STORY BY MOLLY LAMOUREUX
Kaylen Jelinske is a Drake graduate who now works as a freelance stylist. this week she talked to the Times-Delphic about her favorite brands, networking in the fashion world and staying stylish.
Molly Lamoureux: So, you’re a Drake graduate?
Kaylen Jelinske: Yep! I went to undergraduate at Drake University double majoring in graphic design and magazine journalism.
After Drake, I attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandise in Los Angeles where I received a degree in visual communications with an emphasis in styling.
ML: What do you do for a living now?
KJ: I am a freelance stylist for Nordstrom Direct, which also gives me the freedom to style photo shoots and fashion shows on the side.
ML: What’s your favorite part about your job?
KJ: I love that every day is different. I get to work with some of the most creative people and it’s amazing to be able to collaborate and be a part of the fashion industry.
ML: How would you describe your style?
KJ: I would describe my style as moody and unpredictable. Every morning when I wake up, what I put on just depends on what kind of vibe I’m feeling for that day. One day I’ll go super grunge, the next day I’ll go bohemian-chic.
ML: Where do you draw all of this eclectic style inspiration?
KJ: Social media. I follow designers, bloggers, fashion magazines and even celebrities. It’s important to keep up with trends in this industry, so any type of fashion outlet is key.
ML: What are some of your favorite brands?
KJ: Rag and Bone, Theory and All Saints are some of my favorite brands. I’ve been getting into online shopping a lot more recently. Revolve Clothing is amazing, too. And of course I shop at Nordstrom!
ML: Do you have any fashion “guilty pleasures?”
KJ: I don’t know if this is necessarily a guilty pleasure, but my go-to look is all black.
I love the idea of having a blank canvas you can dress up with accessories and a pop of color like a clutch or lipstick.
ML: Ah, strong lipstick – a woman after my own heart. So you definitely know what it’s like to be a college fashion girl on a budget. Do you have any advice for our Drake readers who are on a budget?
KJ: Always bargain shop! Make it a goal to never purchase something at full price.
Nordstrom Rack and TJ Maxx are great stores for that. You may have to dig, but it’s worth it.
ML: Do you have any advice for college students who are aspiring to have a job that’s similar to yours?
KJ: Network as much as possible and put yourself out there. Word of mouth is very powerful in this industry.
