Britni Weston-Marketing Manager, Holt Renfrew
1) What is something you love about your current position and what is something you loathe?
I love that everyday is different from the last and even though I apply the same process to many parts of my job, the outcome is always different depending on the brand, product and customer. I love the brands I work with and it's exciting and rewarding to turn a simple idea into something spectacular. Something I loathe is that it never seems to end!! The fashion industry is fast paced, always changing and operates 7 days a week so it's difficult to find downtime and separate work from the rest of my life.
2) Where do you get your wonderful sense of style from, who inspires you?
I'd describe my personal style as modern classic. I've often felt that I'm living in the wrong era and get my inspiration from style icons like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Jackie-O. I love anything that is feminine, sophisticated, timeless and iconic - Chanel, Prada, Oscar de la Renta and always amongst my favourites! My wardrobe staples are dresses, coats and blazers, wedges or riding boots (depending on the season), and oversized sunglasses and handbags. I love shopping and finding that "perfect item", but I try to invest in timeless classics rather than trends or this season's must-haves. And as anyone at Holt can attest - I'm a sucker for anything with a puff sleeve and a bow!!
3) What is your favorite weekend ritual, do you do anything outside of work during the week?
My job occupies most of life from Mon-Fri so weekends are filled with friends, family and "me" time. I enjoy time spent with friends, watching movies, shopping, Sunday family dinners and I think a big glass of red wine with my girlfriends is the perfect finish to the week! To relax I like painting, hot yoga, listening to music or just reading the Sunday paper with a great cup of coffee - and I'd never turn down a day at the spa!
4) Why did you choose the career you did; who would you love to meet one day (has that person indirectly influenced your career choices)?
My university guidance counselor told me to "pick something you love and find a way to get paid to do it". When asked this question, my passion for fashion and fascination with the luxury goods industry rose to the top of the list and I never looked back. I've been very fortunate during my career at Harrods, LVMH and Holt Renfrew to work on some incredible events/projects and meet some truly amazing people. My passion for the industry continues to grow and today, I can truly say that I love what I do. There are so many designers, authors and mentors that have influenced my career but someone that stands out... (as cliche as it may be) is Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel. Unfortunately, I'll never get a chance to meet her but I've always been fascinated by Coco's personal story, her rise to the top of the fashion industry and with that, her ability to single-handedly change the image and perception of fashion. Women across the globe owe her a lot for fusing strength, independence and style into what fashion is today.
5) What is one piece of advice you would give to friends/readers who are struggling in their careers?
Always put yourself first and do what makes you happy. I think it's easy in business today to get caught up in what you "should" be doing, instead of what you "want" to do. Passion is something that can't be taught and when you truly love what you do, you'll always be more successful in the long run.
