HIGH PROFILE: NAZY MEKNAT
WHERE DID YOU START AND WHAT WAS YOUR BIG BREAK?
After I graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, I started as an intern for a stylist. My big break came when a friend of mine set up an interview for me with model and actress, Milla Jojovich, and I got the job.
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL PROCESS OF STYLING CLIENTS?
It starts with a consultation. I need to know their age, lifestyle, job, likes and dislikes so I can dress each individual before the pulling, shopping and fitting.
WHAT TREND DO YOU SEE NOW THAT HAS TO GO?
Lady Loafers! The stacked, chunky kitten heel is just not doing it for me.
WHAT IS HOT FOR FALL/WINTER?
From belts and shoes, to sweaters and leather jackets, this season will be everything maroon.
DURING OSCAR SEASON, HOW MANY CLIENTS DO YOU TAKE ON FOR EACH EVENT?
No more than two. If you want to do your best, you can’t spread yourself too thin between too many clients. It’s best to spend most of your time and energy on one or two clients and give them your best service.
WHAT WAS THE MOST EXCITING PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED IN?
The Eiffel tower. There is nowhere in the world like Paris, especially to a fashion enthusiast.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG STYLISTS TRYING TO MAKE THEIR MARK IN THE BUSINESS?
Don’t shy away from the idea of interning; it’s the best way to learn the ins and outs of this business. This is a tough business to be in and can be frustrating, so make sure you love it and have passion for it. Work hard, stay true to yourself and don’t get discouraged.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOTEL?
The Plaza in New York City and Sunset Tower in Los Angeles.
DO YOU SEE YOURSELF EVER DEVELOPING YOUR OWN LINE OF CLOTHING?
As of now I am pretty happy with just styling, but I never say never, who knows what the future may bring?
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?
My very first job after graduating from fashion school was do- ing visual displays, dressing mannequins and taking care of the overall look of a department store. Of course I started as an assistant.
WHEN YOU HAVE EXTRA MONEY, WHAT DO YOU SPLURGE ON?
Traveling. I love to travel and of course, shop.
WHO IS THE PERSON WHO HAS MOST IMPACTED YOUR LIFE?
In my personal life my sister has definitely been the person I have always looked up to, and her strength and compassion is unreal. In my professional life, Stacy London has had the most impact on me professionally. I had the pleasure of working with her for a little while, but long before I worked with her I ad- mired Stacy, her work and her personality. I looked up to her and learned so much from her about how to be a true wardrobe stylist.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FILM?
Django Unchained is one of my favorites and all Audrey Hepburn movies.
