Zerina Akers has dressed some of the most iconic women in entertainment, but inside her Los Angeles showroom off Melrose Avenue, fashion’s favorite stylist is the one holding court. Known for curating statement-making looks for Beyoncé, Kerry Washington, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and many more, Akers’ space is a vibrant mix of high fashion, archival treasures, and bold designs from emerging Black creatives.

“This is definitely a playground,” Akers says as she guides BET through her collection. “We have pieces for every moment — from music videos to red carpets to performances. It’s all about artistry and storytelling.”

One of Akers’ most prized pieces is an archival Tom Ford look made famous in A$AP Rocky and Rihanna’s Fashion Killa video. Its zebra motif immediately sets the tone for a showroom filled with jaw-dropping finds. Next to it, a sleek Sergio Hudson jumpsuit — recently worn by Emmy winner Sheryl Lee Ralph — serves as a reminder of Akers’ longstanding commitment to working with Black designers.

Vintage fashion plays a starring role in her curation, with gems like a snow queen-inspired Chanel set and a silky Alexander McQueen slip dress. “These are the types of pieces you’d expect to see in a museum,” Akers says, holding a pair of archival Ferragamo shoes, one of the first ever designed by the iconic house.

For Akers, styling is more than clothes — it’s art. She envisions each garment in multiple contexts, thinking of how a metallic, crystal-studded corset could stun in a music video with thigh-high boots or be reimagined for a red carpet moment with a velvet skirt.

Her thoughtful approach extends to spotlighting global talent. A custom jumpsuit by Nigerian brand Tongoro hangs alongside a vibrant Stella Jean coat designed by the Haitian-Italian creative. Akers imagines Halle Bailey in the piece: “It’d be unexpected for her, but so beautiful. I love playing with those contrasts.”

Akers’ showroom reads like a living fashion archive of pop culture moments. The racks are lined with gowns that have graced Hollywood’s biggest stages, including a two-piece Sergio Hudson look Kerry Washington wore to the PGA Awards and a Gucci ensemble from Alessandro Michele’s tenure at the brand — a twin to the piece Beyoncé famously wore to a basketball game while pregnant with her twins.

The craftsmanship on display is breathtaking, especially with brands like Onalaja, a Black-owned label Akers adores. “Their beading is insane,” she says, gesturing to the handwork that covers an ethereal gown. “It’s next level.”

Beyond its glitz and glamour, Akers’ showroom is a celebration of designers who push boundaries. From Jimmy Choo x Timberland boots to Marc Jacobs platforms, every item is a conversation starter. The space is proof of Akers’ reputation not just as a stylist, but as a cultural curator.

Her work consistently champions Black artistry, elevates independent designers, and cements fashion as a storytelling tool. Whether she’s styling Beyoncé for a world tour or guiding the next generation of talent, Akers brings a mix of history, innovation, and unapologetic Black excellence to everything she touches.

“This space is about more than just clothes,” she says. “It’s about creativity, representation, and honoring the craft.”