“A Different Me” tour featuring Keyshia Cole, The Dream, Keri Hilson and Bobby Valentino

Exclusive DrJays.com Column By Celebrity Stylist Kesha Mcleod.

Not many stylists take on doing wardrobe on concert tours. The task overlaps a lot of the bigger jobs that they can get or, most often, they simply don’t have the time.

Usually someone is hired to keep up with the clothing and have details in order. Not many people know that there’s a difference between wardrobe personnel and stylists.

When tours already have the themed looks, it’s then up to wardrobe to maintain them (with dancers, band and wardrobe props as well).

For two months I was on the road with R&B stars The Dream and Keyshia Cole on the “A Different Me” national tour and Ne-Yo’s “Year of the Gentleman” international tour. I served as wardrobe for both.

With two and a half weeks on each tour beginning in June, being in and out of tour buses and checking in day rooms at hotels became a daily routine for me.

The head stylist of Ne-Yo’s tour just so happened to be a good friend of mine; fellow stylist Shaneike Peru. On the “A Different Me” tour, stylist Trina Patterson (twitter.com/Life_Stylist) and I maintained wardrobe for The Dream, his band and dancers.

Keyshia Cole

During Ne-Yo’s tour there were at least four different outfit “quick changes” throughout. Ne-Yo and Keri Hilson performed a huge Michael Jackson tribute which was a great close out to the tour!

Ne-Yo

Ne-Yo’s Swarovski crystal gloves and socks were the complete finish to his outfit, which were all done by local London designer Tilly (www.ImperoLondon.com) who provided looks for the last show.

While both were crazy experiences that I would continue to do over and over again, this is not my first time abroad with Ne-Yo. This time I got to experience more countries and cities than before: Ireland, Liverpool and Paris.

I also discovered new shops in Glasgow, Scotland on Buchanan Street.

This was definitely a great experience. Think about it as this: an all expense paid trip to Newcastle, UK or Rock City, Tennessee – which one would you choose? The hours are long, the work is strenuous, but you forget all of that when you’re enjoying what you do.

Follow me (twitter.com/kmcme) as I prepare for the start of football season; getting clients ready for their press conference games and the fourth quarter of music, award shows and more.

Until next time, check out my latest picks below!

FIVE EURO-INSPIRED ITEMS FOR FALL:

Malanga Long Sleeve Woven by Mecca

Skinny Jean by Zoo York

Hatchet Mid by Shmack

Lurex Stretch Jean by Luxirie

Haydin Stiletto by Rocawear

Bookmark to: