Tell us more about who you are and what you do!

My name is Corey and I’m a serial side-quester, content creator and social media strategist, and soon-to-be interior designer. I’m currently in the transition from working in social to becoming an interior designer, and so far this has been one of my biggest and most interesting side-quests! 

You share a lot of great advice on making a career pivot. What advice do you wish someone gave to you before making this pivot?

I wish someone had told me to get really comfortable with being “bad” as a beginner. Starting over really requires you to get comfortable with not being the best of the best, to get really cozy with making mistakes and failures, and know that it’s ok — it’s part of the process, it’s normal, and it can be, dare I say, fun (?!)  if you allow it. 

Corey is wearing The Patch Pocket Wide Leg in black

How has your past career in social media influenced your work as an interior designer?

I think social provides untethered access to inspiration in every form - whether it be other designers and their POVs, artists, woodworkers, or DIYers making something from nothing. But ultimately, I think my career in social has made me much more comfortable to share my journey online and be more willing to shed the prison of public perception, despite being new. I think sometimes the sentiment online can be that “trying” is cringe unless you have your success story to go with it, but for me it’s important to share my growing POV and the ins and outs of what this journey looks like because I know there are others out there wishing they could make the leap — and I hope to remind them that they 100% can. The interior design industry can be quite buttoned up and restrained. But I really feel that if interior design is designed around and for humans who are opening their homes (which can be a vulnerable thing), there should be a level of frankness and playfulness and human-forwardness both in the work and from me as a person. 

What are some interior design trends you are most excited about?

Unfortunately, I can’t move past color drenching. I’m sorry, I  just cannot - I love it, even though it’s been here for a while.  I think it’s an easy way to make a space feel richer, more elegant, and fun. The payoff is so great that I can’t help but love it. 

Corey is wearing The Barrel Jean Twist in Cinnamon

Who are some interior designers that inspire you?

There are many, so this almost feels unfair to answer, but Francis Merrill of Reath Design and Marijó of OfPuga are two in particular. The way that Frances Merrill uses color is pure joy and her use of layered pattern is just so interesting and spirited. And I’m incredibly inspired by Marijó and her emotional, art-forward approach to design. She really thinks about leading with how a person feels in their space and that’s something that I wholeheartedly cling to. 

What is a non-negotiable part of your daily routine when life gets busy?

A latte and walking my dog. They’re simple - basic, even. But hey, if it brings you joy, why wouldn’t you make it a non-negotiable? 

Corey is wearing The Barrel Jean Twist in Cinnamon

How do you like to style your Just Black Denim jeans?

With everything. And I’m serious about that. I’m a jeans LOVER and should probably put in my will that I demand to be buried with my denim. But more specifically, I love to pair with a button-down and a pointed flat or boots. I’m usually a minimalist when it comes to what I wear and the cut and styles of Just Black Denim jeans work with that every time. 

Keep up with @coreystaley on Instagram

Photos by @alexaraevitug