Legit
style advice is hard to come by these days, as we fashionistas get bombarded
with sale alerts and trend reports on out-of-our-reach accessories. Fortunately,
personal stylist Jules Fergus maintains
a down-to-earth approach to fashion and has a few DIY style tips up her sleeve
that she’s willing to share.
o Where is your hometown? Dublin,
Ireland.
o Where do you currently reside? Gardens, Cape Town
o How many years have you been in the business? 12 years
o What was your first job in fashion? Assistant Stylist at I.D
magazine, London
o How did you get started as a stylist? I
started out assisting Robynne Kahn (@afashionfriend) in Cape Town, two years later
I was styling international jobs on my own. After 6 years when baby Drummond was
born, I decided to open my own personal styling business.
o Favourite stylist
trick? I always
carry double sided tape - perfect for emergency hem repairs and fluff removal
and baby unscented wet wipes as they get most stains out including makeup and
wine!
o Five items every girl needs in
their wardrobe:
1. A pair of perfectly fitting jeans
2. An alabaster
cashmere scarf
3. A white
crisp shirt
4. Current
accessories
5. A cross-body bag
o Favourite winter
trends: Leather biker jacket. Knit-wear, ankle boots and double denim. The
statement necklace and a vibrant scarf, oh and I’m loving lace & braids.
o Most treasured item in
your closet: My Iro sequined biker jacket and mulberry Roxy handbag.
o Biggest inspiration: Cringe but
it has to be my mom, she has always embraced fashion!
o Favourite clothing
stores: In cape town - Shop-label for denim. Iracema for accessories.
Mr&Mrs for something local and Afraid of mice for something vintage.
o Describe your own
personal style: A mixture of retro & bohemian
o Biggest mistake women
make when shopping or getting dressed: The two
most important qualities to look for in fabric are weight and movement. If a
fabric is too stiff, it can look boxy; too thin, and it may cling to every
bulge. Also proportions, your clothes may fit properly, but if you don't get
the proportions right, you'll still be off the mark. Lastly when shopping - "You
get what you pay for" is gospel with fabric. Cheap fabrics tend to be less
flattering, while higher-quality fabrics look better, last longer and hold
their shape.
o Favourite city &
why: Dublin, because Irish women
know how to follow trends, but still manage to make it their own. There
is a certain sense of wonder and mystery to Ireland that comes through in its
fashion. Irish women are not afraid to take on cold weather, rain or
cobble-stone streets - they will suffer for fashion!
o How can people get in
touch with you for personal styling? Email julesfergus@gmail.com or call 084 4457513
o What
advice would you give to budding stylists? Do not be
afraid of a LOT of unglamorous grafting - long hours and minimal payment - if
any! At the end of the day the training pays off. Always strive to make your
clients look like individuals.
Anyone
from major celebrities, sport stars, politicians, and everyday people enlist
the help of a personal stylist to re-vamp their wardrobe. If
you have an eye for style, love to shop, and help others then this profession
may be the perfect fit for you.
