Thursday, June 10, 2010

OH THE GLAMOUR!

...so as Seema and I walked out of Kylie Fever leaving the Tous store and into a black cab "We're going to Berkley Square driver , for the Glamour awards" I said. However, this was not how my night was supposed to end. A week earlier, Seema recieved her invitation to the Glamour awards however her plus one was someone from the Television agency that represent her. To be invited to this is quite a big deal and I felt priveliged and proud that I was going to dress her for it (along with the Kylie event) however that afternoon I recieved an email from Seema that changed the course of everything. "Deni , call me we have a problem" read the email. "Hun I cant i'm swamped with work as the Kylie event starts in 2 hours, whats wrong" - my stomach started to churn with thoughts of wardrobe malfunctions. The reply came through shortly after and it read -

See the problem is , my plus one for the Glamour Awards has bailed and I need someone to be my date. Do you think you could squeeze that in? Would that be ok? Xxx


I could hear the sarcasm in her voice as I imagined her saying this. The Glamour Awards Party was the hottest ticket in town & everyone in the fashion industry wanted an invite and here I was , just a smalltown boy and by chance I would now not only be styling my client for the red carpet event but attending it with her! I could hardly believe my eyes and I quickly replied.

OMG OMG OMG! I can't breathe! haha very funny Of course I can go! Talk soon xxx

...and so it is with this turn of fate that I was sat in a cab on my way to one of the hottest events of the year! As we stepped out at Berkley Square , the same square i've walked through many a time, the same square I've ate lunch in on various occasions & the same square I sat in crying into my blackberry as I told one of my best friends back home that my relationship was over. The square tonight was transformed into a white marquee location of pure GLAMOUR!!!
Screaming fans crowded the entrance waiting to spot their favorite celebs, pictures in hand waiting to be autographed (if the celebs were so kind) - I spotted a Jonas Brother & Billlie Piper on arrival & so it was that invite in hands guests were ready to get on in & dance the night away
As we walk into the tenth and turn left onto the red carpet it makes my heart smile to see Seema represent my version of Glamour, and seeing the end result as she stands infront of the Glamour 'photo-call' makes all the running around, chasing samples while juggling a PR career worth every second of it. Before I know it photo's are taken and its time to head straight in!
The clear roof of the marquee allows just enough twinkle of the stars to compliment the flashing lights of neon pinks and electric blue and you can feel the buzz in the air amongst the fashion savvy crowd. Everywhere I turn I see girls doing their version of Glamour! Cocktail dresses, maxi dresses , sexy jump suits and heels that get higher and higher with each girl passing byCheryl Cole's 'Fight for this Love' pumps through the air as she has just been awarded the prestigous Glamour Woman of the Year award. Deservedly so , she's an incredibly glamorous stylish woman and after the year she's had she's managed to keep composed and chic every step of the way. As Seema and I head to the bathroom for a quick toilet stop before heading to the bar, I am transported into the Blue room - surrounded by moisturiser, blatantly a marketing scheme and some very clever product placing, I am loving my blue light surroundings!We walk back to the bar and straight to the cocktail list. 'The Glamourpuss' immediatley catches my eye and decide this will be my drink of choice for the evening. Belvedere vodka mixed with cranberries, raspberries, guava and lemonade on ice with a wedge of lemon - fabulously good & sure to be lethal! As we weave through the crowd we head into the main room where I am confronted with the word GLAMOUR - ah what's that saying 'there's no place like home' I am in my element and feel like i've walked into the world that I truly belong to & its an amazing feeling

