101 Glam Girl Ways
to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle
$14.99
Available at: amazon.com
SJ: Hi Dawn, thank you so much for joining us here at Stiletto Jungle for a quick chat! We're so excited to give you coverage of your new pocket-sized fashion and beauty guide! How long have you been passionate about styling?Be sure to check out Dawn's website at Belladawn.com and see her book on Amazon.com!
Dawn: Having a passion has been instilled in me since I was a child. I always enjoyed experimenting with clothing on myself and friends, as I grew older, I knew it was a world I wanted to be apart of. I love helping clients find items they love and feel good in as well as seeing them with a new sense of confidence. I like knowing I can enhance a person's lifestyle through their clothing.
SJ: How did you take your love for styling to the next level of making it your business and becoming an expert?
Dawn: My father and mother own their own businesses. Being around that environment at a young age inspired me to do the same and go into business for myself. I obtained my B.S. in Business Management and studied Fashion Merchandizing at Parsons. After college I started my business plan, did my research to prepare myself, found a good location. I started working with my customers as they came in to shop I would help style them and give advice. I was lucky to grow my styling business out of a few high-end clients. As I had the opportunity to work on photo shoots, each new project led to more business for me. Now that I have completed my book 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle it has given me the opportunity to put all the styling tips I have, neatly into a cute book for anyone to read.
SJ:What are some challenges you face in dressing celebrities?
Dawn: I have had the opportunity to work with a few rising stars and one of the greatest challenges is not changing who they are. Managers and agents like to step in and direct what clothing, accessories etc. look best, but that is not always who the person is. I like to work with what they like and build on that. This builds a lasting relationship between us, and they trust my choices.
SJ: Can you tell us more about creating the perfect first date ensemble?
Dawn: Putting together the perfect first date outfit can be tricky, not looking like you tried to hard, but also looking like you did try. I like to keep it simple and show your personality. If it is a causal date like the movies, or a local bar, go for a pair of straight-leg, dark washed denim, a silky top with a detailed jacket. If the first date seems to be a bit more dressy, there are tons of great cotton dresses that flatter your shape, add some accessories like a bold watch and chunky necklace, and you are good to go.
SJ: What are your top trendy picks for Fall that are key pieces to add to an already solid wardrobe?
Dawn: I'd say if you are more of a risk taking type of girl go for a perfectly fitted, leather vest with studded or ruffle detail. If you are more classic try an embellished blazer with crystal or sequin detail on the lapel.
SJ: What is your personal style?
Dawn: I like to chance up my personal style from time to time, but I do like a bit more dressed up look. I always have heels on (I'm a sucker for Louboutin's) I adore cute print dresses, and love adding a city chic edge with a cropped leather jacket or detailed vest.
SJ: What are your worst style nightmare?
Dawn: Not having a tailor available to fix an item, they are the ones who come in and make a dress fit like a glove and look gorgeous. Second is when items don't arrive in on time, I have literally waited for UPS and Fed Ex to arrive hours before I needed an item, it is the worst feeling.
SJ: Who's your favorite stiletto designer?
Dawn: I have to say of course Christian Louboutin it seems I have started collecting these shoes, they just feel good, and fit right. Plus they are a necessity and work wonders for a 5'2" girl in an industry of 6' tall models.
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