Meet Aja Jewel | LGBTQIA+ Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aja Jewel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aja, what are you inspired by?
As a queer, plus-sized individual, I’ve lived firsthand how transformative clothing can be for someone’s confidence and gender expression. My style is all about bold colors, playful patterns, and layers of quirky accessories. But the secret is that every outfit I put together is inspired by the unique individual wearing it. I want to see that instant boost in confidence someone gets when they slip into an outfit that makes them feel seen, celebrated, and unapologetically them.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a love letter to anyone who has ever felt like they don’t fit the traditional mold. I don’t just style clothes. I style confidence, identity, and bold self-expression. Every look is an invitation to take up space and show up as your true self in loud, colorful, and unapologetic ways. It is freedom from the pressure to “fit in”. I believe trends are for everyone, no matter your size, gender, or sexuality.

I started by styling myself. In 2018, I launched a plus-size fashion Instagram that grew into a small, vibrant community focused on body positivity and fashion without rules. I wanted people to realize that clothes are meant to fit us, not the other way around, and style is for everyone. The journey to get here wasn’t easy. It came with self-doubt, learning curves, and plenty of “Can I really do this?” moments. But every step taught me something, and I’ve been lucky to have a community of creatives and wedding vendors in Denver who believed in me and gave me room to grow.

I’ve learned that confidence is built over time. Outfit by outfit. Client by client. I’ve also learned that authenticity attracts the right people and opens doors you didn’t even know existed.

I want the world to know that my brand is a celebration of realness, rebellion, and radiant self-love. Whether it’s a wedding, branding shoot, or creative project, I’m here to style you with intention and heart. If you’re ready to break the rules and dress like your favorite version of yourself, I’m your stylist.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am a Denver native and absolutely love this city. Some of my favorite stops to bring friends are:
• City Park Farmers Market for lavender lemonade, fancy bread, and soaps we absolutely don’t need
• Lunch at Edgewater Public Market, then a stroll around Sloan’s Lake for dog-watching and sunshine
• Shop queer-owned spots like Chroma Denver and Big Gay Pants for bold, body-affirming fashion and good vibes
• Happy hour at Lady Nomada, preferably on the patio with margaritas and endless chips, followed by wandering Old Town Arvada.
• Forbidden Bingo at ‘Bout Time for drag, bingo, and a chance to win prizes you definitely can’t show your mom
• All-you-can-eat joy at Yummy Hot Pot
• Black & Read and The Wizard’s Chest for nerd heaven
• Casa Bonita or Meow Wolf for the true tourist experience

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Oh, where do I even begin? I’ve got so many people to thank.

First and foremost, I want to give a huge shoutout to the queer and plus-size communities. Your radical love, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression are my daily inspiration. You remind me that showing up authentically isn’t just an act of defiance, it’s art.

I also want to show some love to the Denver creative scene. So many wedding vendors, creatives, and entrepreneurs have invited me in, given me freedom, and trusted me to use fashion as a way to amplify their stories and brands. I’ve felt genuinely welcomed and supported, and I’m endlessly grateful for that.

And now, the dramatic spotlight for the woman I wouldn’t be here without: Jennifer Benson of Hitched AF. Jen was the first person in the wedding industry to look at me, someone who had only styled myself and hyped body love on the internet, and say, “You’ve got the sauce. Let’s make magic.” Then gave me complete creative freedom to execute a massive styled shoot. I had never styled other people in my life, and suddenly I was collaborating with a dozen incredible vendors like it was Project Runway meets a queer dream wedding. That moment flipped a switch. Jen didn’t just give me a job, she handed me a freaking cape, and I’ve been flying ever since.

So to everyone who has ever said yes to me while I was still figuring it out, this shoutout is for you. You are the reason I get to do what I love, and I’ll never stop screaming thank you from the rooftops. Because of you, I can use this opportunity to officially launch my brand: Styled to Filth, a Denver-based Styling Studio by me, Aja Jewel!

Instagram: @ajajewel

Other: theajajewel@gmail.com

Image Credits
Personal photo:
@liorakphotography

Portfolio photos:
@o.m._photo
@fromthedaisies
@mckenzie_bigliazzi
@mikaelashootsfilm
@mckenzie_bigliazzi
@katiepuc_photography
@creativebyantonella_weddings
@katiepuc_photography