What the Flare?!

As the seasons evolve so does fashion (but I am sure you realized that for yourself already). Especially this spring season. This spring season, fashion does not have many barriers. The bra-less movement has come back bigger than ever; mixing patterns has become a huge trend; and asymmetrical cuts have made a comeback, trickling down to the streets. However, there is one common style that is trending. Have you noticed what it is (other than the hint from the title of this post)? Well I will give you a hint… it rhymes with “dare” (there’s some irony behind the reason I picked that particular word. Stay tuned)!

Whether your style is city chic or boho vibes you cannot argue that flare is definitely the trend of the season. Like the 70’s… bigger is better! DVF is one of many brands that is taking this trend by the horns and incorporating it into high fashion. DVF has always be recognized for taking bold risks, using vibrant colors, and innovating elegant cuts. And as DVF continues to be recognized for its unique and elaborate designs the brand continues to set the pace.

Other high fashion brands such as Chanel and Gucci have also got creative and took interest with this trend. From unique flared pants to bell-sleeve tops, it is recognized. Even fast fashion brands such as H&M, Forever 21, and Zara have also took initiative with this trend.

The thing I have noticed about the modern flare trend is that many women are intimidated by it. Majority of women are still very adapt to tight-fitted clothes. Last years’ big trends were leggings, denim shorts, and bodycon dresses. So, you can see why some women are having a hard time adjusting to a style that is the complete opposite of what they are used to.

Being a personal stylist I often notice some women want to try more flared clothes but are hesitant to try them. The same women are hesitant to try ruffles and scalloped edges which are also huge in fashion right now. When the ones who take the courage to try them on they discover that they actually love the flared style. I even experienced this while styling my own sister. So, it is not that women do not trust personal stylists, fashion influencers, or even brands such as Gucci… it is simply that they are timid to try them.

So, my question is, what is there to be afraid of? What the flare?!! Fashion changes night and day. Do not let a little bit of flare intimidate you, ladies. If you’ve been interested in even considering the new flared look I encourage you to try it! Better yet, I DARE you. See what I did there? 😉

But all jokes aside, we live in an era where there is constant and never-ending change. Many styles can be hit or miss. There is so much versatility and various perspectives in fashion today. And that is truly the beautiful thing about it! Anything goes when you have the right styling.

Some days I wear flared pants or a batwing sleeve romper and other days I wear leggings with a fitted top. I enjoy taking risks with both. And just like fashion, every woman is versatile and has their own perspective. It is such a revolutionary and beautiful thing! I personally like both tight-fitted and flared styles. Which do you prefer?

Here are some examples of trendy flared looks:

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https://www.talever.com/2018-strapless-wide-leg-striped-linen-jumpsuits-with-pockets.html

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https://www.talever.com/talever-sexy-strap-deep-v-neck-sleeveless-cold-back-women-jumpsuits.html 

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https://www.talever.com/chic-tied-off-the-shoulder-pleated-floral-print-romper-jumpsuits.html

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https://www.talever.com/white-ruffle-v-neck-cute-a-line-cotton-casual-dress.html

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https://www.talever.com/gray-round-neck-cold-back-jumpsuit.html

How to Land an Internship with DVF

Picture2Summer has finally arrived! Congrats Class of 2017! Go Cougs! Whether you have just graduated or finished school for the summer, we are all happy to be out! Now that it is summer it is a great time to land an internship. Internships are great way to gain workplace and leadership experience. Although not all internships are paid they are always a great way to get one step ahead in the workforce. Most career fields are very competitive especially my industry, the fashion industry. However an internship will provide the experience and networks to improve anyones credentials and make them a stronger candidate for future jobs.

I will be starting my internship this summer when I return from Milan. Although this is my first internship I strongly recommend doing more than one. Essentially the more internships you do the more experience you gain. In some college majors such as mine, Apparel Merchandising, internships are required before receiving their diploma. Undergrads in my program (Apparel Merchandising, Design, and Textiles) typically complete their internships their after Junior or Senior year. My friend and fellow WSU alumna member, Keena Hudson, is one undergrad who decided to do her internship her Junior year. She took interest in Diane Von Furstenberg’s Technical Design/Production internship. When I asked her why she picked DVF she said, “I really liked what the company stood for, women’s empowerment and growth. This company was started by a strong female entrepreneur, Diane herself. I also really liked how the company is involved in charity efforts to promote women’s leadership.” But of course, I had to find out more!

Getting to intern at DVF in New York City would be any fashion major’s dream! Like myself, many of you are probably wondering how Keena landed an internship with such a legendary company. When I asked her she said, “I actually had to email a DVF assistant about internships there. I looked through the website and found contact info. I really just googled companies I liked and internships available.” Keena told me a lot about her experience at DVF. She expressed that the most valuable things she learned was “learning to know when to ask for help and advice.” She also said she realized that “it’s very important to stay connected with your coworkers and the people who mentor you. They have a lot of connections on their own and are a great first connection.” I asked Keena what advice she would give to future interns, she stated, “I advice students to have a website of all the things they did and learned as an undergrad and also to be very diligent in applying to internships. Keep your options open and apply everywhere. Every internship experience is worth it no matter the size of the company.”

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Thanks to Google contacting the right people to land an internship at DVF or any luxury brand is easy. Being diligent in applying to internships is the key! A strong application and interview is also needed to actually get the position of course. Luckily for you I have a few interview tips that have helped me land my internship and past jobs!

Interview tips:

1. Research the company you are interviewing for. Companies are looking for candidates who know about the company and have genuine interest in being a part of it. It always good to stay up to date with what’s going on in your industry. nrf.com is a good reference for the fashion industry.

2. Practice the S.T.A.R. (Situation, Task, Action, Result) Method. Behavioral-based questions are asked a lot in interviews. The interviewer wants to get a good idea of how you interact with others and handle situations. Google the S.T.A.R. Method for more info!

3. Refresh your memory of past or sample interview questions. You can never be too prepared. Refreshing your memory of interview questions will help you have an idea of what things are important to mention about yourself and not feel so nervous.

4. Boost your confidence! Convince yourself that you have already got the job. Confidence is a huge key in being a strong candidate.

5. Brag about yourself! An interview is the time to really sell yourself as the top candidate for the job. Don’t get too carried away of course. You want to make yourself memorable, coachable and qualified!

I hope these tips helped! Let me know what interview-prep techniques work best for you!

Fun Fact:

Every summer DVF has company parties. In 2016 (the year Keena interned there) it was at the Statue of Liberty. Keena was actually able to meet Diane herself and walk up to the statues crown level. It was an exclusive event for DVF even though the statue had been closed previously.

Photo Courtesy of Keena Hudson