Drab to Fab

By Alyssa Davis

About a decade ago, fashion stylist was probably one of the most underrated professions in the fashion world. Fast forward ten years to the present, and it’s no secret how dramatically the reputation has evolved. Just take a glance at the media. Rachel Zoe, who is credited with crafting the styles of Nicole Richie, Lindsay Lohan, and Keira Knightly (to name a few), has become not only a reality television star but also a fashion icon whose career is envied by the entire fashion-crazed community. Or what about style gurus Stacy London and Clinton Kelly of TLC’s What Not to Wear? Watching them transform the public from drab to fab is more than just a guilty pleasure; it’s an infatuation that we can’t help but want to be a part of. To get some insider knowledge about this jet-setting occupation, a few of Boston’s finest fashion stylists have agreed to dish on their daily tasks as well as spill secrets to successful shopping during an economic recession.

Alegra Torel, former model and previous owner of Boston’s trendy boutique Lola, located in Newton Centre, has certainly created a name for herself within the fashion industry. Not your average fashion stylist, Torel has expertise as an international fashion consultant, beauty and image consultant, personal stylist, and shopper. She explains that there are two types of clients she assists: “There is my typical client [public] and my celebrity client. They differ because styling for celebrities is a day-to-day process, dressing for shows and events. When styling non-celebrity clients, it is less intense because I do not meet with them on a daily basis.” Torel is also currently styling for the taping of The Real Housewives of New York City, Season 3, working exclusively with Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen. So what exactly is an average day like for this globe-trotting stylist? With the fast-paced environment of the fashion industry always changing, it’s hard to be sure. As she receives the weekly schedule, she looks for events, with the assistance of two or three interns. However, there are always last-minute changes. Torel explains, “There may be a last-minute change at 6:00 PM that day and it’s our job to provide outfits for 7:00 PM, which is why I always have backups.”

As for some economic advice, Torel explains that each person should have what she calls a “collector’s vanity,” filled with not only what you want but also what you need and, more important items that are interchangeable. She suggests a pencil skirt because it can easily go from day to night. She advises consumers to still commit to a few trendy pieces but to choose wisely. Torel says, “I’m sporting the big shoulder trend this season but won’t be investing in thigh-high boots.”
Among the clan of the fashion conscious, Ginger Burr, President of Total Image Consultants of Boston, also guides the public into a fashion-forward direction. When asked what her number one wardrobe staple would be, she responded that it would be the not-so-traditional, legendary little black dress. “While it seems to be an unspoken rule, there is really nothing that says an LBD has to be black. If black is not your best color, why not get one in a great deep color – perhaps an elegant dark brown or copper, or a beautiful navy, maybe even a rich plum or magnificent teal?“ Burr says.
Meanwhile, Evangelia Souris of Optimum Image recommends a crisp white shirt of the best fabric and tailoring: “This has such an understated and elegant look…at the same time appearing fresh and simple.” On the topic of handbags, Souris recommends a simple bag that can be embellished by tying a scarf around it or adding a chain to give it more interest.
Regarding the issue of the economic recession and the consumer’s temptation to purchase cheaper clothing pieces, Maria Vasilevsky of Stilista argues, “We are living in a less-is-more environment when it comes to fashion. Now, more than ever, quality and fit are key, and our clients expect their garments to last season after season. My pick for the most necessary investment piece would be a trench coat in black, navy, or beige, because the neutral colors will not go out of style.”

On a final note, Mary Lou Andre of Dressing Well states with pride, “The economy may be down, but don’t underestimate the power of dressing up. When you feel good about yourself, it’s contagious, and everyone around you benefits from your good choices and confidence. It’s really that simple.” Now how can we argue with that?

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