Top Hollywood stylist talks TIFF red carpet

Have you ever wondered who's behind some of the most gorgeous looks sported by celebrities such as Charlize Theron, Scarlett Johansson and Julianne Moore? We go behind the scenes to chat with Leslie Fremar, Hollywood’s "most powerful stylist," who topped this year’s list of "25 Most Powerful Stylists" compiled by the The Hollywood Reporter. Leslie spills the beans on what to expect at this year’s TIFF red carpet galas and how every Canadian lady can dress to impress for a gala event in her life.

You have styled icons such as Charlize Theron, Reese Witherspoon and Scarlett Johansson. How can Canadian women achieve that glam look?
The tips that I give most of my clients really start with beauty – getting a lot of rest, eating healthy, hydrating, and exercising. All these things play a part in looking beautiful. On the day of an event, we all hang out, eat, rest and take care of ourselves. It definitely plays a part in getting red carpet ready. I personally, on the day of an event, will eat carrot or hummus or these amazing new Special K popcorn chips because I crave salt and need a healthy alternative. I drink lots of water, especially coconut water. I think all these things play a part in feeling good and make you look your best.

What would you say are this season’s hot red carpet trends? What can we expect to see on the red carpet during TIFF this year?
We are seeing a lot of cut-outs, sheer paneling and midriffs. On the TIFF red carpet we might see a lot of cocktail dresses and a little bit of shoulder pads. The great thing about Toronto is that it’s the least formal of all the festivals. Actresses really love coming to Toronto because it has a cool laid back vibe to it where they can wear a simple cocktail dress or a strapless one without feeling the need to wear an over-the-top gown.

You have a perfect red carpet track record. So tell us, how can women get ready for a big event, like a red carpet, in their own lives?
I think one of the important things women could do when figuring out what their look is going to be for a big night out is do a little research. That’s what I do. I look for inspiration – look through magazines. I would advise women to shop with a friend so you can get a second opinion. Stay away from major trends. I think women need to shop for their body type, not for specific trends. Then you’ll be satisfied with the outcome.

What is the one style/beauty item that every woman must own?
I have lots of tools that I use to style. I have a little kit that every woman should have like double stick tape, mint rollers, needle and thread – it’s definitely handy to have around. I tailor everything for my clients. Woman should keep that in mind when shopping – maybe buy something less expensive and use the extra money to make the clothes fit properly. I would also invest in a good face moisturizer to look fresher and younger.

Can you share with us some of your style dos and don’ts?
One of my huge don’ts is to encourage women not to follow trends but to use them more as inspiration. They don’t work for everyone. Right now we are seeing a lot of cut-outs and midriff-bearing clothes. This doesn’t necessarily work for everyday women or all body types. Just wear something flattering for your body type. My dos would be to have fun with your clothes and take some risks. Find shapes that work for you, maybe try different colors or patterns – it’s really about understanding your body.

What was the best fashion advice you ever received?
Just to trust your instincts. If you love something, don’t listen to anyone else.

What’s the biggest challenge you faced when styling a celebrity?
I have made some custom things that haven’t worked out and had to scramble last minute to find something that would work. That was definitely one of my most challenging moments. The beauty about styling is that there’s a time frame that they have to walk out the door.

Have you ever convinced someone to wear an item that they wouldn’t normally wear?
I have a strong opinion and I do vocalize that but I definitely don’t convince anyone to wear something they’re not comfortable in. The key is to find something that I love and that they love.

Any celebrity you would love to style?
Yeah, I’d love to get my hands on a lot of them. Maybe Kate Middleton! But I’m really busy with my clients right now. I’m so fortunate for the women I have and I’m excited to work with them.

As a stylist, do you remember the first moment you felt like you had made it?
I think as a freelance stylist, you never really feel 100 per cent. But I do feel confident in my work and I’m good at what I do. So I just trust in that feeling more than knowing that I made it.

Who was the last celebrity you styled who really wowed you on the red carpet?
I love working with Charlize because every time she steps out of the house she has a wow moment. It’s really fun to work with her on the red carpet because she is very passionate about it and she loves clothes. She loves playing the part on the red carpet – it’s always a thrill to watch her do it.

Any advice for aspiring stylists?
Work really hard and do your research; know the business and the references. Take your time and don’t be in a rush. I think hard work pays off and people in the business recognize that. ~Marriska Fernandes

Tags:

Charlize Theron, Leslie Fremar, red carpet, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson

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