Catwalks & red carpet events: just another day at the office

Stefanie Jones’ day job affords her the rare privilege of taking both a front seat AND a behind-the-scenes view of some of the most exclusive fashion week catwalks and red carpet events.

This style guru, television and radio presenter (and fashion addict) has interviewed some of the world’s most lauded fashion designers, style authorities, and music industry personalities in her roles at Hoxton Radio and Fashion One Television. As a model and fashionista in her own right, Stef blends seamlessly into the world of style and couture, giving the rest of us a bird’s eye view of what it’s like to immerse yourself in the industry. She spoke to Khoollect.

Tell us about a day in the life of Stef?

Every day is so different depending on what I’m working on at the time. If it’s the lead up to London Fashion Week (like now), I’m in and out of meetings with designers, hair and makeup brands and so on, preparing to cover next season’s trends for Fashion One Television. Other days I’m on photo shoots, at press days discovering the latest beauty products, or working on my radio show for Hoxton Radio.

What do you love most about your job?

I love the variety of people that I get to meet and work with. I’m so lucky that I get to have so many ‘pinch myself’ moments when I’m interviewing celebrities such as Alice Cooper, Serena Williams and David Hasslehoff.

What’s your biggest achievement to date?  

My biggest achievement has to be creating concepts which then get made into series that get broadcast globally. It’s a bit crazy thinking people on the other side of the world get to watch things I’ve made!

Worst fashion trends ever?

Shell suits and Ugg boots. Especially together!  Never EVER a good look.

What trends are in store for 2016?

Bright pops of colour and contrasting prints will be huge. Don’t be afraid to mix sherbet tones such as lemon, peach and violet with shocking pink and turquoise for a feminine yet bold spring/summer look.

Best Kept Secrets

I khoollect a few …  

Shoes. I have quite a big collection. It started off with heels but I now have a much wider variety, including numerous patent flats and different coloured high-tops.

What’s your favourite item in your khoollection?

My favourite pair of shoes has to be a pair of limited edition, green python heels which are encrusted in Swarovski crystals. They are so unique that they ALWAYS get a reaction and are surprisingly comfortable.

A life lesson that you’d tell your younger self? 

Don’t worry so much about what other people think and what will happen next. Working in the media can be very highly pressured and you can forget to enjoy the journey and focus too much on the end result. Take time to stop, reflect on what you’ve achieved and give yourself a pat on the back.

Who’s your #khoollectcrush?

Victoria Beckham without a shadow of a doubt. I admire how she has had two incredible careers in both music and now fashion whilst being a mother – she literally is wonder woman! There was a time when everyone doubted her and was incredibly cynical about her launching her own label, but she followed her dreams and proved them all wrong. Victoria’s determination is truly inspiring.

Urban Favourites

Where do you call home and what do you love most about it?

My home is in Stratford, East London with my boyfriend John and cockapoo Buddy. I bought the house just over a year ago and always wanted a dog – I moved in and less than a month later, I got Buddy. It’s great to have the freedom to be decorate and style my rooms however I want.

Your favourite place for coffee?

I’m the biggest tea drinker, so I love it when I find a place that has different varieties I can try. The Charlotte Street Hotel near Goodge Street has a beautiful lounge area and they have the most delicious rosebud tea. They also give you free shortbread biscuits, yum!

Best spot for dinner?

I’m a big steak fan and can highly recommend Meat People in Angel. They have the most mouth watering menu and cook steaks to perfection.

Where to pickup the best fashion finds?  

If you want to get your hands on some designer goodies at up to 50% off, check out the website Style Barista for the latest updates on sample sales in London.

How do you spend a lazy Sunday?

I love taking Buddy out for long walks around Wanstead Flats to wind down. Afterwards we stop for coffee and breakfast at Coffee 7 in Forest Gate before heading up to Leytonstone to the Red Lion for Sunday lunch. They make THE best Yorkshire puddings and gravy. Both venues are dog friendly, which means he can hang out with me all day.

If not in London, where would you be?

If I’m not in London, I tend to be in Yorkshire with my friends and family. I would love to relocate to America (I see myself living in New York in the future), however I have the small problem of a green card to get around. Fingers crossed…