June Ambrose

Clutch sat down with Celebrity Fashion Stylist/Designer, June Ambrose, to ask her ten burning questions that we knew you wanted to know. For those who don’t know who Ms. Ambrose is, she is an iconic fashion stylist/designer that has appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, The View, VH1 and MTV. June also owns the full-service styling firm Mode Squad, Inc., has created high couture dresses and will soon bring her own couture style to a contemporary line to be called Effortless Style Survival Kit by June Ambrose.

Clutch: How did you become a stylist?
I was fortunate enough to have acquired an internship at a record company. As it turns out, it’s a great place to hang out if you are looking for potential clients in music and fashion. One day, a manager came into the office looking for someone to create an image for a new artist. I offered my services and became a full-time stylist!

Clutch: Who was the first celebrity/entertainer you styled?
My first client was an unknown rapper who only had a single deal. Shortly after, I acquired High Five, a boy band on Jive Records.

Clutch: What fashion trend do you wish would go out of style?
Formal shorts with tights underneath!

Clutch: What piece of clothing should every woman own?
A well-fitting, non-ashy black dress. It is a great piece for both day and night.

Clutch: Who are some of you favorite designers and why?
Yves Saint Laurent–I love the structure and drama this collection has. I also love Chloe–it’s very mod. I love the 1960’s, and Diane Von Furstenberg is contemporary but still has an old Hollywood flair.

Clutch: Who is your favorite person to style, and why?
Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z are my favorites. Mary has a great sense of style, and I love how she translates fashion into style. Jay-Z brings an amazing character and presence to everything he wears.

Clutch: What is your favorite style of purse? (i.e. shoulder bag, clutch, hobo, etc.)
For day, I have to have a bag big enough to hold my magazines and client files. Clutches are best for the evening–they make me feel so feminine.

Clutch: What inspires you?
Older women who refuse to give up their inner diva truly inspire me. Their hair, make-up and wardrobe are dynamic and flawless, despite their age.

Clutch: What advice would you give to an aspiring stylist?
This is an extremely competitive business. Becoming a successful stylist is not just about dressing people–you have to have a great business sense and a creative mind that will allow you to market yourself to the masses.

Clutch: What trends or designers do you think are up next?
A few predictions… Hollywood glamour will return! The opulence that Gloria Vanderbilt brought to denim will gain more recognition. Luxury leisure and athletic wear will be a big trend on the horizon.

Go Glam

1.Ice Princess Ring – Kenneth Jay Lane , $136, maxandchloe.com 2. Citrine By The Stones – Thin Brass Bangles, $65, shopintuition.com 3. Brass Chain Earrings, $100, shopintuition.com 4.Gold Frame Clutch, $14.99, target.com 5. Katchen 5 – BCBGirls, $99.95, zappos.com

High Waist Jeans

1. Kate High Waist Flare Jean, $75, asos.com
2. Amari, $59.99, ninewest.com
3. Patent Minaudier, $59, ninewest.com