My Fashion Life: Antonia O’Brien

Journalist, TV presenter and fashion obsessive Antonia O’Brien knows a thing or two about style, and this season she’ll once again host Vodafone London Fashion Weekend’s Events Lounge. We caught up with Antonia to ask her about breaking into the fashion industry, and why she can’t get enough of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend. Just don’t offer her prosecco in the Luxe Lounge…

What makes Vodafone London Fashion Weekend the ultimate fashion day out?
AO'B: It’s the only event where you can see London Fashion Week collections on the catwalk, meet industry influencers and shop from the most desirable labels. What's not to love?

Which brands and designers are you most excited to shop at VLFW?
AO'B Ooh there are so many! THE OUTNET.COM’s styling is so fresh and exciting on the Trend Catwalk, plus you can shop online straight from the catwalk, which is dangerous. Joseph is one of my favourite go-to brands (FYI the best leather trousers).

What were your VLFW highlights/most memorable moments last season?
AO'B: Last season was one of the best yet: Hilary Alexander knows how to spin a great fashion story and talking to Eve Thomas (Style Director at THE OUTNET.COM) is always a pleasure. Eve is a great example of working hard in a difficult industry. Listening to Nicholas Oakwell's experience as a couturier was fascinating; it was action packed!

How would you sum up your personal style?
AO'B: Colourful, textured and tailored with a fierce heel. 

What¹s the best bit of the job?
AO'B: Hosting the Events Lounge means I meet so many interesting people from stylists to milliners, lingerie designers, bloggers and couturiers. For someone who is nosey and fascinated by people it is a dream job.

What¹s the worst bit of the job?
AO'B: Trying to resist the prosecco in the Luxe Lounge. It's impossible!

What¹s your best tip for surviving fashion week?
AO'B: Fashion week shows and parties are a test of commitment and endurance: water, chewing gum, emergency flats and lip gloss.

If you weren¹t talking to us right now, what would you be doing?
AO'B: I could be doing a number of things: writing for my Huffington Post column, filming a '7 Reasons' video for my YouTube LIVE channel or colouring in with my niece Elodie.

What sets the London fashion industry apart?
AO'B: London has gone from being the naughty little sister of New York, Milan and Paris to a serious international player; we have some of the most exciting talent who are now seen on royalty and the red carpet across the world.

What is your one piece of advice for anyone trying break into the fashion industry?
AO'B: It is so important to remember that everyone has been at the bottom, and in the fashion industry that is often unpaid work experience. I learnt that being positive, polite and happy to do the tea run is a good place to start. That and don't be afraid to ask questions. 

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
AO'B: There have been a few where I've felt like a total imposter (you know what I mean?); presenting the BAFTA red carpet for E! Entertainment and OSCARS coverage for Sky were career pinch-me moments. Also, I host at this fantastic fashion event at Somerset House ...

If you could dress like anyone, who would it be and why?
AO'B: I will avoid the obvious Moss and Chung and choose the divine Julianne Moore for her killer red-carpet style. I dream of wearing the Tom Ford and Givenchy Couture by Riccardo Tisci gowns she's worn. She has such natural style and swagger ¬– I love that.

Which s/s 2015 trends are you most excited about? Which items are you saving up for?
AO'B: At the moment I am on the hunt for the right utilitarian one-piece, so if you see one just shout. I'm also looking forward to mastering how to wear leather in summer (potentially very hot, right?). Oh, and silky sporty separates.

What is your fancy dress costume of choice?
AO'B: Last year my boyfriend and I went as Stewie and Bryan from Family Guy. Yes, I was the bald baby. No, you can't see a photo. 

Tell us a joke…
Q. How do you find Will Smith in the snow?
A. You look for the fresh prints.

You asked...

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