and then it seems the celebrity sightings begin. First up the wicked british rap sensation Tinee Tempah (who i'm due to see at the Wireless Music Festival in a few weeks) looked dapper in a geek-chic way I personally love! I just had to approach him 'Man you're threads are dope who are you wearing tonight?' , I ask casually. 'Ah thanks bruv, its Dolce baby, all Dolce' , 'Sik man!'
it was slightly surreal to be chatting fashion and snapping pics with a guy who's music I dance to most weekends and am seeing live soon. "Have a good night man" - we both say and Seema and I are back off into the throngs of fashionistas to get our groove on. As I walk through a couple of drunk girls I bump into a very tall figure and look up to see Florence - frontwoman of the amazing Florence & the Machine , wearing a stunning black sequinned Jasmine De Milo dress, "Sorry Honey" she says , "No problems lovely. Can I just say you're amazing & I love your music" , "Aww you're too nice" she replies. "And you look incredible , lovin this dress", "Thanks babe" she replies and before I know it we're discussing the new Sex and the City film & dancing to Prince - the moment is so surreal , 'You've got the love...' is one of my favorite songs and has sentimental value for me , Sex & the City related hehe and when Florence's version was released I've been hooked on her voice ever since. Here she was calling me babe & dancing with me! DIE!10minutes after my Florence experience I spot Amanda Holden, the ever sophisticated Britain's Got Talent judge and the picture of Glamour in a white strapless dress! "Amanda I just have to tell you that i'm one of the many gays who finds you so utterly fabulous, I love you" I say slightly intimidated...she has a kind of sophisticated presence that seems almost angelic. She hugs me tightly and says "Oh my favorite kind of fan, I love my gays" and cocktails in hand we discussn favorite designers, moisturisers and tastes in men hehe we could've yapped away all night but there was more partying to be done and I told her to meet me on the dance floor for a boogie!While standing at the crowded bar waiting to be served I notice for a moment, that I am standing next to the cute-as-a-button Pixie Lott. I wrap my arm around her white silk Dolce & Gabbana blouse and say 'You shouldnt be waiting in queue' and we giggle and introduce ourselves to each other (like she needs an introduction). "I am such a big fan of yours honey you're fabulous" and with that we wait for our drinks together chatting about how cute the girls shoes infront of us are, "Jimmy Choo" she tells us and then Pixie and I chat about upcoming projects , how cute Jason Lewis (aka Smith from SATC) is and plans for the summer! Bless her!Seema and I , drinks in hand finally rest our legs for a second and met some really cool TV producers and as they complimented Seema's outfit "All thanks to my stylist" I cant help but smile. One thing that means a lot to me is that both of our careers are blossoming and we're experiencing it both together. I was so honoured to be able to share this night with her!
We stop and pose with Dizee Rascal as he walks by. With an entourage to rival J.Lo we manage to get in there and have a bit of a chat with him even, but the queue of girls grew by the second
As the night turns into the early hours of the morning the DJ really hits into overdrive and keeps pumping out non stop tune after tune! At one point I spot supermodels Tolula Adeyemi (rumoured to be the new face of Chanel) and Olivia Inge (Top british supermodel and features in Burberry campaigns) as they attended our Kylie event they immediatley recognise me and come over for hugs kisses and the beginning of a major dancing session. Olivia and I bonded when she walked into the Kylie event with her tag hanging out of her dress I quickly ran up and tucked it in before the paps started snapping "Thanks honey you saved me" she smiled - and there we were reunited at the Glamour awards. Looking fierce in a beige chiffon dress and hot pink Choo's (They're fabulous but dickheads to walk in - her words not mine) Olivia led the group of us to the dance floor as Lady Ga Ga blared through the room. Tolula , looking fabulous in sequins and high waisted shorts grabbed me and as Poker Face cut into Beyonce's 'Sweet Dreams' the three of us were grinding like it was nobody's business and Seema was close by to snap the action!

Note how Glamorously-intoxicated we look hehe trashy while fabulous I call it, but seriously what a crazy moment. I couldnt believe the night I was having and as the music died down, the glamorous crowd makes its way out feeling a lot more drunk & a bit less Glam then we all did on arrival the night comes to an end at the uber-exclusive Mayfair Hotel with the TV exec's and a group of fashions It girls for the "after after party" and a bottle of Vintage Dom later its well and

truly time for this boy to once again hang up his party shoes and get into bed! As I slipped my satin eye mask over my eyes - the sun was due to rise any minute now - I went to bed with a smile on my face. The past 24 hours was one of the most incredible, amazing and surreal expriences of my life and hopefully it was the beginning of things to come. Its funny but it once again makes me feel like things really do happen for a reason, everything seems to fall into place and my fast life in the fashion lane just keeps on getting more fabulous! Cheers to that!

xoxo Deni

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

ON A NIGHT LIKE THIS...The Kylie Event!

