Over the past few years, stylist Monica Rose has singlehandedly pioneered the athleisure movement, dressing her A-list clientle in a cool-girl mix of throwback and cutting-edge workout wear. And, while at it, continued to churn out some of the most coveted (and copied) going-out looks in the game. There's no question—Hollywood is her oyster.
Because one should be so lucky as to have Rose as their personal stylist, we're picking her brain for all of her outfit-making tips and tricks. From athleisure essentials to holiday dressing, here's how you can take your look to the next level—whether you have 3,000,000 or 30 Instagram followers to your name.
Marie Claire: You've had an integral role in the rise of athleisure—how do you believe it's evolved from the birth of the term a few years ago until now?
Monica Rose: I think it's now the cool It girl style. With the growing popularity of pairing fashionable sneakers with everything from dresses to leggings, it's more acceptable and you don't have to look or feel frumpy. I love that you can be comfortable and wear sneakers, but still look chic, put together, and not like you are running to the gym.
MC: What are the 5 "It" athleisure items at the moment?
- 1. adidas Originals Super Girl, $69.99; six02.com.
- 2. Ivy Park High Rise Ankle Leggings, $65; six02.com.
- 3. Puma Leadcat Fenty Fur Slides, $79.99; six02.com.
- 4. Nike Air Max Thea in Metallic, $119.99; six02.com.
- 5. adidas Originals Super Girl Pants, $59.99; six02.com
MC: Where do you seek inspiration for athleisure?
MR: It comes from my clients being comfortable. They are jet setters and running around town being photographed every other minute, so I want them to be as comfortable as possible, but still look cool, chic, and polished. I get inspired by sneakers, outerwear, hoodies, and track pants. That is why I am so obsessed with SIX:02 . It's a one-stop shop for the latest looks from Nike, adidas, Puma, and new athleisure brands that keep popping up.
MC: What are you tips for making an athleisure look your own?
MR: A fresh pair of sneakers and silhouettes that works for your body type. Don't mix labels, try to stick with one and make sure your overall look is balanced when obvious branding is involved. For example, you should wear adidas track pants with an adidas sports bra, and etc...
MC: Holiday season is upon us and you know better than anyone how to dream up a statement-making look. What are your tips for holiday dressing?
MR: When people think of holiday dressing they automatically think sparkle or sequins, but if you're not into sparkle or sequins, like myself, try a fun black tuxedo dress with some sexy strappy shoes and a statement necklace. Or, if you're not a dress person, you can wear a chic velvet suit with some killer heels and a statement choker.
MC: As far as tailoring goes, what alternations take an outfit and fit the farthest?
MR: I don't think I can do fittings without a tailor. I am a perfectionist and I want to make sure the clothing fits to perfection on my clients. You would be surprised—by taking something in at the waist or tailoring the sides of a skirt or dress, it can make you look slimmer. It's all about knowing your body and knowing what works for your body type.
MC: Accessorizing is what really makes a head-to-toe look. If a woman is on a budget, what accessories will elevate a look the most?
MR: It's all about the small details. I am a big hat person, so I always suggest a hat to complete a look. Or, if it's a client wearing a low top or plunge neckline, I suggest a scarf or layered gold necklaces to complete the look.
MC: As a stylist, your focused first and foremost on fashion, but how do you think beauty comes into play?
MR: I think beauty plays a big role in fashion. When I am styling my clients, I suggest how they should wear their hair and makeup to make the look complete. After my fittings, I team up with glam, hair and makeup, to discuss a vibe that makes the look come together.
MC: What beauty trend do you love playing off of the most?
MR: I love a good red lip moment. And, a berry lip for the holidays!
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.