The Experts

Every morning I sit at my computer with my first cup of coffee for the day and look at what was worn to premiers, to performances, to run errands, first dates, guest appearances, down the catwalk, photo shoots...  I love to see what others are wearing and how they have put it all together.  Every little detail is so well planned and thought out.  There is a 50/50 chance of an outfit being a "celebrated red carpet moment" or signing you up for the worst dressed list (I attempt to have my name on as many lists as possible, but even I know that the worst dressed isn't always a good place to be).  While some people just have the intuition to put together that perfect look, many have help and assistance from a stylist. Many of these stylist and outfits have inspired me to take more risks in my own style.  A challenge that I have enthusiastically embraced since moving to the fashion capital a little over a year ago.  I've chosen some of my favorite stylists that have consistently dressed their clients in those celebrated and unforgettable outfits.

Rachel Zoe

Many of you will roll your eyes and snicker at the thought of Zoe being on the list, but you have to admit, the woman knows her fashion!  Like everyone else I first took notice of Zoe when she was schlepping around with and dressing Nicole Richie.  Again you have to admit, Nicole came out from one event to the next looking incredible.  She even looked stunning just going to grab coffee.  Now with her own reality show on Bravo, a tell all fashion and style book (Style From A to Zoe), and a clientele list that includes some of the best dressed women (Deborah Messing, Joy Bryant, Anne Hathaway, Demi Moore) you really have to give the woman kudos for obviously doing something right.  You may hate to lover her, or love to hate her... But Rachel has made her mark in fashion and will continue to send gorgeously clad celebs down the red carpet and out to grab coffee IN STYLE.

  

Tina Chai

I love Chai's vision and determination to push designers to challenge their own creativity.  As assistant designer to Thakoon she has honed her skills and eye for perfection in details.  Chai's style sense in innate. Her time spent working with designers has only opened up her creativity and imagination even more... if that's possible.  She has a discerning eye that allows her to perfectly edit when styling runway shows or celebrities.  Not only is Chai an assistant designer at Thakoon, but she also styles designer collections for the runway (Lela Rose and Band of Outsiders).  In Rose's 09 collection was reviewed as "The Best Collection Ever," which I'm sure Chai had some influence in.  The dip-dyed chiffon and slim cut MC Hammer pants... GENIUS!

    

Nicole Chavez

Nicole is responsible for dressing many of the young Hollywood stars (many clients from the WB channel).  All seem to be adorable and cute and so pristine in their appearance.  Teacher knows best in this instance.  Nicole's client and friend, Rachel Bilson, has recently partnered with DKNY to design a collection.  Nicole's style is very lady in a girly and age appropriate way.  It's never too much and it's never over the top.  It's always the right amount of color or sparkle and the garment cut and shape is never overwhelming.  Her style isn't often about big risk, but is praised for being just right in every way at exactly the right moment!

  

Mariel Haenn

Mariel Haenn's name might be new to many, but her styling has not gone unnoticed or highlighted.  Haenn is responsible for styling Jada Pinkett Smith and Rihanna.  Rihanna has strutted her stuff to the pages of every magazine and best dressed list with the help of this uber talented stylist.  Rihanna's rocker/hip hop style has started so many trends... About as many trends at America's Next Top Model reruns on Mtv and VH1 combined.  Haenn has a way of making glamour look effortless.  Granted she has flawless canvases to begin with... but the look always seems so personable... She takes her time getting to know each client and what their personalities are like.  Keeping in mind that all personalities vary on any given day.  She doesn't just throw a dress or jeans and leather jacket on someone just because there is a designer label sewn in the back.  She takes into account lifestyle, comfort, and price tags.  Haenn is not afraid to send someone out in H&M or American Apparel.  Such a breath of fresh air!  It's about time stylist start showing middle America that you can look good, put together, and stylish without having to spend designer prices. I could go on and on about my love and admiration for Haenn's styling and interpretations, but a picture is worth a thousand words!