Two weeks ago when I accepted my position at Tamara Kretzer PR I was briefed on an upcoming VIP event hosted by Kylie Minogue the face of our Spanish Jewellery client TOUS. What I wasnt allowed to publicly say at the time , was when Tamara called me to offer the job she also added "...and Denis you're dream will come true and you'll get to meet Kylie". I couldn't believe my ears. For those of you who know me, you will know that Kylie is one of my biggest Idols-Heroes-Style Icons EVER! I've seen her Live twice but have dreamed of coming face to face with her many a time - as sad as that may sound - and knowing that I was going to meet her (and only being allowed to tell my mum) was anticipation & excitement beyond compare. With 2 weeks to plan probably the biggest event our Agency has held to date was not an easy task however with a team of 5 we managed to pull it off amazingly! As last minute celebrity guests were added to our list hours before the event was due to begin Kylie fever was in the air and buzzing through our office like a thick smog! On the same night as the GLAMOUR STYLE AWARDS this was going to be quite a big night proffesionally and personally for me for a few reasons. As PR Boy working the Kylie event was going to be one of the most important nights of my new-career in PR and a chance to prove myself to my new team. As Stylist Deni , my client Seema was invited to both the Kylie Event & Glamour Awards so this was my chance to showcase my skills as a stylist to the 'who's who' of the London Fashion/Celebrity World. Nervous much? Yep. Rewind 10 days 5 days pre-event and you'll find me in Seema's bedroom going through options for the evenings outfit. When she walked out in a gold and black sequinned Lipsy, a dress from their VIP range , I knew this was the HERO dress! I decided to style it with black peep toe Kurt Geiger heels and a leather and gold studded House of Kaviar Guache to funk the look up and mix the sexy glamour of the sequins with the funky edge of the studs. Fast Forward back to yesterday and my morning began in Fortnum & Masons. Fortnum and Mason is recognised internationally for its high quality food and as an Iconic British Landmark. Its basically one of the swankiest food stores in the world and a hold a Royal Warrant. This is where the Queen does her shopping (though not personally I'm sure). I was sent to Fortnum's to buy quintessentially English food for Madame Tous & her daughter (flying in especially from Spain for the night's event). I've never been in before and have always thought it was a high end department store. Needless to say when I walked in it took my breath away. The glass doors opened to reveal royal red carpet , Chandeliers hanging from the ceilings and the cutest silver shopping baskets that looked more expensive than any shopping basket i've ever seen. I've never seen food so amazing merchandised and displayed. A tower of fine chocolate truffles looked poetic behind glass counters and the staff were dressed in suits like the staff of a 5 Star Hotel. As classical music played in the background (at just the right volume) I observed the shoppers around me. These were the chicest shoppers of London i've seen. Carrying Vuittons, Birkins and the like , dressed in smart chino's and Burberry knitwear these were just every day women & men popping in to pick up their groceries for the day - every day VERY WEALTHY women & men however! I selected quintessentially english fine tea, biscuits and a jar of sweets coming to the total of 30pounds (yes $60 AUD) and had them gift wrapped (no charge) by the white glove , tuxedo wearing gentleman behind the counter. This was luxury at its best. This alone was an experience in itself, and I walked out with the longing to be one of this uber-chic shoppers one day , popping into Fortnum's - Birkin in hand , cashmere sweater tied around my neck - to treat myself to a selection of truffles, macaroons, fine chocolate and champagne. I highly recommend visiting and now feel like a trip to London wouldn't be complete without it. Back to reality and back to the office when before I knew it I was in a cab & on my way to the event! A quick costume change into my party outfit I opted for Elegant Glamour in black skinny's a white tuxedo shirt and bow tie (left hanging loose James Bond esque) with my grey blazer thrown on top. I selected an oversized silver TOUS cuff to wear for the evening (coming in at a cool 500 pounds) and took my place list in hand, as the face of the agency, on the door!
I've been at the door for many a fashion show and the last event we did for Grazia so I wasnt too nervous , though this was the biggest event i've had to do (with a 300 strong guest list) being at the door meant I would be the first to see everyone that comes in , most importantly Kylie! It was 6.30 on a balmy summer's night as guests started to arrive. Madame Tous & her Daughter Rosa arrived with their posse from Spain HQ (later in the night Rosa Tous told me she loved the cookies I selected and that her and Madame Tous had ate them while getting ready). My face lit up when my star client Seema Pathan walked my way - she looked beyond stunning! The dress, shoes & accessories looked INSANITY and as the paparazzi snapped her picture I felt so proud!
Soon Matt Horne , the hilarious comedian and star of the Catherine Tate show & Gavin and Stacey made his way towards me and I ushered him inside as he was the guest DJ for the night.
Shortly after Billionaire-Heiresses the Ecclestone sisters stepped out of their private Hummer and made there way towards me. Dressed in a Herve Leger dress and Christian Louboutin heels Brunette Petra's wrists were stacked in Cartier LOVE bracelets (starting at around 5,000pounds each) while her Blonde sister Tamara sparkled in a sequinned short play suit carrying a Chanel 2.55 and also wearing Louboutins! These girls are London's Hilton Sisters & were loving every second of the spotlight as they posed for paparazzi like the socialites they are
