Exclusive Q&A with Celeb Stylist Sam Saboura
We’re all about getting free style tips here at I Heart Heels, so we squealed with excitement when celeb stylist/fashion expert Sam Saboura (and former Extreme Makeover cast member) filled us in on how best to wear a high heels and (gasp!) how to look slimmer instantly. He’s styled SJP, chicettes, so listen up!
I Heart Heels: What’s your biggest style tip you use on celebrities that anyone on the street can easily practice for an instant makeover?
Sam Saboura: Accessories can reinvent any look and any wardrobe, especially as the seasons change. I’ve used some super-inexpensive items to transform high-end looks on celebrities and everyday women alike. I love J. Crew, Banana Republic, and even Forever 21 for jewelry. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get the look of the moment. Updating your jeans seasonally is also a great way to change things up. Denim can date your look in an instant and it’s such a staple that you can renew your style seasonally with a new pair of jeans—even on a budget.
IHH: What was it like being a personal shopper for Fred Segal – did you shop for anyone we might know?
SS: I had an incredible time working at Fred Segal and really came of age there. I had the opportunity to meet and work with some of the biggest stars in the world and learned a ton about fashion and styling at the same time. I was there when some of the top European labels were launched in the U.S. like Helmut Lang, Martin Margiela and Costume National. It was a playground for fashion, trends and celebrities, of course. I had the chance to meet and work with everyone I ever wanted while working there and it was really exciting. Some of my favorite moments were meeting/working with: Valentino, Karl Lagerfeld, Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, SJP, David Beckham, Liza Minnelli, Ringo Starr, Mick Jagger and Madonna.
IHH: We heart Sex and the City – please tell us what it was like working with SJP!
SS: I worked with SJP (and Matthew) for a couple of years when I was at Fred Segal and on her first Garnier hair commercial, which was my first time styling a commercial. She is warm, intelligent, generous and, of course, very instinctive when it comes to style. And she loves high heels, “the higher the better” I remember her telling me. She was everything you want her to be in person, and all that you fall in love with when watching her on TV or in a movie. Just a wonderful down-to-earth woman—and gorgeous, too!
IHH: What was your favorite part about working on Extreme Makeover?
SS: The show has been over for a few years now, but it still airs all over the world. My favorite thing about that show was that I actually had a part in changing people’s lives. Not many people can say that about their job, so I feel really lucky to have been a part of it. It was a crazy ride and a fun experience. I learned a lot about what makes a good makeover and, at times, what makes someone into a drag queen (laughing).
IHH: Can you tell us a little about your new book you’re working on now?
SS: I’ve always wanted to write a book about how to put an outfit together. I think that so many women know how to buy the pieces they love, but don’t really know what to do with them when they get them home. That’s my concept and I’m fleshing it out now. We’ll see where it goes…
IHH: Which celebrities are you styling now?
SS: I just worked with Giada De Laurentiis from Food Network whom I love and adore. She’s beautiful, funny and so fun to dress. She has the best attitude – and she can cook, too! I absolutely love her.
IHH: Please tell us about your fall collection for STYLED available on HSN. What can we expect?
SS: I’m excited to tell you that we’re re-imagining the STYLED collection for Spring 2011. HSN has asked me to design a collection based around real leather jackets (instead of faux like my prior collections) that will be sold as a “Today’s Special.” There will be a capsule of really chic pieces that compliment the leather jackets and we will re-launch with this new direction in February! I am trying to be patient, but it’s hard to miss fall fashion because it’s my favorite time to shop, style and design. I’m presenting the spring looks this month in New York and can’t wait to show it to fans of the line!
IHH: What’s your favorite way to style a high heel?
SS: Anyone who knows me knows how much I love a shoe. They are the icing for me when it comes to styling and I have a really quick eye for what I like and what I don’t, especially when I’m shopping for one of my clients. I love when you notice the shoe and it’s an unexpected WOW. Of course, they should complement the look but I like them to steal a bit of focus, too, in a good way. It’s so funny; you can always tell when a shoe is wrong, especially on a red carpet.
When it comes to casual looks, I like the heel to do all the talking, especially when it comes to slim jeans and trousers. I like a shot of color or texture, and I love them super high! I love to show some skin around the heel, so dresses are probably my favorite, followed by cropped pants. I am into short skirts and shorts for evening, so it’s fun to style those looks with shoes as well. I am not a huge fan of tights and hosiery because for me sometimes they take away from a good shoe, but I do love the look for cooler months. I guess I have to suck it up for fashion’s sake.
IHH: What’s the easier way to instantly look slimmer?
SS: Adding some height for sure. It’s the best way to slim down instantly and improve your posture. Dark colors, though cliché, do work really well. I like the idea of adding some flash to pull focus up or off your area of concern. Jewelry and embellishment work well for this too—even a strong, fabulous shoe can make it happen! I am always a fan of using structured pieces and fabrics to slim the body and balance curves.
IHH: We’re headed to NY Fashion Week soon, so we must know your “secret” shopping places!
SS: For guys, I love Odin, BBlessing, Steven Allen Annex, and The Liquor Store by J. Crew. For girls, Pas de Deux is great, and I love Aloha Rag. For vintage, try Amarcord.
Ok, chicettes! The secret’s out! – xoxo
[Photo Courtesy Sam Saboura]
August 10, 2010 @ 12:19 am
Great interview! I can't wait
to read the book and get great
styling advice.
August 10, 2010 @ 12:39 am
Hey, Wow great post!
Love Heels??
You should definitely check out my new shoe design blogspot! All my designs are hand-drawn! I am hoping my illustrations will help me get a step into the industry! Take care x
Louboutininthemaking.blogspot.com
August 10, 2010 @ 12:44 am
Thanks, Dee! Can't wait to get the book myself!
Prad – What great designs – love! Keep up the good work! xoxo