Lisa Smedley-Calderon

Lisa Smedley-Calderon is an accomplished Costume Designer and Fashion Stylist with decades of experience spanning the fashion, music, film, and television industries. Raised in Cincinnati by a mother who was a successful fashion model, Lisa developed an early appreciation for fashion and creativity. At 18, she moved to Los Angeles to attend college and pursue a career in fashion, laying the foundation for a diverse career in visual storytelling.

Lisa began her professional journey styling legendary music artists for music videos, red carpets, award shows, and concert tours. Through these experiences, she established lasting relationships with performers, directors, producers, and record label executives while developing a distinctive approach to image creation and visual storytelling. Her work expanded into commercials and personal styling for prominent athletes and high-profile clients, further establishing her versatility across the entertainment industry.

Transitioning into costume design for film and television, Lisa honed her craft under the mentorship of award-winning Costume Designers, developing a strong foundation in cinematic storytelling and technical execution. Her work has contributed to award-winning productions, including a film recognized on the Academy Awards shortlist. Working across contemporary drama, period productions, and stylized narratives, she brings authenticity, emotional depth, and a thoughtful understanding of character to every project.

Central to Lisa's creative philosophy is the belief that costume design offers audiences insight into a character's identity, history, and emotional journey. Her approach combines a respect for the director's vision with an instinctive understanding of how clothing communicates character, creating memorable and meaningful visual narratives.

Beyond her work in costume design and styling, Lisa is committed to mentorship, education, and professional community building. As a Co-Founder and Executive Board Member of the International Society of Black Costume Designers (ISBCD), she supports the organization's mission to foster community, mentorship, and opportunities for costume professionals worldwide. She is also a member of the Costume Designers Guild (CDG), Black Design Collective, 100 Healthy Women, and ForbesBLK. Lisa regularly mentors emerging wardrobe stylists and costume designers, speaks at colleges and educational programs, and remains an advocate for health and wellness.
Website: fashionstylingbylisa.com