I greeted the super tanned , dressed in black, man with a "Hiya Sir , what was your name" as I prepared to tick him off the list he replied with a "You shouldn't have to ask for my name young man you should recognise me , I'm Julien McDonald" and with that we both laughed and I felt slightly embarrased as I completely didnt recognise the designer I was really looking forward to meet. Granted he had just completley changed his hairstyle and wasnt recognised by a few people. "Julien i'm so sorry its your new haircut I didnt even recognise you" , I giggled whilst batting my eye lashes and swiftly got out of it as I ushered him inside. Quite a funny moment!The TOUS flagship store on Regent St was buzzing as guests drank their cocktails as Matt Horne queued 80s favorites from the decks. The combination of Socialites, Designers, Actors and Actresses, TV & Radio Presenters and Models set the scene for what was shaping up to be a very cool party! Everyone however was eagerly anticipating Kylie's arrival - myself included.
As Kylie's manager stepped outside we were told the Divine Miss M was around the corner and 5 minutes later a black car pulled up and my heart began to beat so fast I thought it was going to jump out of my blazer and onto the floor! As security opened the door I spot a shoe , the colour of coral and then finally the gorgeous-incredibly petite-frame of Kylie Minogue. She is glowing. Literally it seems as though rays of light are beaming from her smile. Her hair is toussled and up in that effortless way she often wears it. Her full length bohemian styled Bodyamr coral dress drapes down her body and her gold Yves Saint Laurent heels peak through the split. Gold three-tiered TOUS earrings from the Petal collection adorn her ears and look perfect against her honey-blonde locks. As she walks towards me I cant wipe the smile off my face and she poses for Paparazzi like the proffessional she is and then finally is right in front of me. I extend my hand and with a smile am the first to greet her. "Hiya Kylie, Welcome to TOUS, I'm Deni you look amazing" , as the words come out of my mouth I cant believe this is happening. "Aww , you're a sweety" Kylie Minogue replies. Yes Kylie Minogue , The Kylie , Australia's Showgirl called me Little Deni from Geelong - a sweety - somebody pinch me! This can not be happening. Perfectly queued by Matt Horne, Kylie's new single 'All The Lovers' from her forthcoming album 'Aphrodite' blares from the speakers (contrary to mixed reviews I love this song , its such a feel good track) and as the lyrics play and Kylie walks in it is a moment I WILL NEVER FORGET! and before I can start to get emotional I compose myself and take in every second! She poses with Madame Tous & her daughter Rosa & has the whole room in awe of her beauty & presence.
As she heads upstairs to her VIP lounge , for Kylie's Team , Special Guests and the TOUS Family another familiar face walks my way. "Its Molly Meldrum" I say, "G'day Molly I'm Denis" - "Gday Mate, you must be an aussie" , "Sure am mate" I reply. "Where from?" Molly asks, "Melbourne, well actually Geelong" , "Geelong , aaah mate are you a Geelong supporter?" , "Of Course I am" I reply and with that he faux-chokes my neck laughing "Naughty Boy you're the opposition" and we both laugh. "Has Kyles arrived" , "Yeah she's upstairs mate go on In" , "Cheers Denis"! A very funny and unexpected suprise appearance from Molly! Reminded me of home hehe after about an hour of interviews and mingling with the guests it was time for KM to depart and as she made her way down through the crowd I noticed my best friends Charlotte & Paul (Charlotte works for a fashion brand who was invited to the event but since the designers couldnt make it she got to take their invite, Paul being a model was her suave +1) stop and ask Kylie for a photo. I am so jealous and so proud all at the same time - as PR Deni I have to remain completley proffessional but since I wasnt allowed to ask for a photo I'm glad they got one! and as the paparazzi get their snaps of Kylie walking out she turns and smiles at me and as her flowing coral gown is swept in to the car the door closes and the car makes its way down Regent St. As Kylie fever winds down I am given the all clear to leave the door and take some time to quickly have a few drinks with the guests. I quickly-and-reluctantly return the amazing silver cuff "I dont want to take it off ever its amazing" I tell the TOUS girls , but its best I do before I get any cocktails into me & lose it! I head over to our team and we all raise our glasses of much deserved drink to congratulate each other on what was an extremley succesfull event we are a small team but work so well together! Finally I take this time to say hello to Charlotte & Paulcheck out their pics of Kylie. "She said I was cute" - says Paul! Bless! Seema is beyond happy and informs me that all night everyone has been complementing her dress "All thanks to you Deni" and again I am reminded why I love doing what I do so much! Drink in hand I briefly spoke to Percy Parker designer of hot london fashion label PPQ , I told him how much I love the label and how I was dying to go to his show last fashion week but was working a show for Goodley at the same time "Well i'll make sure you're invited to our show this Fashion week" and with that we exchange emails! Last fashion week every celebrity, socialite and stylist wanted to be at the PPQ show and now I had a guaranteed invite - Amazing! I get a quick drink with Seema before we have to leave to head to Glamour Awards Party (but more on that later...)
...as I prepare to leave the Kylie event I still cant believe this is all happening. It sounds silly to say but meeting Kylie is a lifelong dream come true and not only that, I successfully worked the biggest event our agency's ever done and my proffesionality (is that even a word) was praised by Tamara & the TOUS team and I feel overwhelmed with emotions , it was really an event to remember in so many ways! However the night didn't end there, keep reading for the full low down on all the Glitz, Glamour and Gossip at the GLAMOUR event - coming soon...
xoxo Deni!














