We’re so excited to (finally) give a warm Rue welcome to our new fashion director, Loredana. She has over 15 years in the industry, a knack for storytelling, and a belief that fashion, above all, should be fun – and we couldn’t agree more. So we’re letting you in on all her secrets below, from style advice to her vintage obsession.
How did you get started in your career?
I hadn’t been to New York until I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology. But I never thought I wouldn’t end up in fashion. I started interning nonstop for various publications and I ended up having an internship every semester. It was such an integral part of getting my foot in the door, making connections, and meeting my mentors.
Now that you’re a fashion director, what is a typical day like for you in the office?
I usually meet with the merchants in the morning to go over what the latest trends are and what they’re seeing in the market. Or I might also go to market myself. I’m constantly looking at blogs and Instagram for inspiration for new events that will excite the Rue Member – it’s amazing how much quicker it is than leafing through magazines!
You have a very coveted position – what’s your favorite part about what you do?
Seeing the story come to life! We put in so much effort, but it truly pays off when you see the finished product.
And what is your ideal wear-to-work outfit?
Because I’m a stylist by nature, I’m always dressing other people in very trendy, editorial looks. So when it comes to my own outfits, I usually stick to my standby menswear-inspired pieces. I love the easy borrowed-from-the-boys aesthetic. There’s nothing cleaner and more downright functional for hectic days than a button-front, boyfriend cardigan, and jeans.
What is one thing you never leave the house without (besides your favorite outfit)?
I never take off my jewelry. I like to layer personal items I’ve collected over the years (like my mother’s wedding band) and things I’ve picked up on my travels. It makes every outfit feel a little nostalgic (in a good way).
So is jewelry at the top of your holiday wish list?
Actually, it’s a toss-up between a Chanel black-and-gold sequined bag and some Givenchy biker boots. I’m obsessed with both. And, of course, another good year with my senior rescue dog, Lenny, who is 18 years old!
If you had to choose, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
I live my life by one simple thought: No is not really an option. I have just never really thought of not doing what I love. I always try to work from a place of yes, instead of questioning is this going to work?
Last, but not least: If you didn’t have this career, what would you be doing?
I’d probably become a hoarder of vintage clothing. I used to sell my stuff as a hobby on the weekends and I really enjoyed it.
Now that you’ve been introduced, it’s time to shop her picks. Our Loredana’s Holiday Picks: Chosen by Our Fashion Director Boutique opens Saturday, November 28, at 3PM ET, and closes Tuesday, December 1, at 3PM ET.
By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer
Image via Rue La La.
