Q&A: Eve Thomas

 

 

If you weren’t talking to us right now, what would you be doing?
I would be editing looks ahead of our next editorial shoot. We have four shoots happening this week – two in London and two on location in sunny South Africa – and our fashion cupboard is heaving with beautiful product.

What’s the best bit of the job?
The variety. As Fashion Director I work with teams across the business. I may start the day by planning an upcoming shoot with our Creative Team before discussing incoming collections with our team of buyers based in London, New York and Shanghai, and end the day briefing our in-house design team on key colours and silhouettes for our private label, Iris & Ink. No two days are the same at THE OUTNET.COM – I wouldn’t have it any other way!

What’s the most challenging bit of the job?
The most challenging part of the job is making product from previous seasons work for current trends. It is also one of the most satisfying parts of the job and one that our talented team of stylists does exceptionally well.

What is your one piece of advice for anyone trying break into the fashion industry?
Intern! It can be tough as positions are often unpaid but the best way to learn is on the job. You’ll pick up lots of new skills and if you do well people will remember you when a position comes up. I began my career with a one-week internship on The Times fashion desk and ended up staying for five years.

What’s on your playlist right now?
While on set I love to play fun, upbeat tracks to get everyone going. A little Stevie Wonder or Michael Jackson never fails. It’s great to find something that everyone can sing along to.

What’s your best tip for surviving fashion week?
Enjoy it! Fashion week is non-stop as there is a lot to see in very little time. Although it can be exhausting, fashion week is a time when London truly comes alive. There is so much talent and creativity to revel in – remember that you are privileged to be a part of it.

What sets the London fashion industry apart?
London is home to some of the best art colleges in the world. The training here is second to none. We also have an amazing blend of incredibly talented high-end designers and a wonderfully creative and design-driven high street, which you just don't find anywhere else in the world.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Getting to do a job that I love whilst raising my daughter. Being a working mother is definitely a balancing act but I feel very privileged to do both.

If you could dress anyone, who would it be and why?
I would love to dress Kate Bosworth. She always manages to look both fashion-forward and incredibly elegant. She is also as effortlessly chic on the red carpet as she is dressed down, which is a rare thing. I don’t think she’s ever put a fashionable foot wrong.

Which trends are you most excited to wear in 2015 and why?
The biggest trend for spring 2015 is the resurgence of ‘70s glamour – from boho luxe at Chloé to glam rock at Saint Laurent, it featured in almost every show. I’ve always loved flares and have just bought a new pair from Frame. I’ll also be investing in a jumpsuit and a little white dress – both key pieces and the answer to effortless summer dressing.

At the opposite end of the style spectrum, we are seeing a return to clean, crisp denim. Stella McCartney, Fendi and Valentino all showed a modern, elevated take on denim that feels more on-duty than off. A pair of denim culottes is top of my wish list and provides a modern alternative to the distressed jeans we have seen over the last few seasons.

Who are your designers to watch in 2015?
I’m keen to see how Christopher Raeburn continues to build on his signature sporty style in his womenswear collection. Thomas Tait is another exciting young London designer. His clean silhouettes and beautiful use of colour feel very modern. Marques’Almeida is also one to watch. They have only been around for a few seasons but have had a huge impact on street style trends.

What is your fancy dress costume of choice?
A flapper girl. The 1920s are my favourite fashion era – I love the easy silhouette and the sheer decadence of it all. I’m lucky enough to own two of my great grandmother’s evening dresses from the 1920s. I used to wear them regularly but they are in very delicate condition these days so they are carefully packed away until a very special occasion arises.

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