Thomas Rivera, my stylist, was already waiting at his studio with his crew all set when I arrived. The air smelled faintly of bergamot and hairspray, a combination that had become synonymous with transformation. Thomas had been my guide through countless public appearances, but tonight, this was different. The stakes were higher. Every thread, every seam, every shimmer of fabric needed to convey authority, elegance, and the quiet declaration that I was unshakable.

“You ready, ?” Thomas ...