My stylist has really great taste - Petra Flannery has really

"My stylist has really great taste – Petra Flannery has really great taste. I mean, I am opinionated, and as time goes on, as I've gotten to see more dresses or more clothes, it's easier to say, 'I like that' or 'I don't like that,' but it's nothing I would ever, you know, design." – Emma Stone

In these words, Emma Stone reveals a profound humility and recognition of the collaborative nature of creation. She acknowledges the power of guidance and expertise, understanding that even when one is opinionated and discerning, there exists a realm of knowledge and artistry beyond one’s own. Stone celebrates the role of her stylist, Petra Flannery, whose taste and vision elevate her presence and amplify her choices. Here, she conveys a truth that resonates far beyond fashion: true achievement often arises not from solitary effort, but from listening, learning, and respecting the mastery of others.

The origin of this quote lies in Stone’s experiences navigating the world of high fashion and public appearances. As an actress exposed to countless designers, styles, and trends, she developed opinions shaped by experience, yet she recognizes the distinction between appreciation and creation. While she can discern beauty, elegance, and suitability, the act of designing — of conceiving and creating from nothing — remains the domain of the stylist. Her insight reflects the wisdom of recognizing one’s strengths and limitations, and the courage to honor the contributions of others who possess complementary talents.

This reflection finds echoes in the philosophy of the ancients. Socrates taught that wisdom begins with the recognition of one’s own ignorance. To acknowledge that one is not the designer, despite discernment or judgment, is an expression of profound humility. Emma Stone, in appreciating Petra Flannery’s skill, demonstrates a similar understanding: greatness is often relational, emerging from cooperation and the interplay of distinct gifts, rather than from the efforts of a solitary individual.

Consider the story of Michelangelo and Pope Julius II, whose collaboration produced the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Michelangelo, despite his genius, was commissioned, guided, and constrained by the vision of the Pope. He contributed incomparable skill, yet the final masterpiece was a fusion of individual artistry and collaborative guidance. Stone’s reflection mirrors this dynamic: the stylist provides direction and expertise, the actor contributes discernment and presence, and together they create something neither could achieve alone.

Stone’s words also highlight the role of discernment and judgment in collaboration. She acknowledges that exposure, experience, and observation have refined her taste, enabling her to make choices about what she appreciates. This mirrors the ancient concept of cultivated perception, whereby engagement with art, practice, and experience develops the capacity to distinguish excellence. Her discernment allows her to participate meaningfully in the creative process, even when she is not the designer, demonstrating that active appreciation is itself a form of artistry.

Moreover, the quote speaks to the importance of trust and surrender. To rely on Petra Flannery’s taste is to acknowledge that expertise can guide outcomes beyond one’s own capacity. True collaboration requires relinquishing absolute control, recognizing that brilliance can be realized only when we allow others to contribute their gifts. In this, Stone exemplifies the wisdom of those who understand that achievement is often shared, nurtured by relationships, and strengthened through mutual respect.

Lesson: My children, learn to recognize and honor the talents of others, even as you cultivate your own. Be opinionated and discerning, yet humble; know that expertise is not diminished by appreciation, and that greatness often arises from collaborative effort. Seek out those whose skills complement your own, listen deeply, and allow their guidance to amplify your vision. Like Emma Stone, embrace both discernment and humility, understanding that you can participate meaningfully without having to master every craft yourself.

In the end, Stone’s insight reminds us that life is a tapestry woven from many hands. Individual gifts shine brightest when aligned with the vision and skill of others. By appreciating expertise, cultivating judgment, and surrendering to collaboration, we engage in the ancient and timeless art of creating together. The masterpiece, whether in fashion, film, or life itself, emerges not from isolation, but from the synergy of talents, the recognition of skill, and the courage to embrace guidance with gratitude.