I had the opportunity to have amazing seating with a great view as the models walked on raised tops of marble panelling above the heads of the onlookers. With a combination of male and female models, trendy, unique looks were presented beautifully for an attractive crowd.
I had a great opportunity to catch up with the shows creators and pick their brains about the world according to a stylist.
Anna-Marie Trzebinski of AMT Styling
First of all I wanted to say thank you for allowing us to have a look into your world. How are you feeling after your recent collaborative event at Jalouse?
Thank you for coming, it was lovely to meet you! It is a strange feeling to be managing such a big event, to have so many thoughts of styling and production going through your head 24/7 switching to it being all over in one evening; the next morning I was relieved! It is an anti climax but I believe that is due to exhaustion as Walter and I have worked so hard. I will be back on form Monday morning (tomorrow!)
How accepting would you say the fashion industry is when it comes to stylists?
There is a massive market for stylists but it is all about your contacts. I believe stylists are beginning to receive the profile and reputation they deserve although I know many in the industry, and out, do not know the hard work it involves; it is not always glamorous, and often not. As a stylist I have to know my fashion, my designers, my pr companies, my retail, my agents, my creatives, my celebrities, my business and production. There is a lot of self promotion involved and you only get somewhere if you truly believe in yourself.
Would you say you are celebrated and will received for your creative efforts?
I have learnt to never expect and to always make yourself happy and be proud. No one will do or give it to you and if they do it is a bonus. It is a tough industry and the good feedback Walter & I have received from our event has been met with smiles, relief and happiness. I am proud of what we achieved at our event and I hope our professionalism and creativity will be called for when it is needed. We have lots of post production to do and leads to follow up on besides new connections to establish further so we are still very busy.
When it comes to photo shoots, working with clients and different projects what are you strategies to getting the job done?
When taking new projects on I like to set up a meeting with my client and discuss what they want and what needs to be done, I make a list. I research, create moodboards and source a creative team that I see fit for the job in terms of skill and style. I am highly organised and use my studio to take time to concentrate on admin and creative license. I always create a call sheet with all contacts sent out to everyone involved and make sure everything is ready and fully prepared before a shoot. On the shoot I have strong art direction as I am always fully focused on the brief. I know what looks good and what doesn't and I pay attention to detail.
I've seen that you have done some work with FabAfriq magazine for their women's issue. How important would you say style is in relation to a woman's presentation?
Style is an expression of one's self and it says a lot about a person. Everyone like's to feel good and being well presented does exactly that. Presentation & style fall in sync with each other. With the right outfit, fit and style you can be confident even if you are not. Of course there are many different styles and everyone is different. A good example is a corporate outfit for work that many struggle to create appropriate yet stylish. There are many options out there you just need to know where & what to look for.
Who are your top five most stylish women or men at the moment and why?
I have decided to stick with women and break my top five into categories, apologies it turned into six.
Actress: Charlize Theron - I have followed her acting for years and her style has grown alongside. A prime example is her appearance at the Golden Globes 2012 wearing a beautiful haute couture gown by Dior - a real daring stunner that exuded feminine blushing romance and showed off her beautiful figure and legs.
Historic: Marilyn Monroe Ref - Photograph by Cecil Beaton, 22 February 1956, an obvious icon but none the less important, a famous curvy blonde that gave women confidence in themselves.
Fictional: Carrie Bradshaw - a stylish chameleon always trying something new & bold, never afraid of change.
Designer: Always Vivienne Westwood as my styling is very similar and outrageous given the creative license; volume, colours, prints, art, embellishment, punk!
Music: Twiggy - I have always loved her statement eye lashes, a real style staple, and she is always forward fashion thinking.
Current: Alexa Chung - Unique and effortless style from her makeup to her hair and clothes, this girl knows her own style!
Who would you like to collaborate with in the future? There are many big names that spring to mind but I am always meeting new and interesting people so I have much opportunity until I am established as a stylist to collaborate in music, art & fashion with smaller but just as talented up and coming artists, I don't want to limit myself. I always loved Alexander McQueen and still do so I would love to do something with Sarah Burton.
Where in London do you hang out when you aren't styling the elite ?
I really like the arty scene in Camden but sometimes it's just too far to go so I really like Soho & Nottinghill.
Where do you shop?
My favourite high street is Zara, online I like ASOS as there is always something stylish within budget and for online designer Cocosa. I am also a big fan of Cos & EBay for vintage buys! :)
How do you prepare for a challenging shoot?
I clear my head and try to focus fully on the job and deadline. I try and get an early night before the day of the shoot - although it doesn't always happen. Walter and I always put the styling on a model or mannequin and photograph so we can re-access if there is a problem with an outfit.
