Jessica Paster: Superstar Hollywood Stylist

Published on Friday, September 10 2010

Written by Super User

Well, aside from being A-list celebrities, they have all have had the pleasure of working with celebrity stylist superstar, Jessica Paster. While she may not admit it herself, Jessica Paster is the new black. Having worked with the crème de la crème of celebrities on every notable award show as well as their day-to-day life, Jessica's work stands out. Whether you're a fashionista, aspiring stylist, FIDM student, or just simply a dedicated Young Hollywood reader, it's time to take notes as we have an exclusive interview with the queen of styling...

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YH: How long have you been a stylist?
JP: 14 years.

YH: Had you not become a stylist, what occupation would you have pursued?
JP: An actress, or a stripper. [laughs]

YH: How did you discover your talent for dressing people?
JP: I studied for 3 years as an actress, from 16 1/2 to 20 years old. I was auditioning quite a bit, but I realized I had a handicap; I had terrible stage-fright! I didn't know what to do. I was a cocktail waitress at the time, and I thought about opening a bar, but there were 2 problems with that: I was underage, and I had no money. So I did what anyone did at that point -- I prayed to God to please help me find what to do. One week later, a miracle happened. A friend of a friend asked me if I wanted to assist a stylist. I had no idea what that meant, but I went in anyway. As soon as I walked into that man's door -- and all the chaos, craziness, and beauty all wrapped in one -- I knew this was my calling.

YH: When was it that you first felt established as a stylist?
JP: Oh god, the first time I did my taxes and I had to pay Uncle Sam a ton of money. [laughs] Professionally, I've had stellar moments: Kim Basinger and Minnie Driver at the 1998 Oscars, and of course, my work with Cate Blanchett each and every time for the 11 years that I worked with her. Let's not forget the hummingbird dress, and the burgundy and yellow Valentino she won her Oscar in.

YH: What big events have you helped clients get pretty for and which is your favorite?

JP: That's like asking a mom who her favorite twin is! I've done every major event -- videos, ad campaigns -- and I love my work in all of them. For some, there are things I would have liked to do something different, or changed things now that I look at the outcome, but most I'm very very proud of. I do have to say, I have dressed the most Oscar winners out of all the stylists. How lucky am I? As for my favorite event, I take pride in everything I do, but my favorite will be my own wedding!

YH: Aside from big events, what else do you style for?
JP: You name it, I style it. Ad campaigns, videos, photo shoots, editorials, etc.

YH: Are there any designers in particular that you think consistently create wonderful pieces?
JP: Again, like saying what is my favorite twin. John Galliano does always have amazing pieces and beautiful designs. I love Michael Kors for his simplicity, and I have to mention Mr. Armani, Valentino, too many wonderful designers out there to name them all. I think every designer is a beautiful inspiration, and there is always beauty in their collections.

YH: When shopping, which article of clothing do you have the most fun searching for?
JP: Of course, ball gowns!

YH: What are your top 3 styling moments when you've looked at someone you've dressed and just been in awe with your talent?

JP: Humbly, of course; Cate Blanchett in the Hummingbird dress. Emily Blunt at the 2010 Golden Globes in the Dolce, it inspired a lot of actresses trying to recreate the look (imitation is the best form of flattery!). Dakota Fanning at the Eclipse Premiere in 2009 in the black leather floral cutout Valentino. And Kim Basinger at the Oscars in 1999 in Escada.

YH: When styling a client for an event, how many outfits do you usually come prepared with?
JP: We are talking about clothing racks right? [laughs] We usually have at least 3 full racks of clothes.

YH: What are so pieces that you think are vital for this fall/winter?

JP: I'm loving the idea of leather, camel tones, and menswear for women. Very '70s retro.

YH: Are there any colors that will be popular for fall/winter?
JP: CAMEL! CAMEL! CAMEL! But no camel toes. [laughs]

YH: Are there any current trends that make you shake your head with disgust?

JP: Girls wearing inappropriate tiny onesies that don't fit them, YUCK!

YH: What is your favorite item in your wardrobe?
JP: Of course my leggings! [laughs] But I have to say my Dries Van Noten multi-colored mink short coat is beautiful!

YH: People are constantly say that --insert whatever here-- is the new black; with your experience in the field do you believe this will ever be true?

JP: Absolutely not! Black will always be the new black, talk about classic! You can never go wrong with black!

YH: Any events coming up that will be keeping you on your toes?

JP: Every event keeps me on my toes. I always try to challenge myself as much as I can. That's why, after 14 years, I still love what I do!

YH: Are your services available to everyone or only celebrity clients?

JP: I am discerning, but it really depends on the project.

YH: How much do your styling services cost?

JP: [laughs] Again, depending on the project. But put it this way, I do make an amazing living for myself.

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Well, there you have it, folks! In case you haven't already realized it, Jessica Paster is one spectacular stylist with a wicked sense of humor. She's a hot commodity, but you never know -- maybe someday you will be able to experience her magic too!

- Tyler Biddle-Barrows, YH Staff