Interview With Celebrity Fashion Stylist Miranda Holder
Miranda Holder styled our recent fashion shoot at Ashberg House. She specialises in Fashion, Celebrity and Luxury Personal styling and is also a fashion writer and make up artist.
We asked her about her passions and favourite tips.
Why styling?
I have always been crazy about dressing up ever since I can remember.
I love the power of clothes to transform your look, which speaks volumes without saying a word. I originally trained as an actress, and putting the costume on would immediately transport me into my characters world. The right clothes will make a person feel fabulous and bulletproof. Image is so important not only in influencing how other people view you but how you see yourself.
I had a serious car accident years ago which changed everything for me. I had given up acting and was not creatively fulfilled at all. Suddenly I was faced with spending the rest of my life in a wheelchair. I fought back to regain the use of both legs and then changed my life. Having a career I love was top of that list. I haven’t looked back since.
What is a working day like for you?
No day is ever the same! I could be out shopping with a client, doing a wardrobe edit, prepping a fashion editorial (this can take days), styling a shoot, writing a fashion article or blog post, attending a fashion show or working as a make up artist. I love the variety. It makes every day exciting!
Do you prefer personal or fashion styling?
They are both brilliant for different reasons. I feel really privileged to work in both worlds, which both have their own challenges. Fashion is huge fun, I love the adrenalin during the prep phase, the atmosphere on a shoot and the chance to really be creative and sometimes quite whacky with the styling. Personal styling is all about the individual, not only working with their body shape and colour palette, but partnering with them to build a wardrobe that fits their personality and lifestyle. Everyone is so different, each client gets a bespoke service that can even include make up sessions and nutrition tips.
Nutrition tips?
(Laughs) Yes! I trained as a Naturopathic Nutritionist before I became a stylist.
What do you like most about your job?
My favourite thing has to be watching people’s confidence soar as you help them put killer looks together that are right for them. Oh and the buzz of a shoot – they are long hard days, but so much fun!
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Probably resisting buying all the gorgeous clothes and accessories I deal with on a daily basis! There are some incredible designers around and I just want it all!
Do you have a favourite designer?
How could I possibly with so much amazing talent around? No, it changes regularly. I am a huge champion of our British talent and am currently just a little obsessed with Georgia Hardinge. Her pleats are just breathtaking.
Do you have a favourite item in your wardrobe?
Well it changes almost daily according to my mood, but at the moment it’s a gorgeous Dries Van Noten faux fur jacket I bought after the shoot at Ashberg House. It’s so snuggly and the most fabulous purple colour that would look amazing over black. I can’t wait for it to be cold enough to wear it.
What styling advice would you give to men?
Body types aren’t just for women! Different labels cut for different builds and wearing the right cut will transform your look. If you are on the lean side, try Dunhill or Belstaff. Rugby builds should check out Hugo Boss. Make sure your jackets fit on the shoulders – so many larger guys wear jackets too large and they overhang on the shoulders which makes them look so scruffy. Find a good tailor and get everything adjusted to fit properly – it sharpens your look.
What styling advice would you give to women?
Don’t be a fashion victim. Understand which cuts suit your body type and stick to them. Invest in neutrals – we rarely have enough in our wardrobe – they go with everything and always look chic.
Mix designer with high street brands or vintage to create your own signature style.
What about make up advice?
Always use a primer. It smooths your skin and makes your make up last all day. Understand your features and how to use make up to balance your face.
Which wardrobe item is most worth investing in?
I always say a killer jacket completes a look.
Name three trends that are going to be big for A/W 17?
Red. Fur. Slouchy boots.
What is top of your fashion wish list?
YSL have the most amazing slouchy glitter boots this season. Despite costing £6000 there is already a long waiting list.
Who would you most like to style?
I would love to work with the actress Emma Stone. She is beautiful, has a great sense of style and I think we could have a lot of fun together.
To enquire further about Miranda’s services, please visit www.mirandaholder.london