How important is location when you are creating looks?
The location really sets the mood of the shoot, it is essential to pick the right location for the mood-board but it doesn't necessarily have to be massive. I did a shoot in a graveyard and it was a very large area but we only shot scenes within a small area as there were really interesting shots in the one space. For Walter and I's exhibition shoot we chose an urban area with different background in contrast to the smart clothing which highlighted the garments quality.
If you had to sum up what purpose styling has in the fashion industry what would you say?
Stylists ensure designers are discovered, advertisements and editorial features fit the brief and the garments, looks and models are fabulous. Stylists are on the constant research for new ideas and trends which they sometimes set so we can often be at the forefront of fashion which is one big loop. I also work on art direction and shoot production to ensure my work is kept to the high standards I am happy with and that my clients expect.
Are there any areas of your work that you would like to expand on?
I would like to work on further editorials and it would be interesting to work full time for a while or part time for a magazine or pr agency to see what it is like on the other side and corporate side of the industry. Everything I have learnt and learn takes me on my journey and evolves my work raising standards throughout.
What looks/trends are you adapting to your work at the moment?
At the moment I am strong with the military theme as I love the pea jackets and the trend has not been round for a few years. It is styled in not an obvious way, more in features with buckles, boots, gold buttons, badges & khaki green. I am also loving the leather features on garments such as the dress I wore to our catwalk event by designer James Hock. Walter and I based our catwalk collection on these themes with use of bold colour.
You see your self as a travel enthusiast. How important is travel in relation to your creativity?
I love to travel and want to do so more! I love to meet new people, see what's going on in different countries around the world and work with different teams. I am always open to learning new processes and I find travelling exciting just like styling. The world is your oyster and Walter and I hope to be taking the world by storm with our styling...next stop America!
I've read that your find inspiration in many different areas and objects, some of which may not be seen as fashion linked. What has been the most significant inspiration of your career?
Zandra Rhodes was a big influence and inspiration for me as a teenager, I loved her bold prints and colour and her outrageous style. I set my goal to work for her one day. I did in 2007 for three months in London when she was designing the costumes and set for AIDA back in 2009. I also printed some of the glass mosaic pieces artist Andrew Logan used for his sculpture of Zandra which was thrilling to do. My influences now range from anything from reflections in the puddles to a piece in a gallery, garment I found in a charity shop to a photograph I found at a boot-sale or even what the lady is wearing opposite me on the tube. There are lots of ideas constantly around you.
How did this translate to a shoot or project and how was it received?
After working for Zandra Rhodes and a couple of other design houses I decided to create a fashion collection that drew together everything I was about and all my skills learnt...colour, theatre - influences from the changing room mirrors, red curtain, corsets and William Shakespeare's Midsummer Nights Dream then digital print, embellishment and beauty. I entitled the collection 'The Greatest Show on Earth' and the show was the beginning of my career.
My last dream was about:
A strange one but pastel balloons floating between clouds with bold bouncing balls and me standing in the middle of it all smiling in a blue dress...I told you it was strange...pretty imagery though! :)
My favourite drink is:
Ever changing but currently the Stylists cocktail - Cranberry, Vodka & Elderflower liqueur with a sugar rim - something Walter & I put together for our reception drink.
The best time to be in London is during:
The summer - so many events, drinking in the courtyards and decked gardens in the trendy pubs and Soho bars, fashion is let loose and not restricted by the weather!
Every stylist should have a:
Practically - an emergency kit with all the essentials, Wardrobe - a beautiful vintage dress!
If I had a muse from the past it would be:
Edith Piaf - an inspirational and truly talented icon.
On my iPod I'm listening to:
Tyler James & Pirupa
My fashion motto is:
Always be yourself and don't be afraid to wear what you feel, as long as you are confident you can wear anything!
Walter Stojash of WS Studio
Hi Walter. First of all congrats on your show at Jalouse went?
I think that question should be asked our guests, by the feedbacks everyone loved it, if so - i love it too!
How hectic were the preparation backstage?
Preparation backstage is always hectic, but by the time you get use to it.
When preparing for a big show what are the major details which are important for it to run smoothly?
The most important thing is the team, I am thankful for everyone who was involved and especially to Anna Marie, of course!
Describe your personal style?
I like to mix different styles in one and create something new for myself. Glamour + grunge, casual + dandy and classic + military! Taste is a muscle and everyone needs to train it.
When did you realise this is what you wanted to do in life?
