One of the coolest things about being a Dryel Ambassador was the opportunity to submit interview questions to Dan Lawson, the costume designer for the popular CBS TV series "The Good Wife!" Not only did he share some fabulous tips on how to stay chic and trendy for work, he also had excellent advice on how to take care of your clothes - for instance, by using Dryel like they do on set! {This post is sponsored by Dryel as part of my participation in their ambassador program}
On “The Good Wife” I create looks for my women that are elegant, powerful and feminine. It’s important to me that the women, as well as the men, look believable as lawyers with an extra little something. They need to look neat and clean and well put together.
- Tell us about your trend-setting workday designs.
- How can we select the best office attire for our own wardrobes?
You also need to build a strong closet of staples that support your look. These staples will be the workhorses in your closet: the perfect skirt that goes with everything; that blouse that is the perfect compliment to your suit; a good pair of pumps that are comfortable and have a heel that give you a little extra stature and good posture; a well maintained bag that carries your important papers and personal items without looking stuffed or like a backpack.
Remember, these good pieces will probably cost you more in the initial purchase because you want them to last. They need to be cared for properly and stored properly, i.e., don’t put a knit on a hanger. Things like that.
You need to set aside part of your clothing purchase budget for alterations. I’ve said it a million times. The most expensive garment will just look so-so or worse if it doesn’t fit and an inexpensive garment will look a million times more expensive if it fits you well. Find a good tailor and make him or her your best friend. Once they get to know your body, alterations will be a snap and you’ll look great.
I also would like to say that it is important to not go head to toe trendy with your looks. Certainly, current trendy pieces are great and can become useful pieces in your closet, but you should avoid making a full outfit out of them because it will end up just looking thrown together and, oddly enough, not relevant.
- How do you keep the clothes you work with on set looking their best?
- Are there any alternatives when it comes to garments that are dry-clean only?
- How do you keep the various fabrics you use from fading, shrinking or stretching?
- If you could only pack 5 items in your fashion survival kit, what would they be?
Male: a well fitting suit; a white dress shirt with a nice crisp collar; a good leather belt; a classic dress shoe that is comfortable; and, like the ladies, a nicely maintained bag - not a backpack.
I don't personally work in an office environment, but I really appreciate a lot of these tips - I immediately went to my closet and pulled all my knits from the hangers {I store them on shelves in my closet now}. It was also interesting to think about the fact that the actors on the show are often wearing the same outfits for several days, so Dan's tips on maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of the clothes is really valuable. Most of all, I appreciate that a famous Hollywood costume designer uses something as accessible as Dryel to take care of all those fine garments! What did you take away from this informative interview? My inquiring mind wants to know! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Until next time...
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