As the Oscars draw near, Kate Young, the stylist known for dressing Scarlett Johansson, Dakota Johnson, Margot Robbie, among others, discusses taking risks, intimacy, and her frustration with method dressing.
On Oscar Sunday, Young often finds herself sipping black coffee while perched in a movie star’s bedroom, preparing for the grand event early in the day. The celebrity stylist, renowned for styling iconic red-carpet looks, describes the meticulous process of final dress fittings before the hair and makeup teams take over. Revealing her passion for the Oscars, Young likens her approach to a final exam.
Young's journey into the world of fashion began with academic pursuits. After studying English and Art History at Oxford University, she honed her skills in argumentative writing and public speaking. These skills proved invaluable when convincing movie studios of her daring fashion choices for their stars.
Her fashion risks, like the memorable canary-yellow Vera Wang gown for Michelle Williams in 2006, contributed to her rise as a leading figure in Hollywood's fashion scene. She emphasizes the importance of aligning high fashion with practical wearability, ensuring that celebrities can move comfortably and confidently in their designer attire.
Transitioning from assisting renowned figures in the fashion industry to becoming a sought-after stylist, Young navigated a changing landscape where social media and online platforms revolutionized the accessibility of celebrity fashion. She recognized the power of platforms like Instagram to showcase her work and influence fashion trends directly.
Young's influence extends beyond red carpets, as seen in how her choices for clients like Sophie Turner can spark trends and impact the fashion industry. Not only does she curate looks from established luxury brands, but she also champions emerging designers and sustainable fashion, showcasing a diverse range of styles that resonate with her clients and followers.
With a client roster that boasts top stars like Julianne Moore, Scarlett Johansson, and Dakota Johnson, Young continues to shape the narrative of fashion in Hollywood. Emphasizing the importance of kindness and forming genuine connections with clients, she acknowledges the intimate nature of her work, where trust and empathy play a significant role in styling processes.
As Young wraps up for another busy season, her commitment to promoting new talent and sustainable fashion remains unwavering. She shares that her work involves extensive research to fuse creativity with conscious choices, aiming to provide a platform for diverse voices in the fashion industry.
Reflecting on the emotional depth of her profession, Young highlights the unforeseen intimacy that comes with styling actresses during vulnerable moments before major events like the Oscars. Through these experiences, she recognizes the unique bonds that form in the fast-paced world of Hollywood's fashion realm.