MEET THE STYLIST: JULIE MATOS
Julie Matos has become one of the most in demand celebrity stylists in the fashion industry. Her skillful ability to interpret today’s top trends in conjunction with her clients’ varied styles always keeps her on top of her game. Her A-list celebrity list includes Demi Moore, Glenn Close, Julianne Moore, Rose Byrne, Debra Messing, Sofia Vergara, Chelsea Handler, Mena Suvari, Kristin Wiig, Kristen Bell, Serena Williams, Tommy Hilfiger, Leighton Meester, Ellen Barkin and country music superstars Carrie Underwood and Lady Antebellum.
Born and raised in Boston, Julie launched her career producing and styling fashion shows for May Department Stores. She collaborated with major fashion publications on trend direction as well as launching new collections for May Company. She quickly moved to styling their national advertising campaigns and became the youngest Creative Merchandise Manager in the company’s history. With Julie’s move to New York City, she quickly established herself as a freelance fashion editor and advertising campaign stylist. Her show styling experience took her around the world to the runways of New York, Milan and Paris.
Julie is based in both New York and Los Angeles. She is currently the fashion editor for Pashion Magazine and a regular contributor to Niche Media Publications.
Simply Stylist: What is your favorite wardrobe item? Julie: My Sapphire blue YSL satin cropped jacket and matching pant from NY Socialite Nan Kempner's personal collection.
SS: What's your most memorable 'panic moment'? Julie: Samples stuck in customs, sizes not fitting or dress malfunctions...In fashion there is never a dull moment and you need to be a problem solver or as I like to call myself the "MacGyver".
SS: How did you recover from it gracefully?' Julie: You never let them see you sweat!
SS: What is your favorite era for fashion? Paul Poiret era 1910-1920's 20th century fashion. This era was opulent, chic and when fashion came to life
SS: What was your big break? Julie: I was 25 years old and in Paris for the first time. I couldn't speak the language and I was assigned to my very first fashion editorial. I was off in a taxi and on my way to Hotel de Crillon Paris - it was cover shoot with Alek Wek. I was shooting Haute Couture and learned what it truly was to be a Fashion Editor/Stylist all in one day. It was a dream come true. Messengers just dropping off clothing & priceless jewelry galore - Dior, Chanel, Givenchy, Giorgio Armani. Working with one of a kind pieces in your hand was the most magical experience and I will never forget it!
SS: Whose closet would you most like to raid? Julie: Grace Kelly, Daphne Guinness, Diane Vreeland, Elizabeth Taylor - too many icons to list!
SS: Who are your favorite designers? Julie: Lanvin, Balenciaga, Chanel, Stella McCartney, Rochas, Tom Ford, Balmain.
You can follow Julie on Twitter @JulieMatosStyle