After months of online chatter, I finally had the chance to catch up with my virtual friend, Shannon Wollack when I was out in L.A. She is an absolute breath of fresh air. I invite you to come along with me as we take A Peek Into Her World.
After almost 10 years in the fashion industry, Shannon decided to launch her own company called Life. Style. Through her company she provides styling to an elite clientele. Elite indeed- some her customers include Chelsea Handler, Natasha Bedingfield and Holly Robinson Peete. Clients loved Shannon’s work so much that her personal styling has now grown into interior, gift and event styling as well. Her latest accomplishment: Shannon has become part of the highly anticipated High Gloss team. I am so inspired by Shannon’s sense of style and use of colors and I hope you all are too.
1.) Decscribe a typical day in the life of Shannon Wollack.
That’s a tough one. Everyday is different—-every minute is different! I usually spend my days running around. Long gone are the days of sitting at a desk, which can be both exciting and exhausting at the same time depending on the day or time of year. Days might consist of a styling job, a fitting, pulling from a store, meeting with clients, working on a interior design job, sourcing for fabrics, furniture, or even planning an event! Sometimes I wish I had a bit more down time, but most of the time I appreciate staying busy and having a job where I can do what I love.
2.) How would you describe your style?
I would say my style is classic with a twist. I am very big on investing in timeless pieces that won’t go out of style, but also mixing in some funky or trendy elements. I am also really into accessories. Shoes, hand bags and lots of jewelry are high on my list of necessities.
3.) What made you decide to leave your successful career in the fashion industry and start your own company?
I loved working for Ralph Lauren, but after being in the corporate world for about 10 years I was really ready for a change. I had been traveling a lot for work and realized if I didn’t shift my energy to something new and different, that needed change most likely wouldn’t happen. My original plan for the company was geared more towards styling. But many of my clients requested other services such as decor, events and gifting, so it naturally grew into all of the above!
4.) There is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes of styling. Can you tell us about it?
Yes! First of all, it’s not as glamorous as it sounds, haha. I love it, but it really consists of fast paced decisions and a lot of running around. Most styling jobs call at the last minute and they need something right away. We make a lot of calls to borrow clothes, run out to get clothes, then do fittings and of course make endless returns. Also, if there is a budget we have to make sure we are working within the budget,. Rule of thumb–you can never have too many options. I have learned the hard way!
5.) What’s been your most rewarding job yet?
All of my clients and the people I have met have given me a rewarding feeling. It has been amazing to with so many talented people and also witness people’s careers grow. I will admit that the occasional discounts on are a big perk too!
6.) What’s the best part of your job? What’s the most frustrating part of your job?
Best part is being creative. We are always looking for what is new and exciting. So it’s fun to be on the hunt and find new designers, or discover anything that might interest a client.
The most frustrating thing is how every job seems to be last minute and we need to work fast and don’t have much room for mistakes. There aren’t enough hours in the day, and sometime the client doesn’t understand that. Between limited time and a client loosing borrowed items, I would say that’s the most frustrating.
7.) Favorite color. Why?
I hate to say it—but black. I LOVE pops of color, but black is always my base. I go through certain color trends, but again, black is my old faithful. And all colors look good with black!
8.) What are you loving for Fall/Winter?
Boots, boots, boots. Riding boots, booties, knee high boots, rain boots—almost anything goes! I am also loving jackets—-it’s not too cold in LA, so I am currently wearing light weight trench and military inspired coats. I am also on a chartreuse kick, even for winter–I have seen it on dresses and handbags. Chartreuse is a serious pop of color and fun for winter!
9.) I am a huge Chelsea Handler fan, and Brad is my favorite comedian of Chelsea Lately. I am sure that your house is constantly full of laughter. How did you two meet?
We met about 9 years ago when I was looking for an apartment and moved in with his friend I found on craigslist. We were friends at first, but you know the drill. It has been fun to see his career grow. When I met him 9 years ago, he would beg me and my friends to come see him do stand-up at the bowling alley, because for each person he brought he would get an extra minute. I would say things have changed a little!
10.) Who are your style icons?
The Who What Wear girls, Kate Hudson for her having fun with fashion, Kelly Wearstler for taking risks, Gwyneth Paltrow for being timeless and designer Tia Zoldan for being all around cool!
Shannon, this is wonderful! Good for you!!!!
Hope to see you again soon.
Susan Mall
Of course I loved this.
Love the interview! It’s inspiring to watch someone just go out there, bust her a$$ and make things happen.
Great interview!
I loved this post so much! Shannon is as smart and sweet as she is stylish. She is one talented and super driven person! Working with her on High Gloss has been such a blessing. 🙂
Fabulous interview..bravo!