It was after the age of 7 when things started changed. one day I went shopping with my Mum and decided that I am old enough to pick and choose my own clothes so I asked her if I could pick out my own outfit, which with a little reservation she allowed we did not shop in designer shops or even branded shops. it was an ordinary street market where I used to get my clothes from and I found it to be the most exciting place in town - the style and quality did not matter at that age. it was the notion that I can pick and style whatever I chose and then wear it that gave me the buzz even at that young age. And now working in fashion styling I have the same buzz as than.
What services do you offer and what's the best way for clients to find out if your services are right for them?
I offer Fashion Styling and Personal Styling.
as I have worked at both ends of the camera, my styling education and experience in industry I have expert knowledge of what needs to be done, along with spotting the pitfalls before they happen.
I'm responsible for fashion styling and directions for hair and make-up, ensuring that the production is as flawless as possible.
Are there any specific pieces of music or art that you have felt inspired by?
Inspiring is history of Art and costumes, like Renascence and Rococo, of course 20 century - i like to be back to 20s, 50s, 60s and 70s. Often I feel Inspired by new fashion designers and few established fashion houses and sometimes just of things which is around each of us in everyday.
How do you feel image and style fit in to modern society?
Of course. Fashion trends each season fades, as we know, but style is eternal.
How do you mentally prepare for meeting with a new client?
Trust in myself and meditation helps, most of the preparation follows after the meeting and knowing my client better.
From reading about you I've learned you are knowledgeable in the area of making people look good. How would you respond to a client that had concerns about their body image?
Well, I haven't meet anyone who would be satisfied with their body image, there are always things to improve by using right piece of clothes, shapes and colours. I always say to my clients that we all need to try our best than we will feel the best.
What has been your most stylish purchase of your career?
One way flight ticket from Milan to London.
What is next for you in relation to new projects?
I hope after our event and collaboration with Anna, strength and creativity of both of us, as like many world famous designers which works in a pair, we are going to rock styling standards and show the world most incredible projects, styling techniques and shows, to give an idea about our created brand AMT&WS.
If I wasn't a stylist I'd be a psychologist......
A stylist should never be without a style.......
My best feature is my thoughts and ideas.....
I never leave home without my keys......
My favourite city is London..............
Learn more :
Anna-Marie Trzebinski of AMT Styling
Walter Stojash of WS Studio.
Photos from the fashion show can be seen here >
Photo credit: Serguei Cherkassov, Drew Tommons, Studio Shots
I had a great opportunity to catch up with the shows creators and pick their brains about the world according to a stylist.
Anna-Marie Trzebinski of AMT Styling
First of all I wanted to say thank you for allowing us to have a look into your world. How are you feeling after your recent collaborative event at Jalouse?
Thank you for coming, it was lovely to meet you! It is a strange feeling to be managing such a big event, to have so many thoughts of styling and production going through your head 24/7 switching to it being all over in one evening; the next morning I was relieved! It is an anti climax but I believe that is due to exhaustion as Walter and I have worked so hard. I will be back on form Monday morning (tomorrow!)
How accepting would you say the fashion industry is when it comes to stylists?
There is a massive market for stylists but it is all about your contacts. I believe stylists are beginning to receive the profile and reputation they deserve although I know many in the industry, and out, do not know the hard work it involves; it is not always glamorous, and often not. As a stylist I have to know my fashion, my designers, my pr companies, my retail, my agents, my creatives, my celebrities, my business and production. There is a lot of self promotion involved and you only get somewhere if you truly believe in yourself.
Would you say you are celebrated and will received for your creative efforts?
I have learnt to never expect and to always make yourself happy and be proud. No one will do or give it to you and if they do it is a bonus. It is a tough industry and the good feedback Walter & I have received from our event has been met with smiles, relief and happiness. I am proud of what we achieved at our event and I hope our professionalism and creativity will be called for when it is needed. We have lots of post production to do and leads to follow up on besides new connections to establish further so we are still very busy.
When it comes to photo shoots, working with clients and different projects what are you strategies to getting the job done?
When taking new projects on I like to set up a meeting with my client and discuss what they want and what needs to be done, I make a list. I research, create moodboards and source a creative team that I see fit for the job in terms of skill and style. I am highly organised and use my studio to take time to concentrate on admin and creative license. I always create a call sheet with all contacts sent out to everyone involved and make sure everything is ready and fully prepared before a shoot. On the shoot I have strong art direction as I am always fully focused on the brief. I know what looks good and what doesn't and I pay attention to detail.
I've seen that you have done some work with FabAfriq magazine for their women's issue. How important would you say style is in relation to a woman's presentation?
