Dirty Little Styling Secrets From Three Industry Insiders!
In the age of The Rachel Zoe Project, everyone (and their mother) aspires to be a celebrity stylist. But it isn't as easy as it looks. Making it to the upper-echelons of this industry is like joining an Ivy League secret society, including the hazardous-to-your-health hazing (have you ever schlepped twice your body weight in clothes around town?). That's why we rounded up three styling wonder women who have the wherewithal and work ethic to become The Next Big Thing. And after years of climbing the styling ropes, they've sifted through the very best of the how-tos, easy tricks, and dish-y wardrobe secrets. From repurposing panty liners (don’t judge!) to a quick tip for avoiding a tailor when time is scarce, these glam gals are happy to share what makes them tick and how they’ve risen to the top.
Angela Fink
Ever wondered how Kim Kardashian stepped up her red carpet Klass? Angela was there from the beginning to morph the reality star into a style maven. Also offering her lively eye to Julianne Hough (another total transformation!), Angela came to L.A. with a distinct vision of becoming a stylist — she even had business cards made with the self-bestowed title, which impressed a future boss! Angela's now the in-house stylist and expert for JustFab.com, where she's putting her artsy-meets-glam aesthetic to good use. We know this always-busy chick has more tricks up her super-cute sleeve soon, and can’t wait to see what she does next!
Where do you find unexpected inspiration?
"Lately I have been finding myself getting inspiration from older men and women. I think we are going back to a more refined, put together look. Yes, I love the mix match but I'm feeling matchy-matchy could be having a comeback, and the senior citizens are rockin’ it! I also find my boyfriend inspiring; he reminds me that fashion is fun, and it should be effortless and reflect your mood."
What are your sneakiest style secrets?
"When you have a problem with your jeggings/pants going where you don't want them (you catch my drift!), try panty liners for blocking the pants into those unmentionable areas. I swear, this never fails for cameltoe woes!"
"I live for safety pins, they come in all different colors and sizes, and whether I'm on a shoot or at my house getting ready to go out, I use them like it’s my job (well, I guess it is!). When I don’t have the time to take my garb to the tailor ahead of time, and I want to shorten a skirt, or nip it in certain places, I love to use these nifty little tools!"
"Another style secret you must know is when you have those feisty zippers get stuck, grab a household bar of soap (I like Ivory), and rub the corner of the it gently on the zipper— the wax works like a charm!"
"Lastly, Duck brand duct tape can be your best friend, and now it comes in the coolest designs! For a quick hem, turn your garment inside out, apply the tape, then turn it back around and voilà, your garment is instantly shortened!"
Do you have any under-the-radar shopping spots in L.A. that you’ve found while hunting for clients?
"I actually find some great stuff at Angl in the mall. It's great for playful editorials. I also love the Goodwill off of La Brea Avenue — when I donate, I always make sure to look for cool vintage jewelry (and there's always something!)."
Her Picks: Dolce Vita Jax Ankle Boot, $199, available at Dolce Vita; Proenza Schouler Python-Effect Leather Tote, $1175, available at Net-A-Porter; Basting Bright Safety Pins, $4.99, available at JoAnn; Duck Leopard Duct Tape, $4.99, available at Staples.
Photos: Via Angela Fink, Dolce Vita, Net-A-Porter, JoAnn, Staples, and Angela Fink.
Angela Fink
Ever wondered how Kim Kardashian stepped up her red carpet Klass? Angela was there from the beginning to morph the reality star into a style maven. Also offering her lively eye to Julianne Hough (another total transformation!), Angela came to L.A. with a distinct vision of becoming a stylist — she even had business cards made with the self-bestowed title, which impressed a future boss! Angela's now the in-house stylist and expert for JustFab.com, where she's putting her artsy-meets-glam aesthetic to good use. We know this always-busy chick has more tricks up her super-cute sleeve soon, and can’t wait to see what she does next!
Where do you find unexpected inspiration?
"Lately I have been finding myself getting inspiration from older men and women. I think we are going back to a more refined, put together look. Yes, I love the mix match but I'm feeling matchy-matchy could be having a comeback, and the senior citizens are rockin’ it! I also find my boyfriend inspiring; he reminds me that fashion is fun, and it should be effortless and reflect your mood."
What are your sneakiest style secrets?
"When you have a problem with your jeggings/pants going where you don't want them (you catch my drift!), try panty liners for blocking the pants into those unmentionable areas. I swear, this never fails for cameltoe woes!"
"I live for safety pins, they come in all different colors and sizes, and whether I'm on a shoot or at my house getting ready to go out, I use them like it’s my job (well, I guess it is!). When I don’t have the time to take my garb to the tailor ahead of time, and I want to shorten a skirt, or nip it in certain places, I love to use these nifty little tools!"
"Another style secret you must know is when you have those feisty zippers get stuck, grab a household bar of soap (I like Ivory), and rub the corner of the it gently on the zipper— the wax works like a charm!"
"Lastly, Duck brand duct tape can be your best friend, and now it comes in the coolest designs! For a quick hem, turn your garment inside out, apply the tape, then turn it back around and voilà, your garment is instantly shortened!"
Do you have any under-the-radar shopping spots in L.A. that you’ve found while hunting for clients?
"I actually find some great stuff at Angl in the mall. It's great for playful editorials. I also love the Goodwill off of La Brea Avenue — when I donate, I always make sure to look for cool vintage jewelry (and there's always something!)."
Her Picks: Dolce Vita Jax Ankle Boot, $199, available at Dolce Vita; Proenza Schouler Python-Effect Leather Tote, $1175, available at Net-A-Porter; Basting Bright Safety Pins, $4.99, available at JoAnn; Duck Leopard Duct Tape, $4.99, available at Staples.
Photos: Via Angela Fink, Dolce Vita, Net-A-Porter, JoAnn, Staples, and Angela Fink.
