Source: @hannahayes
Today, we’re shining the dressCODE spotlight on Hanna Hayes and introducing you to one of the top stylists on our platform! We’re just moments away from a soft-launch, so get on our mailing list to be notified when you’re able to book an in-person or virtual appointment with Hanna. She’ll help you purge your cluttered closet, determine your signature look, and build a capsule wardrobe that is uniquely you.
So let’s dive into a Q & A with Hanna Hayes!
Tell us a little more about your experience as a stylist…
I started assisting with wardrobe at the age of 18, where my first-ever gig was working on a Japanese car commercial starring Bruce Willis. His stylist took me under her wing, teaching me the dos and don’ts of set life, and the etiquette of working with wardrobe houses.
After college, I started working as a freelance wardrobe PA, styling various commercials and eventually, on the TV show Scandal. From there, I linked up with an incredible stylist who showed me the ropes of editorial and red carpet styling through work with Nylon Magazine & Teen Vogue.
After a 5-year stint of owning my own clothing line and opening a home decor shop, I pivoted back to wardrobe styling and was connected with a stylist seeking assistance with styling U2 for their upcoming Rosebowl show! That experience led me into men’s styling, and eventually, into being a men’s stylist at Trunk Club.
From there, I started designing custom suits for men at a company called Knot Standard, but after realizing that the sales game really wasn’t for me, I quit the 9-5 grind and took the leap back into freelance. Since then, I have been the head stylist on various creative projects, and have selected the wardrobe for a stage play, two short films, and another film coming up soon!
I also own a vintage clothing shop, www.atouchofvintage.com, where I source and curate a collection of unique one-of-a-kind pieces. I connected with dressCODE a few years back, and am so excited to start working with a company that fuses my love of vintage clothes, personal client relationships, and wardrobe styling into one!
What is your signature look?
This question is always hard for me because I tend to dress differently depending on the day! But, if I had to choose *one* go-to look that makes me feel confident...it would have to be a long, flowy, feminine vintage dress paired with either my Gucci loafers, or cream Chuck Taylor high tops, gold hoops, & a straw basket handbag!
Source: @hannahayes
How do you determine a client's personal style?
Determining a client’s personal style is always a bit of a process and truly does take time. But if I have limited time with a client, I base it off of their personality + the first five items that they like to pull out of their closet. The first things we reach for every day are most likely our favorite pieces to build outfits with, and usually say the most about our personal style!
Where do you typically source rare pieces?
I typically wear vintage clothing, so I like to source rare pieces off of eBay. If I’m hitting the pavement though, flea markets are full of great finds & my favorite vintage shop, Squaresville, is always a trusted source for rare pieces.
Which current trend are you excited to incorporate this fall?
The current trend I am excited to bring to life in my closet this fall is the elegant lounge set (thanks COVID!), paired with a chic overcoat, and my trusty loafers. I think cream and other neutrals are going to be leading the way this fall...hint, hint.
What are the best items to buy vintage or secondhand?
The best times to buy vintage or second hand would be designer bags and coats.
Source: @atouchofvintagegoods
Where are your favorite budget-friendly vintage shops in LA?
My favorite budget-friendly vintage shops in LA are Squaresville, The Bearded Beagle, Vintage Vortex, The Sleeper, Moonstar Collective, and Hidden Treasures.
How do you deal with clients who are reluctant to change and struggle to let go of the old to make space for the new?
People tend to create specific attachments to items in their closet based off of memories that they have wearing them. I try to help my clients realize that they don’t need to hang on to that dress they had the best night of their life in, on some vacation back in 2010. My rule is: if you haven’t worn it in six months, and there aren’t at least three other outfits you can create around it, it’s gotta go. I like to give clients a heads up before working with me, and let them know that I am here to help improve their personal style...and that usually requires some closet-purging, and a willingness to get out of their comfort zone a bit!
What are the top 5 wardrobe staples every woman should own?
A great white tee
The classic pair of blue jeans
The perfect pair of black jeans
A little black dress
Crisp white tennis shoes
Ok, I know you said 5 but humor me here...I also deeply believe in every woman’s closet having: black loafers, sandals, a black turtleneck, a long coat, a white-collar blouse, a pair of gold hoops, great boots, basic heels, and a chic black bag.
That’s a classic capsule wardrobe in a nutshell!
Which piece of clothing will never go out of style?
No matter the era, the white tee & and blue jeans combo will never go out of style. Long live Jane Birkin!
Source: @hannahayes
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