Style is an expression of one's self and it says a lot about a person. Everyone like's to feel good and being well presented does exactly that. Presentation & style fall in sync with each other. With the right outfit, fit and style you can be confident even if you are not. Of course there are many different styles and everyone is different. A good example is a corporate outfit for work that many struggle to create appropriate yet stylish. There are many options out there you just need to know where & what to look for.
Who are your top five most stylish women or men at the moment and why?
I have decided to stick with women and break my top five into categories, apologies it turned into six.
Actress: Charlize Theron - I have followed her acting for years and her style has grown alongside. A prime example is her appearance at the Golden Globes 2012 wearing a beautiful haute couture gown by Dior - a real daring stunner that exuded feminine blushing romance and showed off her beautiful figure and legs.
Historic: Marilyn Monroe Ref - Photograph by Cecil Beaton, 22 February 1956, an obvious icon but none the less important, a famous curvy blonde that gave women confidence in themselves.
Fictional: Carrie Bradshaw - a stylish chameleon always trying something new & bold, never afraid of change.
Designer: Always Vivienne Westwood as my styling is very similar and outrageous given the creative license; volume, colours, prints, art, embellishment, punk!
Music: Twiggy - I have always loved her statement eye lashes, a real style staple, and she is always forward fashion thinking.
Current: Alexa Chung - Unique and effortless style from her makeup to her hair and clothes, this girl knows her own style!
Who would you like to collaborate with in the future? There are many big names that spring to mind but I am always meeting new and interesting people so I have much opportunity until I am established as a stylist to collaborate in music, art & fashion with smaller but just as talented up and coming artists, I don't want to limit myself. I always loved Alexander McQueen and still do so I would love to do something with Sarah Burton.
Where in London do you hang out when you aren't styling the elite ?
I really like the arty scene in Camden but sometimes it's just too far to go so I really like Soho & Nottinghill.
Where do you shop?
My favourite high street is Zara, online I like ASOS as there is always something stylish within budget and for online designer Cocosa. I am also a big fan of Cos & EBay for vintage buys! :)
How do you prepare for a challenging shoot?
I clear my head and try to focus fully on the job and deadline. I try and get an early night before the day of the shoot - although it doesn't always happen. Walter and I always put the styling on a model or mannequin and photograph so we can re-access if there is a problem with an outfit.
How important is location when you are creating looks?
The location really sets the mood of the shoot, it is essential to pick the right location for the mood-board but it doesn't necessarily have to be massive. I did a shoot in a graveyard and it was a very large area but we only shot scenes within a small area as there were really interesting shots in the one space. For Walter and I's exhibition shoot we chose an urban area with different background in contrast to the smart clothing which highlighted the garments quality.
If you had to sum up what purpose styling has in the fashion industry what would you say?
Stylists ensure designers are discovered, advertisements and editorial features fit the brief and the garments, looks and models are fabulous. Stylists are on the constant research for new ideas and trends which they sometimes set so we can often be at the forefront of fashion which is one big loop. I also work on art direction and shoot production to ensure my work is kept to the high standards I am happy with and that my clients expect.
Are there any areas of your work that you would like to expand on?
I would like to work on further editorials and it would be interesting to work full time for a while or part time for a magazine or pr agency to see what it is like on the other side and corporate side of the industry. Everything I have learnt and learn takes me on my journey and evolves my work raising standards throughout.
What looks/trends are you adapting to your work at the moment?
At the moment I am strong with the military theme as I love the pea jackets and the trend has not been round for a few years. It is styled in not an obvious way, more in features with buckles, boots, gold buttons, badges & khaki green. I am also loving the leather features on garments such as the dress I wore to our catwalk event by designer James Hock. Walter and I based our catwalk collection on these themes with use of bold colour.
You see your self as a travel enthusiast. How important is travel in relation to your creativity?
I love to travel and want to do so more! I love to meet new people, see what's going on in different countries around the world and work with different teams. I am always open to learning new processes and I find travelling exciting just like styling. The world is your oyster and Walter and I hope to be taking the world by storm with our styling...next stop America!
I've read that your find inspiration in many different areas and objects, some of which may not be seen as fashion linked. What has been the most significant inspiration of your career?
Zandra Rhodes was a big influence and inspiration for me as a teenager, I loved her bold prints and colour and her outrageous style. I set my goal to work for her one day. I did in 2007 for three months in London when she was designing the costumes and set for AIDA back in 2009. I also printed some of the glass mosaic pieces artist Andrew Logan used for his sculpture of Zandra which was thrilling to do. My influences now range from anything from reflections in the puddles to a piece in a gallery, garment I found in a charity shop to a photograph I found at a boot-sale or even what the lady is wearing opposite me on the tube. There are lots of ideas constantly around you.
