Today on Dress Code, we're exploring stage looks and more with a young woman who helps get the party started and the people on their feet—Callista Clark. I first met Callista, a big-time country music talent from small-town Zebulon, Georgia on the road for The "After" Party Tour in the Country Music Capital of the World, naturally. Callista attended our 70s Cowgirl-themed Nashville dinner—co-hosted by (her) stylist extraordinaire, Tiffany Gifford—and put on a performance that had the crowd, myself included, dazzled and dancing along.
Read on for what inspires Callista's looks on and off the stage, and a sneak peek into the artist-stylist dynamic with Tiffany Gifford.
How would your best friend describe your style?
I think my best friends would describe my style as vintage, comfortable, in control and creative.
What does your “getting ready” process look like before a show?
I listen to super loud music. It’s usually something rock and roll or something live so I can hear an audience.
How do you use clothing as a tool for self-expression when performing?
When I’m on stage I wear outfits that make me feel strong, confident, and powerful. For me, fashion is a way to introduce myself to people however I want and when I’m performing, I want to be taken seriously. What better way to do that than to show up in a killer outfit with some amazing shoes?
For me, fashion is a way to introduce myself to people however I want and when I'm performing, I want to be taken seriously.
Callista Clark
What piece from your wardrobe is the most sentimental to you and why?
I think I would have to say my granddaddy’s worn out, grey denim Levi’s jacket from the 80s. He gave it to me a year ago and it’s been my favorite piece since then. It has stains on it and probably hasn’t been washed since the day he bought it, and I plan on keeping it that way.
What makes for a perfect stage look?
I like to wear something that looks different. Whether it’s a super cool pair of vintage looking platform shoes, sparkly boots, a fringe jacket, or some bell bottom jeans. I love a good throwback look.
Who are your style icons?
I really love the way Lauren Daigle, Joss Stone, Stevie Nicks, and Lainey Wilson dress.
What's it like working with Tiffany Gifford?
Tiffany is incredibly talented, and she has my dream job if I wasn’t an artist. I go to her apartment and there are just racks of gorgeous clothes for me to try, and I get to pick what I want to wear to my show. When you put on the right thing, you know.
Fill in the blank:
If the dress code is casual, I’m wearing straight leg jeans from the 90s and a cropped band T-shirt with Dr. Martens.
If the dress code is festive, I’m wearing an amazing pair of flare jeans, a simple top, and a great pair of platforms.
If the dress code is black-tie, I’m wearing something new and sparkly with a vintage, thrifted vibe.
