I host a contest each year to make a difference in one young woman’s life. It is my hope to positively advance a tenacious and deserving, fledgling professional in their journey to success through a free SORT, SHOP & STYLE session. I call upon my community to nominate young women who are working and striving towards their goals. The response is always exciting and inspiring. Inevitably a winner must be drawn, and last year’s lucky lady was Stephanie Fox. A master at independence and a remarkably conscionable 23 year old, I was totally impressed at her poise and lionhearted goals. She managed to quickly save $500 for our shopping session, which showed some serious discipline as she was, at the time, saving to buy a house, going to school full time self-funded, and working full time. It was rewarding working with such a high-spirited young person, I ended up learning so much from her! I was eager to learn what she took away from the experience so I recently sent my assistant to interview her!
How would you describe your wardrobe prior to your SORT session with Scarlet?
Struggling and messy. Before she came over it was disastrous. Lots of random pieces but nothing that worked well together. Half was stuff I knew I would never wear but didn’t have the courage to get rid of it.
Where were you at professionally when you won the Style Evolution Scholarship?
When I won the Style Evolution Scholarship I was finishing up my Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources & Leadership/Management at PSU as well as working on a promotion in my current position.
How has your closet evolved since then?
It’s much more organized. It’s even color coded now! And I have my work clothes hanging separate from casual clothes, so I can easily source the appropriate pieces for different looks. I’m not a morning person, so saving time is crucial for me and she really helped maximize on that.
Where are you now in your career since having worked with Scarlet?
Since working with Scarlet I have gotten a raise, received more compliments on my outfits and demeanor than I can count, and have started to consider more prominent positions within my field.
What tips or tricks that Scarlet suggested did you find most valuable?
The fact that colors are inter-mixable! Mixing prints and colors was scary to me. I was always paranoid to add too much color, but I wanted to wear outfits that could lend more personality. She really taught me a lot about fearless experimentation.
How would you say your experience with Scarlet helped you reach your professional goals?
Though I haven’t changed my career to apply my degree quite yet, I now feel confident and capable of doing so. I know that when I walk in to interview for the next position I’m interested in I will feel proud and ready to take on new challenges and expand my work experience. I have always gotten good grades and excelled in whatever I applied myself to, and now I feel sure that I can do the same in the business world.
What is your favorite outfit you and Scarlet styled from that day?
This outfit is the perfect example on how I learned to mix print and color. Before, I was stumped by the hot pink on the sleeves, I thought I could only wear it with all black. The gray and the pattern totally liven it up, this is definitely one of my favorites.
How would you rate your style confidence prior to your sessions with Scarlet? (1-10)
6. I knew I was capable. Professionally, I was confident in my performance. I had gone to school and was very familiar with my industry. I just felt unsure of how I was perceived and really wanted to dial in the right look to further enhance my reputation and professionalism.
How would you rate your style confidence now? (1-10)
9. Assuming I take the time to give my outfit at least a little thought in advance, I know I look great. I wouldn’t give myself a 10 only because there are some mornings I’m rushed and throw things together last minute. But even then I know what I can mix and what fits.
Have you received any compliments since your Style Evolution?
My co-worker Katy had this to say about me, which really meant a lot:
“Stephanie’s style is the perfect combination of professional and fashionably funky. Even on the days she ‘didn’t even try,’ she still manages to look completely put-together and fashionable. The funky flair she incorporates into her business attire reflects her personality perfectly. I’d kill for her fashion sense. -Katy Petri RE/MAX co-worker
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