I am writing this blog as I overlook Times Square in the Big Apple. I have come to my favorite city, just a few days shy of fashion week, to support my lifelong friend interview for her dream job… as the STYLE host for BBC’s acclaimed production, What Not To Wear. (Yes, Clinton Kelly & Stacy London are moving on to other projects, according to the producers of the show!) After countless hours of going through her closet and vetoing dozens of outfits, we settled on a sophisticated ensemble that would look good on TV - a black pencil skirt belted with a crisp white blouse, and a gorgeous purple car coat. A chic outfit that would hopefully help land her this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In the fashion industry, you certainly have more leeway to showcase your personality in your clothes. If you’re interviewing for a career in the medical or engineering fields, I would highly suggest you stick to the safe black suit. But in fashion – sometimes going to the extreme could HELP get you that coveted position. A magazine editor would notice this season’s Chanel pumps on your feet. Barney’s visual team wants someone with an eccentric eye for accessorizing.
DO balance your outfit with this season’s trends and sophisticated basics. It’s smart to start with a black dress and add a crop jacket and funky tights for flair.
DON’T think you can pull a fast one on a fashion insider and sport a knock-off label. This is a no-no for everyone! You were NOT lucky to get a real Louis Vuitton at that purse party for $100. Not true – and LV would be very disappointed in you for even carrying around that fake!
DO mix a bit of vintage with current fashion. It’s ok to wear a tweed skirt from the 70’s – as long as you pair it with a blouse and jacket you bought in this decade.
DON’T overdo it! You still want to look pulled together and not like you dressed up in every designer label you own.
DO wear a signature accessory that can become a conversation piece in the interview. You want to impress them with your style and intelligence. If you designed your own t-shirt, dress it up with a blazer and jewelry and tell them your wearing an original. They may want to order a few from you!
