CHAPTER FRIDAY | BECAUSE TODAY IS THE DAY

Career Career Tips Fashion 3 August 2015

Ask an expert: Topshop stylist Sita on day-to-night dressing

There are few people who can put together an on-point clothing rack quite like TOPSHOP stylist Sita Sunar (27) can. She describes the way to professionalism as ‘a good balance between passion, excitement, creativity and empathy’. Hear, hear! We first met backstage on set for Glamour, when I stripped down half naked. Sita was getting her make-up done so I figured she was a model and used to other girls changing. We had a good laugh when it turned out she was one of the other people in a story and instantly hit it off.

As a stylist in the Topshop store, Sita often gets asked about day-to-night pieces. As that suits Chapter Friday perfectly, I asked her what pieces to invest in. Let’s go!

What jobs did you have before becoming a stylist for Topshop? Tell us a little about your career path.
Sita: “After working as a flight attendant and Relations Manager for a hotel, I decided it was time to start all over again and took a leap of faith. I went back to school to pursue a career in international management.

Thanks to my dear friend Shilair, I landed a styling internship at a modelling and hosting agency where I had the opportunity to get to know very talented and creative people. Being exposed to big events and being able to assist during exciting concepts, meant that I learnt quickly. I decided to become a freelance stylist and worked on editorials and collaborated with designers and photographers to work on a concept portfolio. After a year I was freelancing for Pandasale. In no time, I teamed up with TOPSHOP.”

You once told me why you moved to The Netherlands. It had something to do with men…
Sita: “Yes, totally true! I moved here for the love of my life. Moving abroad is always a challenge, especially if you are unsure whether it will help you with your career goals. I worked hard to make it happen.”

Where do you find your inspiration?
Sita: “Through fashion magazines, websites such as style.com, blogs and browsing Pinterest is the way to drive inspiration and know the current trends and the industry insights.

What are your office do’s and don’ts?
The DO’s
Sita: “I truly believe how you make others feel, is a reflection about you. Feel beautiful and have fun while making others feel gorgeous. Another: honesty is the key to loyalty. Always give or share your honest opinion, keep in mind there is a thin line between being honest and rude.”

The DON’TS
Sita: “Outside the comfort zone is the magic zone, so don’t lose yourself in being boring. Find new challenges and ways to inspire your team and customers. I am always excited to show my favourite pieces and trends to my clients. However, it’s important to give them their space and time to accept, reject and step outside their comfort zone.”

About day-to-night dressing. What are your top 5 investments to take things from the office to after hours?
1. A crisp white shirt
2. Flared jeans
3. line knee length skirt
4. A pair of tailored trousers
5. Nike Air Force One’s in white

Name your biggest fashion mistake ever.
Sita: “Like everyone, I have experimented a lot with my style - particularly as a teenager. This one is hilarious, I was a redhead with brunette elements combined with a mohawk… I guess it’s important to learn from your mistakes, haha.”

What are your favourite on-trend pieces right now?
Sita: “To celebrate my love for the ’70s, my favourite pieces right now include a pair of flared jeans, wooden clogs (a great choice when running between office floors all day) and a sleeveless summer coat (because of the unexpected showers here in The Netherlands). I also adore summer leather sandals and suede shorts.”

If you could pick out three timeless, transitional pieces that work both day and night, what items would it be?
Sita: “Three items that are always possible to dress up and down in my opinion are: a knee-length A-line skirt, a classic button down white shirt and a pair of well-tailored trousers.”

Name three quick wardrobe changes to make any outfit cocktail night ready!
Sita: “To start: lose a layer or two, for instance your day coat or blazer. If you want to keep the coat on for chilly summer nights, then roll your sleeves up for added cool. Definitely, change your office bag to a going out clutch. Add some bright lip colour and put on your dancing shoes!”

You have five minutes to pick a dazzling look for an important dinner. What is your safe go-to piece?
Sita: “You can never go wrong with a T-shirt, knee-length A-line skirt (hello again!) and cool pair of heels, preferably kitten heels after a long day at work.”

Name an accessory that turns a good evening look into a great one.
Sita: “Accessorising is the key. I personally love statement necklaces and earrings. The bigger the better. Wearing an Indian inspired chandelier is my way to own the look.”