1 WEEK. 3 EVENTS - FIRST UP ASOS MAGAZINE LAUNCH!

Life in the PR world is full of events , in Fashion PR especially! So last Wednesday evening after another crazy busy day at the office it was off to mix a little business with pleasure at the ASOS Magazine Launch Party. ASOS.com Is an online store - the success of stores like Asos, Net-a-porter.com & My-wardrobe.com proves one thing - online shopping is on the rise , and though I'm not always a huge fan of it - I am one of those , dare I say "old fashioned" people that loves nothing more than going in a store feeling the fabric in my hands , seeing the sparkle shine up close and lets not forgetting trying on a beautiful garment and prefer to shop the 'old fashioned' way however it is quite convenient knowing that I - now in the 21st century - also have the option of doing it in my Emporio Armani jocks whilst in bed! ASOS.com however has now launched a magazine and is expanding itself into the fashion world at large and smartly so! When I recieved the invitation one thing stood out to me *Guest DJ Leigh Lezark - with that I was already selecting my outfit for the occasion! Leigh Lezark has a special place in my heart! Based in New York , Leigh is the hottest DJ in the fashion world , apart from the fact that she is now a fashion icon-celebrity in her own right (the girl has amazing style) she's hand selected by Marc Jacobs & Karl Lagerfeld for almost every party they throw and has also modelled for Karl Lagerfeld. While in Paris during fashion week she caught my eye walking out of the Chanel show in an amazing Chanel printed knit jumpsuit - I remember thinking - WOW now that girl is cool!I never imagined our paths would cross, then a month ago I had the pleasure of styling her for Diesel. She was one of the most down to earth celebs i've so far come across and as we sat on the floor editing my choices for her we giggled and talked about our love for St.Tropez and Chanel! It was such a fun experience yet once again I never thought i'd see her again - then the ASOS invite came my way and it looked like our paths would cross again! I walked from the office to the venue, the exclusive Club24 in Soho (and also where I had my 22nd bday) and from sunlight into the club. ASOS covers featuring Leigh Lezark, Kristen Stewart & Lea Michele on entrance
My workmate Alex and I were handed Bellini's on arrival and quickly took our place in a VIP booth. A blessing and a curse with fashion events is all the free alcohol , especially when you've had that busy a day, that you're not sure whether you stopped for lunch or not - so 3 bellini's-on-an-empty-stomach later I was slightly tipsy. The crowd was a mixture of the on trend ASOS Fashion team , stylish bloggers and all the fashion girls & boys from rhe hottest PR Agency's & magazines across London. In Dior & Studs my look was glunge (glam-grunge) the Deni way!
While chilling in VIP I met Pauline , a stunning American-Asian girl living in London we both completed each others outfits and bonded while talking cheating-boyfriends and Sex & the City over a Bellini or 3! What I love about London is you just never know when you'll make a new friend! After another drink & playing with sunglasses with Pauline's friend, Leigh finally arrived!As she began playing her set we immediatley hit that dance floor. Flown in from New York especially for this event , I couldnt believe how lucky I was to be dancing to a Leigh Lezark set! She mixed old school hip hop with Lady GaGa, MGMT & Prince in the coolest way possible! As she looked to the crowd I caught her eye and we exchanged a smile 'I wonder if she remembers me' I thought , and with that I decided that I might not get this chance again and walked right through security and into the DJ booth. "Leigh" I said and before I could continue my sentence "Denis how are you?" she replied and took her headphones down to give me a hug. *Oh my god she remembers my name* I thought *Ok keep cool Deni* soon followed. "I'm good honey how are you?" , "Literally crazy, just flew in for the event and flying out tomorrow morning straight after". There she was wearing an amazing black Dolce & Gabbana corset dress and before I knew it we were chatting about Gaga's new video , NY fashion & then I just hung out with her as she did her thing in the booth. An hour later it was hugs and kisses and an exchange of emails!

