Dr. Asbasia Mikhail, MD, is a passionate individual who believes that looking and feeling our best ignites a priceless confidence. As a style-minded individual and a busy mom working as an emergency room doctor, Dr. Mikhail faced the challenge of finding time for herself and struggling with post-baby body image. This personal journey led her to create The Stīl Trust, an online platform that connects busy individuals with expert stylists who curate personalized outfits based on their preferences, body shape, and budget.
“The Stīl Trust is about getting you looking and feeling your best while taking the struggle out of figuring out ‘what to wear’,” says Dr. Mikhail. The platform aims to provide confidence in every outfit and empower individuals to showcase their best selves effortlessly.
Dr. Mikhail draws inspiration from various quotes and beliefs that have shaped her approach to life and business. One of her guiding principles is the idea that challenges and hardships are opportunities for growth and character development. She firmly believes that “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” and the silver lining of the pandemic was the chance to critically evaluate her business and identify areas for improvement.
Another quote close to Dr. Mikhail’s heart is, “It’s not how long you live that matters, but how you live that counts.” For her, quality surpasses quantity, which explains her dedication to celebrating individuality and helping people display their best version. She emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and empathy, adhering to the scripture’s directive to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” This philosophy fosters deeper and more meaningful relationships.
Throughout her entrepreneurial journey, Dr. Mikhail has learned valuable lessons that she gladly shares. She highlights the importance of being open to feedback and constructive criticism, as external perspectives can reveal blind spots and lead to significant improvements. She also emphasizes the need to ask for help and seek guidance when necessary, as it can be instrumental in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Adaptability is a trait Dr. Mikhail holds in high regard. To thrive in today’s rapidly changing world, businesses must be willing to pivot and embrace innovation. Staying attuned to customers’ evolving needs and leveraging technological advancements are crucial for remaining relevant and providing exceptional service.
If given the chance to advise her younger self, Dr. Mikhail would encourage her seventeen-year-old self to embrace her unique features, heritage, and individuality. She would emphasize the value of standing out and shining, while also trusting the guidance of her parents. Reminding her younger self that hard work pays off, she would offer reassurance and confidence in the journey ahead.
She sees her platform, The Stīl Trust, as more than just a means to sell products or services. Her goal is to inspire others to live better lives, prioritize self-care, and feel confident in their own skin. By focusing on the physical aspect of wellness, her platform allows individuals to unleash their full potential and be the best version of themselves by showcasing it through their attire.
Looking toward the future, Dr. Mikhail is excited about an upcoming development called the “Closet Refresh” service. This innovative addition to The Stīl Trust will provide members with personalized guidance on their existing wardrobe. They will virtually meet with stylists to receive advice on what to keep, what to discard, and suggestions for essential pieces to enhance their style.
Dr. Asbasia Mikhail, MD, is revolutionizing the world of personal style with The Stīl Trust. Her personal journey and belief in the power of confidence have led her to create a platform that empowers individuals to embrace their unique style and feel their best. Through her influence, she inspires others to prioritize self-care, celebrate individuality, and unlock their full potential.
This article feature is from our annual special edition issue, the L.A. STYLE Magazine Most Influential of 2023.
