You hear about all these stylists that work with the celebrities — it’s not an easy job (and even less easy for the assistant) but it’s also pretty fun to see what’s coming down the runway and seeing all the fashions up close or even styling a fashion show– but still no matter what a stylist does, the proximity to the fab fashions means they accumulate unusual pieces and often their closets are overflowing too. What’s a girl (or guy) to do? Here’s what Mary Alice Haney, Blake Lively’s (and also the SATC girls, Eva Mendes, Molly Sims) stylist does. She hits HIPSWAP the latest iteration in clearing out clothing, accessories and even home furnishings since Etsy and Ebay. It’s faster, easier and more personal- without a ton of fees.
I loved that with HipSwap I’m able to go through my house and say “I’m not using that,” or go through my closet and say “I haven’t worn that in
forever,” and easily sell it online. And I love that the proceeds from the items I’m selling go to a great charity, KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program), as I’m really passionate about education and changing the education system.
As a stylist you have access to tons of clothing and accessories often before they are on counters: After you have selected your “picks”, how do you determine (as the season progresses or is over) what to keep and what to
ditch?
No matter who I’m styling, whether it’s a celebrity or my sisters, I believe that fashion is really about having a point of view. You really should start going through your closet regularly and if you haven’t worn something in a year, set it aside. If the next year comes around and you still haven’t worn it, it’s time to put it on HipSwap.
Have you tried Ebay or other options to curate your fashion collection and current wardrobe and how does HipSwap differ from the other options ?
I am constantly hunting for great vintage pieces for my clients and my own wardrobe (and home), and have definitely bought from eBay in the past. The thing about other marketplaces like eBay is that they don’t necessarily make it easy or enjoyable to find great new pieces. What I love about HipSwap is that it enables me to shop for AND buy items (not the same thing!), the way I would in a wonderful curated boutique. The highly-visual and personalized experience of HipSwap enables me to browse great items and then easily buy them too.
What things would you suggest that fashionistas looking at the changing season look at in their closet to eliminate?
Classics tend to move from season to season, so think about what’s in your closet – whether that’s a great coat, beautiful purse or amazing pair of boots – that you’ll keep forever and can style in different ways by adding
different items or accessories. Get rid of anything that was highly trendy or really indicative of a certain season (e.g. ponchos, gaucho pants, tie-dye/ombre, etc) that you haven’t worn in a year or more. And if it still has a tag after 5 years- get rid of it!
What items would you suggest that fashionistas look for given that fall is here (or almost here in Cal) to add to their closet and could they find some of those items on HipSwap?
LEATHER LEATHER LEATHER. If you are going to buy one item find a great leather pant or a great leather top
What were/are the key items you have kept in your closet as staples that maybe might need some updates in terms of accessories? What would you add to them to freshen up the look?
I have some great classics in my closet, including vintage pieces (dresses & jackets) that I found hunting online and in some of my favorite vintage stores. They can be made current again with a large collar or necklace, sky-high pair of heels or a dramatic brooch or pair of earrings. I also love to cut off great vintage pieces and make them more modern and sexy.
What prompted you to use HipSwap.com? How did you get involved in it?
Is there a favorite trend or collection that you would hunt HipSwap for items to add to your collection?
To me fashion is an art form, always evolving and always changing. I love that you look back and see what’s old is new. If you are looking online for great “gently-worn” pieces, best to look for classic items from another era than something used from just last season. Those will stand the test of time, and won’t look like you plucked them from the back of your best friend’s closet.
Has there been anything that you thought “why did I select this item”? If so, what was it and what made you realize it wasn’t ‘your style”?
Absolutely, I think everyone has. In fact, just last week I wore a headband and sequined top to a NY Fashion Week event I hosted, and I posted the picture on Facebook with a self-critique. Even stylists make mistakes!
If someone wanted to ask you style questions, where would they find you online?
>They can find me on my website, www.maryalicehaney.com or on my blog mylifemyfashion.com
As a stylist, what’s your favorite trend you love to see on HipSwap?
I just love getting a birdseye view into other people’s closets and homes, be it celebrities, fashion editors, other stylists or just people that want to share one of their former favorites with the world…and maybe grab a little bauble for themselves while they’re at it 😉 That’s HipSwap.
Check out this site! You won’t be sorry!
Stevie Wilson,
LA-Story.com
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