Vogue interviews: the outfits that landed careers
Deciding what to wear to a job interview is daunting, but at a Fashion behemoth like Vogue, it’s a whole different level of pressure. The stories of aspiring Fashion professionals navigating the cutthroat world of high Fashion, one outfit at a time, reveal more than just sartorial choices.
Remember Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada? Her disastrous attempt at a Vogue interview serves as a cautionary tale. But for many, a perfectly imperfect outfit proved to be the key to unlocking their dream jobs at the world's most influential Fashion publication.
From prada to ballet flats: real women, real looks
Christian Allaire, Senior Fashion & Style Writer, recounts flying back from Europe and snagging a job with a surprisingly affordable Prada shirt paired with a smart suit. “Professional but fun,” he explains.
Margaux Anbouba, Senior Beauty & Wellness Editor, faced a last-minute scramble. A chaotic morning, a sudden dress change, and a quick trip to Jenna Perry Hair for a blowout – all culminated in landing her dream role. She recalls the stress, the unexpected kindness from fellow beauty editor Emily Ratajkowski, and the Oura ring confirming the extreme stress levels.
Arden Fanning Andrews, Beauty Editor-at-Large, defied the conventional wisdom – no designer spending, no specific hair or makeup rules. Instead, she presented her authentic self in a vintage Elizabeth & James heels, thrifted pants, and a borrowed sweater. “I stood by that look,” she says, highlighting the value of authenticity.
Jane Chun, Senior Digital Line Editor, chose a classic Ralph Lauren Collection dress and Ferragamo heels, a decision that garnered a friendly smile from Grace Coddington herself. A moment of validation that set the stage for her career.
Madeline Fass, Commerce Director, admits to not documenting her interview outfits, relying on a mix of Nicole Miller internship finds and Proenza Schouler sale items. She notes that her current style – long, skinny scarves – remains remarkably consistent.
Hannah Jackson, Fashion Writer, opted for a simple Banana Republic dress and a Samantha-esque velvet bow. It may not have been high fashion, but it worked.
Irene Kim, Production & Editorial Associate, faced a unique challenge: a pandemic interview. A Ganni sweater vest and jean shorts proved surprisingly suitable for a Zoom meeting. The piece ended up at The RealReal, a testament to the fast-paced nature of the industry.
Chloe Malle, Head of Editorial Content, endured multiple interviews before landing the role, fueled by the pressure of not wearing black. A last-minute trip to Barneys led to a winning Maria Cornejo jumpsuit and A.P.C. pumps. “It felt like a real 'I made it' moment,” she reveals.
Chloe Schama, Senior Editor, navigated a style dilemma with a friend's timely intervention. A switch to a Maria Cornejo jumpsuit and A.P.C. pumps saved the day.
These stories highlight a crucial point: While trends shift, a confident presentation and a genuine connection are ultimately what matter. The outfits weren’t just clothes; they were statements of intent, embodiments of ambition, and sometimes, just the right fit.
The fashion industry thrives on innovation and evolution; so too do those who aspire to be a part of it. The lessons learned – and the outfits worn – offer a glimpse into what it truly takes to succeed in this dynamic field.
The quest to find the perfect look for a Vogue interview is not simply about fashion; it’s about projecting confidence and embodying the spirit of the brand.