Dear Chris Benz,
I am sure that every one in New York wants to be a stylist, designer, and everything else that revolves around fashion, and I know that the competition is steep in NY as for many other places. But I believe in my self enough to leave my hometown of Houston, TX, and move to New York in order to further myself in the fashion industry. My question for you Chris is if I want to be a stylist, designer, or even just have a paid position at a top fashion firm, do you believe that a degree is necessary? Or rather hard work and dedication? And if a degree is necessary my top interest for schooling is FIT, what degree would be best for some one who just wants to style beautiful people and further them selves in the fashion industry? I really must say RIP to my life in Houston TX, and birth a new life in NY, your words of advice will be greatly appreciated!
Love,
FashionsMuse

Read more →

Dear Chris Benz,

Thank-you,
Alissa

Dear Fashion-Minded Floridian -

Where you grow up, your surroundings, and all of your experiences will inform your designs for the rest of your life!

Read more →

Dear Chris,

Recently it was junior prom at my high school. I had some difficulty trying to find a prom dress as there is no definite guide as to what is an appropriate prom dress or what a fabulous prom dress should be. I was wondering if you had any ideas or examples as to what is prom chic and what isn’t.

Dear Prom Queen,

As far as high school dances are concerned, I would err on the side of something classic, with a nice silhouette, and you can load up with costume jewelry, hair, makeup, and a fake eyelash goes a long way for easy glamor. See if you can find images of Kate Moss at her 30th birthday party – its the epitome of effortless party style in a little black dress, heavy false eyelashes, and like a tophat or something.

Read more →

Mr. Benz,

How are you doing? As an aspiring stylist in the fashion industry, my question for you is, how do I go about developing a well rounded portfolio and besides local work on my own, how do I go about finding a stylist experienced enough to intern for? Seeing that you are a fashion designer, I’m pretty sure you have worked with everyone from a make-up artist to a stylist. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated. Hope to hear from you soon.

Dear Aspiring Stylist,

If you haven’t figured it out yet, presentation is everything. And I do mean that – don’t get lost in the minutia of “portfolios” and “books.” I actually can’t remember the last time I reviewed a portfolio. Curate your life and your persona, commit to your direction, and become completely dedicated to that vision. Chances are, as an aspiring stylist, you have very unique opinions about the manner in which things should look. Focus on that and anything that speaks to that direction should get assembled into a portfolio. It’s as interesting to see the process of inspiration as the end result.

Read more →

Hi Chris!

I wanted to know if you think I should take the chance and move back out to NYC to pursue my passion, by meeting and talking to as many people as possible, or if I should wait it out in CA until I have a confirmed job.

Dear Shoe-laced -

Listen, if you want to work in NYC, you ought to find a way to allow opportunity to befall you … Make a plan, get back here, and just go for it!

Read more →