came from a writer’s conference where she met an author who felt completely out of place in leggings and sneakers. After a shopping trip, Bryan helped her find outfits that reflected her fantasy writing. A few weeks later, the author sent photos from a book fair.
“She looked amazing,” Bryan said. “She stood out and sold more books that day than before.”
Bryan also uses Styled With a Twist as a way to share her belief that fashion should be approachable and sometimes a bit unexpected. For example, in a Facebook video, Bryan encouraged women to rethink wearing all black and embrace colors as a form of self expression.
“People default to black because it feels safe or ‘professional,’” she said. “But colors mean something. Clothes should say something about who you are.”
Bryan encourages clients to start with fit and appropriateness first, what she calls “the 99% rule.” If clothes fit well and make sense for the setting, everything else, from color to accessories, falls into place. A great necklace or cool shoe, she adds, can elevate a simple outfit into something special. The pandemic forced Bryan to recalibrate her approach as fashion expectations changed. Early on, she mainly focused on event styling. Then, when in-person gatherings vanished, she pivoted to helping clients with their Zoom wardrobes. Today, her focus is on helping women balance comfort and professionalism in an increasingly hybrid world.
Bryan’s work is also felt across the community. One of her proudest efforts is the annual clothing swap event benefiting Family Sharing of Ozaukee County. Hosted at Ember Social in Grafton, the event invites folks to bring clothing to exchange, with leftover items donated to charity.
“It was such a great event, and we’re doing it again this year,” she said.
Looking ahead, Bryan hopes to continue expanding her reach through workshops, boutique partnerships and speaking engagements. She wants to collaborate with local stores to connect women with new shopping options and host more educational events about personal branding and wardrobe strategy.
“I just want to help more women,” she said. “It’s really about helping them see themselves differently.”
Whether she’s working with authors, executives, or stay-at-home moms, Bryan says the result she values most is when clients rediscover their confidence.
“I’d call it a transformation,” she said. “Confidence, consistency, ease. That’s what it’s all about.”
More information is available on www.styledwithatwist.com and on the Styled with a Twist Facebook page.
Rebekah Bryan’s top 5 style tips
1. Fit is most important. 2. Know the dress code. Appropriateness is key. 3. Consider using color. Black is not always best. 4. Plan your outfit in advance to relieve stress. 5. Use accessories to jazz up a plain outfit.