Interview with personal stylist Jules Fergus

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.