When did you first realize you wanted to be in the fashion industry?
I don't think there was ever an exact moment where I realized I wanted to be a part of the fashion industry. Rather, it was more of an ongoing passion and while I dabbled with the idea of other careers and fields, I always found myself drawn back into the fashion industry.
How did you get your start?
During freshman year of college, I got an internship in the fashion closet at Marie Claire. From there, I learned of other internships and eventually was hired at StyleCaster, when my former boss at Marie Claire referred me.
How long have you been at StyleCaster?
Two and a half years. My first day was actually on my birthday and we didn't have an office yet, so we had to host meetings at the SoHo House library.
Has your role evolved since starting?
I was originally brought on as the fashion assistant and put in charge of managing the fashion closet and overseeing the interns. Since then, StyleCaster has undergone a few changes; the biggest one being the introduction of editorial and trend shoots to StyleCaster. Our trend stories are well received by our audience and so my focus as the style and market editor, is primarily on pulling in clothing and accessories for those photo shoots.
What’s a typical day for you like?
There are actually two different types of typical days for me. The first, is preparing for a shoot which involves reviewing the direction of the story with our creative director, followed by me e-mailing or visiting with brands and PR houses to pull in samples that will work for the story. The second type would be our shoot days. However, these days are punctuated with days of editorial shoots, video shoots, makeover shoots, and previews. I would say it's more common to have routine activities and appointments on a daily basis than there is a conventional day.
What's the best fashion advice you’ve ever received?
Zoe Glassner of Marie Claire once told me to never underestimate
anyone or anything. Extremely sound advice, and not limited to fashion
alone.
What’s one piece of advice you can provide to those who want to go into the fashion industry?
Internships are invaluable and usually the level at which you can
immediately weed out those who will succeed from those who won't.
What’s your dream job?
To be Creative Director of an online publication.
How would you describe your sense of style?
It's in transition right now...
What item are you lusting after?
I'm looking for a pair of camel boots that come up to the knee, with a heel that won't be eaten alive by a subway grate the second I step outside.
What’s your biggest fashion faux pas?
I spent the greater part of my adolescence in a giant phase of
repeated fashion faux pas as I tried to discover my personal style. From awkward flare jeans, to oversized sweatshirts with micro shorts, to outfit sets from Kids R Us, I was a hot mess from 10 years old til... until maybe... 20.
Where do you shop?
Shopping wears thin on me rather quickly. I love Bird in Williamsburg though, because it has aggregated some of my favorite labels under one roof: 3.1 Phillip Lim, APC, Loeffler Randall, and Rachel Comey.
What item(s) can you not leave the house without?
My iPad. It contains the entire StyleCaster portfolio, and an
assortment of cheesy e-books to keep me company in between appointments.
What’s your favorite city?
I'm from the northern suburbs of Chicago and the Midwest holds a
special place in my heart. I love that every meal comes with a bread basket, including bagel breakfasts.
Who is your fashion icon?
Audrey Hepburn. I know it's a cliche response but it's cliche for a reason: she's stunning.
