A Celebrity Stylist Shares Her Biggest Lessons
Say Yes Early On
I didn’t take a straight path into fashion. I started with a foundation course at university, thinking I wanted to be a designer, before realising I was more drawn to the finished image than the making process. From there, I threw myself into internships across PR, magazines, model scouting at Select, assisting designers and even shoe design at Kurt Geiger. I wanted to understand the industry from every angle, and those early experiences gave me a 360° view that still shapes how I work today.
Styling Is About The Final Image, Not Just The Clothes
What I love most about styling is creating a complete picture. It’s not just about the outfit — it’s how the hair, make-up, silhouette and attitude come together to tell a story. That realisation is what led me away from design and into styling, and it’s something I still return to, whether I’m working on a magazine shoot or a red-carpet look.
Relationships Will Open More Doors Than Titles Ever Will
Every major step in my career came through people I worked hard for and built genuine relationships with. From my first magazine internship at Garage with Charlotte Stockdale to GQ and later Harper’s Bazaar, trust and reputation mattered just as much as talent. Being reliable, curious and committed will take you further than any job title.
Menswear Taught Me Discipline, Womenswear Taught Me Confidence
Working at GQ for three and a half years gave me a strong foundation in structure, tailoring and precision. Assisting on shows, editorials and celebrity shoots taught me how to be methodical and detail-driven. Moving back into womenswear allowed me to be more expressive and instinctive, and the balance of both has been essential to my own growth as a stylist.
Red-Carpet Moments Are Built Long Before Anyone Sees Them
The glamour of the Oscars or Met Gala hides months of preparation. For Jada Pinkett Smith’s Glen Martins Oscars look, we worked for months – co-ordinating fittings, chasing dresses, even dyeing shoes to match fabric of the dress and refining every detail until the final moment. The best red-carpet looks aren’t rushed; they’re carefully planned and executed.
Collaboration Is The Secret To Unforgettable Fashion Moments
Some of my proudest work has come from close collaboration. My first Met Gala with Michaela Coel involved working hand-in-hand with Daniel Roseberry of Schiaparelli to merge her vision, heritage and ethical values with the theme. When everyone involved feels heard, the final result is always stronger and more meaningful.
Vintage And Archive Pieces Bring Depth You Can’t Replicate
I’m constantly drawn to vintage and archive fashion because it brings history and individuality to a look. For events like the Met Gala, sourcing archival gold pieces or ethical jewellery adds layers of meaning that elevate the final outfit.
Personal Style Should Feel Classic, But Never Predictable
My own style is rooted in sharp tailoring and strong silhouettes but I always like to add a twist. Texture, bold colour, shoulder pads or statement shoes keep things interesting. I love a fitted blazer, bodysuit and statement trousers, finished with heels and playful jewellery – polished, but never boring.
Investment Pieces Are Worth Waiting For
I don’t rush big fashion purchases. When I finally bought my large black Bottega bag, it felt like a milestone rather than an impulse buy. Those considered pieces become wardrobe staples you return to time and again, and they’re always worth the wait.
Great Styling Is About Confidence, Not Perfection
More than anything, my goal is for the women I style to feel like the best version of themselves. Whether it’s for a red carpet, a cover or everyday life, fashion should empower rather than intimidate. When someone feels confident and comfortable in what they’re wearing, it shows – and that’s when style really works.
Style Icons Are About Attitude As Much As Aesthetics
I’m inspired by women who have a strong point of view. Julie, the creative director of Better, for her chic minimalism; Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy for her effortless 90s style; Princess Diana for her timeless elegance; and modern icons like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber for how they blend vintage and contemporary pieces so naturally. What they all share is confidence – their clothes never wear them.
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