How did this translate to a shoot or project and how was it received?
After working for Zandra Rhodes and a couple of other design houses I decided to create a fashion collection that drew together everything I was about and all my skills learnt...colour, theatre - influences from the changing room mirrors, red curtain, corsets and William Shakespeare's Midsummer Nights Dream then digital print, embellishment and beauty. I entitled the collection 'The Greatest Show on Earth' and the show was the beginning of my career.
My last dream was about:
A strange one but pastel balloons floating between clouds with bold bouncing balls and me standing in the middle of it all smiling in a blue dress...I told you it was strange...pretty imagery though! :)
My favourite drink is:
Ever changing but currently the Stylists cocktail - Cranberry, Vodka & Elderflower liqueur with a sugar rim - something Walter & I put together for our reception drink.
The best time to be in London is during:
The summer - so many events, drinking in the courtyards and decked gardens in the trendy pubs and Soho bars, fashion is let loose and not restricted by the weather!
Every stylist should have a:
Practically - an emergency kit with all the essentials, Wardrobe - a beautiful vintage dress!
If I had a muse from the past it would be:
Edith Piaf - an inspirational and truly talented icon.
On my iPod I'm listening to:
Tyler James & Pirupa
My fashion motto is:
Always be yourself and don't be afraid to wear what you feel, as long as you are confident you can wear anything!
Walter Stojash of WS Studio
Hi Walter. First of all congrats on your show at Jalouse went?
I think that question should be asked our guests, by the feedbacks everyone loved it, if so - i love it too!
How hectic were the preparation backstage?
Preparation backstage is always hectic, but by the time you get use to it.
When preparing for a big show what are the major details which are important for it to run smoothly?
The most important thing is the team, I am thankful for everyone who was involved and especially to Anna Marie, of course!
Describe your personal style?
I like to mix different styles in one and create something new for myself. Glamour + grunge, casual + dandy and classic + military! Taste is a muscle and everyone needs to train it.
When did you realise this is what you wanted to do in life?
It was after the age of 7 when things started changed. one day I went shopping with my Mum and decided that I am old enough to pick and choose my own clothes so I asked her if I could pick out my own outfit, which with a little reservation she allowed we did not shop in designer shops or even branded shops. it was an ordinary street market where I used to get my clothes from and I found it to be the most exciting place in town - the style and quality did not matter at that age. it was the notion that I can pick and style whatever I chose and then wear it that gave me the buzz even at that young age. And now working in fashion styling I have the same buzz as than.
What services do you offer and what's the best way for clients to find out if your services are right for them?
I offer Fashion Styling and Personal Styling.
as I have worked at both ends of the camera, my styling education and experience in industry I have expert knowledge of what needs to be done, along with spotting the pitfalls before they happen.
I'm responsible for fashion styling and directions for hair and make-up, ensuring that the production is as flawless as possible.
Are there any specific pieces of music or art that you have felt inspired by?
Inspiring is history of Art and costumes, like Renascence and Rococo, of course 20 century - i like to be back to 20s, 50s, 60s and 70s. Often I feel Inspired by new fashion designers and few established fashion houses and sometimes just of things which is around each of us in everyday.
How do you feel image and style fit in to modern society?
Of course. Fashion trends each season fades, as we know, but style is eternal.
How do you mentally prepare for meeting with a new client?
Trust in myself and meditation helps, most of the preparation follows after the meeting and knowing my client better.
From reading about you I've learned you are knowledgeable in the area of making people look good. How would you respond to a client that had concerns about their body image?
Well, I haven't meet anyone who would be satisfied with their body image, there are always things to improve by using right piece of clothes, shapes and colours. I always say to my clients that we all need to try our best than we will feel the best.
What has been your most stylish purchase of your career?
One way flight ticket from Milan to London.
What is next for you in relation to new projects?
I hope after our event and collaboration with Anna, strength and creativity of both of us, as like many world famous designers which works in a pair, we are going to rock styling standards and show the world most incredible projects, styling techniques and shows, to give an idea about our created brand AMT&WS.
If I wasn't a stylist I'd be a psychologist......
A stylist should never be without a style.......
My best feature is my thoughts and ideas.....
I never leave home without my keys......
My favourite city is London..............
Learn more :
Anna-Marie Trzebinski of AMT Styling
Walter Stojash of WS Studio.
Photos from the fashion show can be seen here >
Photo credit: Serguei Cherkassov, Drew Tommons, Studio Shots
