Koko Dubuisson, a first-generation Haitian American, was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. As a devoted mother to her vibrant eight-year-old daughter, Koko navigates the complexities of motherhood while pursuing her passions in nursing and fashion.
Her journey into fashion began with a simple piece of advice from her mother: “Dress to impress, because your outfi t is going to be the very fi rst impression on anyone before you even get to talk.” This early encouragement sparked Koko’s love for fashion, leading her to develop a unique style characterized by an architectural approach. She carefully selects each piece for its structure and form, favoring designs with bold lines and unique silhouettes.
Koko has embraced recent fashion trends, particularly the bold use of red, which she initially hesitated to incorporate into her wardrobe. Starting with a pair of red shoes, she gradually fell in love with the color and now boasts multiple red pieces, often pairing them with animal prints for an added fl air. As a stylist, Koko emphasizes that the key to a standout look lies in understanding shape, architecture, and texture. “Confidence is what truly makes any outfit stand out; it’s the attitude that pulls everything together,” she states.
Balancing her nursing career with her passion for fashion and content creation, Koko finds ways to integrate her personal style into her professional life. She opts for versatile clothing that transitions seamlessly from the office to her weekends. Working as a nurse investigator, she focuses on protecting Medicare patients from scams, a role that allows her to express her creativity while fulfilling her commitment to care.
Her dual careers reflect her belief that each can fuel the other. The confidence she derives from her fashion choices enhances her nursing practice, while her experiences in nursing bring a unique perspective to her styling. Koko draws inspiration from various sources, including sci-fi and anime, as well as notable figures like stylist Law Roach and designers such as Daveed Baptiste and Rachel Scott.
Despite the challenges of juggling two distinct careers, Koko has learned to prioritize and organize her time effectively. She creates content at the start of her workday and utilizes her three days of remote work to film videos and respond to her audience after her daughter goes to bed. This duality keeps her motivated and inspired, as she embraces both passions without the need to choose between them.
Looking to the future, Koko envisions advancing her career in health policy or transitioning into fashion full-time as a stylist or costume designer. “Confidence is key, and embracing your individuality will always set you apart,” she advises those aspiring to make their mark in fashion. With her unique blend of experiences and dedication, Koko Dubuisson continues to inspire others to explore their passions and express their true selves.