Back on the dancefloor I continued to dance it up till Leigh's set was over and as I walked out into the busy streets of a Wednesday night in London , just the perfect amount of tipsy, I couldnt help but smile as I hailed a cab (no night bus for me tonight) feeling slightly Carrie Bradshaw esque and sat my stud print InsideOut skinny jeans down, I looked out at the city of blinding lights then down at my blackberry grinning at Leigh Lezark's personal email address beaming from the screen - how this is all really happening is beyond me but im sure glad it is! xoxo Deni

Sunday, June 6, 2010

P.R BOY DENI - SO IT BEGINS...

I woke up on Wednesday the 27th of May for my first day as PR Boy! What to wear on my first day was a crucial decision - what to wear on any day of my life is a game of dress ups as you all know , but for days like today I really wanted to pull out the stops. The look I wanted to go for was proffesional but with a cool laidback appraoch. I didnt want to seem too up tight, yet not too casual either and of course it needed to have just the right amount of fashion edge to still be ME! And so the above developed. My red and black check GSTAR shirt is a very special piece to me. I spent a little bit too much money on it a few years back and bought it for my first visit to the Geelong Cup. Its been a favorite ever since. I chose to style it with a black bow tie - love myself a bow tie for that cute geek-chic-fashion look and i pull out the bow tie for days I want to feel smarter hehe as silly as that sounds it just makes me feel book-worm esque. Paired with my trusty H&M black skinny's (they may be a 10pound pair of high street jeans but they are literally my favorite black skinny's every & dont fade in the wash) and of course added the finishing touches - piles of Cat Hamill beads my Police watch & skull earring. I got my hair cut the day before also (have kept all the length but just had the sides shaved off lovin this look) so I walked out the door with extra pep in my step! The day before I was also gifted with a very much lusted after item that i now cant live without. I've always said when I land my dream job I will need a beautiful diary to remain organised and on schedule in the chicest way possible. Smythson of Bond Street are world knowned for their leather diary's , organizers , notebooks etc They originated on Bond Street in London and are the insiders favorites for logo free , sophisticated high end leather goods (I remember reading that Elle McPherson never leaves her house without hers). So I went into Smythson the Monday before to see how much I was up for. For a beautiful plain black leather (which funnily enough has the same grain treatment as my Prada wallets) Mid year 'Soho Diary' with my name embossed was gonna set me back a steep 170pounds. Unfortunatley I couldnt afford that so I walked out resorting myself to the fact that I'd have to go to Rymans (a stationery store) and get a cheap one. I briefly mentioned the diary to one of my best friends Michelle that night over drinks and the next day over lunch she put the iconic blue Smythson shopper bag on the table and said 'open it' - knowing what was inside I began to cry behind my oversized Dior shades and opened it tearing up at what was inside!
Exactly down to the detail the diary I described to her the night before and she even got my name embossed on the front. Michelle is one of the most amazing people I know and it is because of her that I even am still where I am today. When I was going through the hardest period of my life so far, Michelle took me in and provided me with a sense of inner strength I never knew I had. It is for people like her that I am doing this , I want to make Michelle & my family proud of me and achieve all I can for them. So Smythson in hand 'Denis Todorovic' made his way into the Tamara Kretzer offices and into the world of Fashion PR - officially! The first day was manic to say the least as the following night we had a huge event with Grazia Magazine & our spanish jewellery client TOUS. A luxury jewellery house , TOUS was collaborating with Grazia to launch the new 'Magic Campaign' featuring the face of the brand Kylie Minogue. With less than 24hours till the event was due to begin the office was in overdrive, the phones didnt stop and before I knew it the day was over and that night I was off to visit Seema (my gorgeous TV presenter client who I now officially style) as she was attending tomorrow's Grazia event & I needed to style her up. Supplies in hand after trying on 3 dresses we chose the one that literally made everyones in the room jaw drop (this being me , her best friend, boyfriend and mother). She looked amazing and was totally going to shut it down at the event. I got home that night at 1am after a crazy day of juggling PR BOY & STYLIST Deni and woke up hours later ready for another long one which would include a day at the office , the Grazia event & VIP after party!
Outfit selection for day 2 was based around the fact that I needed a look that would take me straight from the office to the event to the party and always a firm believer in 'its better to be overdressed' thought a tie and waistcoat was perfect for the occasion! The phones were going crazy at the office and over 200 new guests had rsvp'd for their attendance for the event.

