1. Tell us a little bit about your background
I grew up in Golders Green, North West London. I now live in New York and have been here for three and a half years.
When I was sixteen I applied for
an internship at two teen magazines, Bliss and Mizz. I worked in the fashion
departments of both magazines over my summer holidays. I enjoyed working for
both publications so much that I decided I wanted to be a fashion journalist
and stylist. After completing my A Levels, I successfully gained a place at
London College of Fashion on their BA (Hons) Fashion Promotion and Journalism
course. Throughout my degree I continued to do work experience with different
publications to learn more about the industry.
I have worked with TV shows, celebrities and brands both in London
and New York namely; Bloomingdales, Macys, Lancôme, L’Oreal, Nintendo,
Nivea, Ted Baker, The Times, InStyle, Harpers Bazaar, People, InTouch Weekly,
Ladies Home Journal, The Wendy Williams Show, GMTV, BBC and CBS’ The Early
show, amongst others.
2. What made you choose a career in the fashion industry in particular?
My mother has always been in to haberdashery, as a child I would see her making curtains, upholstering chairs and sewing amazing dresses. I also have three older sisters; I think seeing their style and my mum’s love of fashion sparked a big interest in me.
3. Fashion and style is constantly evolving. How do keep up to date with current and upcoming trends?
Every year New York, London, Paris and Milan fashion weeks take place. All the designers show there collections at these shows giving you an idea of the trends for the forthcoming season. In addition, I read magazines, blogs and industry papers like WWD and Drapers. I also keep abreast of what is going on in society as society has a big impact on trends. People-watching is another past time; I love to see what people are wearing on the street and how they have put outfits together.
4. This season’s trends have ranged from tartan to punk fashion. Which trend would you consider your favorite for autumn/winter 2013?
I think it is very necessary to be aware of what the current trends are, however, I am not a big follower of them. I prefer to buy great staple items and unique pieces when styling myself. That said, I love the current boy-meets-girl trend: pinstripes, oversized coats and double-breasted jackets. I like structured tailoring.
5. Given your experience and success, what top 5 tips can you give our readers that would help them to pursue a career in fashion journalism or styling?
1. Intern, get work experience or assist – this is an invaluable experience that will help equip you with the necessary skills for the industry and give you great insight.
2. If you want to be a stylist do test shoots. If you want to be a journalist try and get writing experience; write for your university newspaper, local community paper, set up a blog or volunteer your writing skills to someone’s fashion site.
3. Read – make sure you keep up to date with what is going on in the industry and read magazines and blogs for inspiration.
4. Be innovative- think outside the box, what spin can you put on your article or shoot that is different? Always aim to grab the attention of the reader. Be inventive.
5. Never be afraid to ask. If you do not know something or do not understand something, ask. It is the only way you will ever learn.
6. And finally, what would you say is a key fashion piece that every woman should own?
Ohhhh….just one? That’s impossible….I would probably have to say a great pair of black high heels; they immediately add elegance to any outfit, whether you are wearing a pair of skinny jeans or a tailored skirt.
