When did you first realize you wanted to be in the fashion industry?
I think it was something that I was always drawn to. I always had my own personal style and knew what worked on me and what didn’t. For as long as I can remember, I had a fascination with Anna Wintour and told everyone that I was going to be the next editor in chief of Vogue. But I think my interest in fashion as a career really developed in high school. I was in a few different clubs but couldn’t really find one that I was passionate about so I decided to start my own fashion club. We would put on a fashion show every year with students modeling and asked local stores to donate the clothes. All of the proceeds from the tickets were donated to a different charity every year. I remember having this amazing feeling of accomplishment once the show was over. To know that you could start something all on your own and have people believe in your vision and support you was very inspiring at that age. At the same time that year, I had the opportunity to write for an up and coming online magazine that featured emerging designers. One day, I interviewed Custo Barcelona in his studio and was invited to his show at fashion week. I remember thinking that there had to be a reason I was on this path because doors just kept opening for me. But I was also incredibly driven and relentless in my pursuit of success, so maybe it was a combination of the two.
I think it was something that I was always drawn to. I always had my own personal style and knew what worked on me and what didn’t. For as long as I can remember, I had a fascination with Anna Wintour and told everyone that I was going to be the next editor in chief of Vogue. But I think my interest in fashion as a career really developed in high school. I was in a few different clubs but couldn’t really find one that I was passionate about so I decided to start my own fashion club. We would put on a fashion show every year with students modeling and asked local stores to donate the clothes. All of the proceeds from the tickets were donated to a different charity every year. I remember having this amazing feeling of accomplishment once the show was over. To know that you could start something all on your own and have people believe in your vision and support you was very inspiring at that age. At the same time that year, I had the opportunity to write for an up and coming online magazine that featured emerging designers. One day, I interviewed Custo Barcelona in his studio and was invited to his show at fashion week. I remember thinking that there had to be a reason I was on this path because doors just kept opening for me. But I was also incredibly driven and relentless in my pursuit of success, so maybe it was a combination of the two.
How did you get your start?
During my Freshman year of college, a friend of my mother’s knew someone who worked in PR at Gianfranco Ferre, Malo and Just Cavalli. I was offered an internship at their NY office that summer and was able to meet with editors on press appointments and help with celebrity dressing. I interned at WWD during my junior year of college and published an article about designer’s favorite Halloween costumes. From there, I studied abroad in Paris and interned at CBC’s ‘Fashion File’ doing post-production work. By the time I graduated college, I had completed 6 internships in all different aspects of the industry, so I had a pretty good idea by then that fashion was it for me.
How long have you been at Saks Fifth Avenue?
It will be a year in March.
Has your role evolved since starting?
Definitely. I’m finally over the learning curve and getting to lead some really creative projects in Beauty and Contemporary Accessories.
What’s a typical day for you like?
There really isn’t a typical day, which is the exciting part of the job. Depending on the projects we’re working on, a typical day can include meeting with the beauty buyers to determine the focus for the upcoming beauty week, assisting on an in-store photoshoot, fielding press inquiries to our fashion directors, meeting with our art director to go over inspiration boards for fragrance week or attending a walk-thru for an in store public appearance. Most of these things don’t all happen in one day but every day is about juggling multiple projects at once.
What was the best fashion advice you’ve ever received?
Fern Mallis once said, “Never underestimate how far you can get in this industry by just being nice.” Knowing I didn’t have to change who I was in order to succeed was important to me.
What’s one piece of advice you can provide to anyone who wants to go into the fashion industry?
Intern, Intern Intern! Even if it’s a small marketing or advertising company in your local town, any relevant experience is helpful. Use that time as an opportunity to try different brands and intern in several areas of the industry. Ultimately, it’ll make you more well-rounded and you’ll have a better idea of what you really want to do by the time you graduate. It’s better to figure out what you don’t like when you’re just interning for a summer instead of at your first full time job. Introduce yourself to different people in the company and ask them if they have time to speak to you about what they do. It’s easier to get their time when you’re there every day than when you graduate and are applying for a job. Also, keep in touch with the contacts you meet along the way and follow up with them when you graduate.
What’s your dream job?
I’d like to own a creative company that has a philanthropic component.
What inspires/influences you?
Traveling, photography, people who are really passionate about what they do.
How would you describe your sense of style?
Classic but with a European sensibility. I love Edwardian jackets, tailored blazers, strong shoulders and black, it goes with everything and it’s so chic.
What item are you lusting after?
I’m currently in the process of decorating my apartment so any kind of artwork or photograph that sentimental value is my focus for the time being.
What’s your biggest fashion faux pas?
I had these jeans in middle school that had slits on the insides that came right above the ankle. One day, I wore ankle boots with white socks and completely forgot that the socks were still visible. I don’t think I ever wore those jeans again.
Where do you shop?
Well, mostly Saks these days, just for convenience purposes, but I also shop at H&M, Zara and Banana Republic on occassion. There’s also a place called Montmartre near my apartment that I really like.
Where do you shop?
Well, mostly Saks these days, just for convenience purposes, but I also shop at H&M, Zara and Banana Republic on occassion. There’s also a place called Montmartre near my apartment that I really like.
What music are you listening to now?
I love the Rihanna song “Only Girl” and have a tendency to belt out the words when I’m in my apartment. I pretty much like her entire album right now.
What items can you not leave the house without?
My blackberry and lipgloss.
Do you ever travel for work? If so, where do you go?
Not yet but I’m hoping to visit a few of the stores this year.
What’s your favorite city?
Paris, without a doubt. The shopping, the cafés, the city itself is just breathtaking.
Who is your fashion icon?
Audrey Hepburn, she practically invented the LBD.