Not only were we focusing on the event of the night , we were planning a huge event only 10 days away and getting on with the day to day workings of the agency. Phoning stylists, editors pitching our product to be shot in their upcoming stories, it was all starting to make sense to me and the excitement of every confirmed feature that came through was a great rush & a success for the whole team. Before we all knew it we had 3 hours till start time so it was off to the flagship store , where the event was to take place , to start to set up , prepare goody bags and have one final brief. "You've started right in the deep end Denis but I think its exciting" , said Tamara in the spare 5 minutes we had between tasks and I couldnt agree with her more! 10minutes before the estimated arrival of guests I was assigned to be on the door with the list , making sure only those with an invitation got in and no one else. Clipboard in hand there I stood!As the fashion pack started to make their way into the store Seema walked my way and took my breath away - wearing a figure hugging asymetrical printed dress by Lipsy - cinched in at the waist , the color , print and fabric of each panel hit her body in all the right places. Black perforated leather Rika clutch in hand and black peep toe heels on foot she was AH.MA.ZING!!!

The event was a huge success and PR duties aside everyone was talking about Seema all night. She was 'the girl' - at one point I spotted her talking to the Fashion Editor of Grazia (wearing a gorgeous black jersey dress and Missoni trench coat) and she really commanded attention. "Denis I feel so amazing and everyone keeps telling me how great I look & its all thanks to you" - when I heard those words It was such a proud moment. To make someone feel that good about themself is whats the most rewarding part of styling and I look forward to the many more styling adventures instore for Seema & I to work on (but more on that later...) event over it was time to make our way to the exclusive after party at the uber exclusive hot spot Mo*Vida (a favorite of many celebs and socialites). We walked down the dark stairway where a flash of fairy lights lead the way to VIP. The room was buzzing full of a cool fashion crowd and friends and family of guests and my team. Alcohol flowing and camera's flashing combined with the music that had us all dancing till 3 in the morning, was the perfect way to reward our hard work!
As I passed out in my bed at 4 that morning I woke up the next morning suprisingly fresh for my last day of the short Week 1 at the new job! and as 8pm Friday night came along (yes late nights at the office are all part of the PR game) I had a moment where I thought 'i've managed to successfully work my first official PR event , successfuly style my first client for the first time & make a really good impression on my boss & work colleages' - "Denis, I am so glad you're part of our team , welcome" and with those words Tamara and I wished each other a good weekend and my life in Fashion PR begun...and there's a whole lot more exciting things about to happen. All that & more updates coming soon xoxo Deni

Thursday, June 3, 2010

AND SO MY INTERN CHAPTER CLOSES...

Almost 4 months ago I began my first day as an intern at a fashion PR Firm and was thrown straight into the deep end which resulted in being one of the best experiences I've ever had and was a rollercoaster ride of emotions along the way. My life over the past 2 months (or more...) has been just that , a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and i havent updated my blog as often so I apologise to all you readers out there, but that's all about to change as I have much exciting news to report - however before I close this chapter let me fill you in on some of the highlights from my most recent intern experiences.

VOGUE the word itself conjures an emotional relation to fashion - it is fashion mecca. On one Thursday morning I walked into the offices of Goodley to be told we were going to Vogue today. We were going to conduct a sample sale of some old samples we had in our closet and within an hour I walked through the revolving doors and into the elevator on my way to Fashion Heaven. In the elevator stood a leggy blonde wearing a Marc Jacobs cropped jacket , Balmain jeans and sky high Miu Miu wedges! She emulated all that Vogue meant to me - High fashion! I could've cried. We set up the sale in one of the Vogue offices (covered wall to wall in issues of past). I took every chance I got to walk through the corridors , lined with rails of all the hottest new designer threads from every label you could imagine. As I walked out of the offices It was truly a dream come true - I visited THE HOUSE OF VOGUE & I have a feeling I'll be back and perhaps for a more important meeting next time!

A week later , Goodley was holding their Press days. A press day basically involves showing stylists, editors, journalists and bloggers all our new collections to give them an idea of the product we have to offer them for the season ahead. Normally interns duties during press days involve handing out water and canapes however the Goodley team trusted me to take appointments with clients , showing them the collections and talking through the designers we represent. Meaning I would have the opportunity to show my face and passion to some of the industry's leaders. I met some amazing people and after every appointment they asked me for my card, when I told them I was just 'the intern' they looked at me in shock. "You need to be working in Fashion PR young man" said the Style Editor for Stylist magazine. Little did I know what was just around the corner...(but more on that later).

Now back on VOGUE Encounters a week after our Press days, Alexandra Shulman the Editor in Chief of UK Vogue , who unfortunatley couldnt attend our press days - had a scheduled meeting to come in and see the collection of Meadham Kirchoff and meet the designers themselves to discuss the collection. These guys are London's answer to Viktor & Rolf and a very quirky fashion duo. The News that A.Schu was arriving at Goodley sent everyone into a frenzy and just before her arrival Kara asked me "...to please sit in reception for Alex's Arrival". She certainly didnt have to tell me that twice , before I knew it I was sat behind a lap top in reception feeling very 'amanda-off-ugly-betty' and 15minutes late for Miss.Vogue came knocking on the door. "Hiya Alexandra, Welcome to Goodley" , "I'm here for the Meadham & Kirchoff Boys" she replied quickly. "Follow Me" - as I walked her to the showroom I clocked her outfit. Black Silk carrot leg-harem style trousers , a striped oversized singlet top and a Navy Blue silk Blazer. Her hair (naturally wavy) was up in a dishevelled 'couldnt give a fuck' style and she was carrying a new season Celine handbag and wearing Miu Miu heels. There is a reason Anna Wintour & Carine Roitfeld (editors of US & France Vogue) are the style icons they are...Alexandra Shulman style icon is not. She was slightly aloof but she did like the collection and after a brief 20minutes she was out the door and back to her throne at the Fashion Kingdom that is Vogue! Never in my life did I think I would be coming this close to Vogue Editors and now that I have A.Schu and Carine Roitfeld ticked off my list , the only editor I have left to meet is Anna Wintour hehe

2 Weeks ago my 4 month intern anniversary looming , I emailed the directors at Goodley advising them of my interest in applying for any upcoming positions as a Junior Press Assistant. Fashion PR has become a true love of mine - being amongst the hustle and bustle and behind the scenes of getting fashion into the magazines and to the right stylists and on the right people has really become something I want to be a part of and feel am really good at. Unfortunatley there was no openings at Goodley however one of the directors best friends was moving to a new Fashion PR Agency and they were looking for a Junior Press Assistant. After a sterling recommendation from Goodley and my CV in the hands of Tamara Kretzer herself (the owner of the agency) I received a phone call that was about to change my life. Tamara wanted to interview me asap. So 2 mondays ago I fastened the buttons on my new Dior shirt (30 pounds from a charity store) pulled my tie down, threw my blazer on and walked into Tamara's offices.
I've always been a firm believer in 'The feeling you get in your stomach' - I always say you've gotta trust that feeling. The moment I met Tamara , a striking , tall german woman with long blonde wavy hair I knew this would be the start of something amazing! The next afternoon I recieved a phonecall that changed my life "Denis , even though you're not as experienced as perhaps some of the other applicants, you have a passion and ambition that reminds me of myself at your age and there is something about you that makes me want to give you that chance". When she offered me the job that is changing my life , I enthusiastically accepted and as I hung up the phone tears of joy streamed down my face. Last Wednesday I began my role officially as a Junior Press Assistant for Tamara Kretzer PR. My last intern day was bitter sweet. It called for a special outfit however and as I sported a somewhat preppy summer 'Chuck Bass' inspired outfit - I walked into Goodley that day remembering a somewhat vulnerable , newcomer to the PR and Fashion world and walked out that day embracing the more confident than ever young man, with a handful of amazing experiences under my belt. As another exciting chapter is about to begin in my life i just know exciting things are ahead and I am ready , crisp Dior shirt on I am ready to shine and take over the world of Fashion PR!
Updates on my first week are coming soon xoxo Deni