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Q & A Interview with Sam Saboura

Firstly, what are your thoughts on the “skinny models” controversy going on at the moment?
I’m not a fan of the skinny model phenomenon, and I know that I am not alone.  It amazes me that with all the pressure from the public, and attention from the media, that little is being done to change the status quo in the fashion industry.  I understand why tall, thin models are desirable to a designer; they are easy to dress and act as a coat hanger for the clothing, showing it off in the perfect light.  But we can’t ignore the fact that this trend is fostering an unhealthy image for the impressionable young girls who look to the fashion industry for inspiration.  I keep waiting for a shift and a fuller curvy model to show up here or there, but I just don’t see it coming.
(See my blog page on skinny models.)

How did you get into the fashion and style arena?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a passion for art, great design, and style in general.  My mom has excellent taste and was involved in the fashion industry, so growing up I was always surrounded by great clothes and creative people.  I used to sketch women’s clothing as a child, makeover my friends and family members, and shop for sport.  I channeled my passion into a career in retail.  Throughout my teens and twenties, I had the opportunity to play dress up with thousands of different people, from all walks of life.  I learned so much from working hands-on and experimenting with my clients.

What aspect/s of your job do you enjoy the most?
I love the fact that I get to bounce back and forth between dressing real people and dressing celebrities.  It keeps me challenged and keeps me on my toes.  It’s easy to dress a perfect body but not always realistic.

What’s the biggest and most obvious mistake women make dressing themselves these days?
They dress for what they want to look like in their mind and ignore what their body wants them to wear.  They fight their bodies and try to dress like their favorite celebrity or what they see in the magazines.  This is where many fashion don’ts come into play.  Women ignore reality for trend.  Many times, they dress for the body they had in the past or the body they long for in the future, instead of dressing for who they are today.

What style tip do you have for someone with a low or next-to-nothing budget, i.e. she cannot possibly think of going to a tailor?
I love accessories, they are the key to great personal style and they don’t have to cost a lot of money.  We are seeing this trend in fashion today.  The accessory is very important, almost more than the clothing.  Everyone can enjoy them no matter how they are shaped or what their budget is.  You can add trend into your existing wardrobe seasonally with some well placed baubles without investing in a whole new wardrobe.  When you don’t have money for a tailor, buy less of better quality items, instead of filling your closet with inexpensive trend pieces that take up space and need refining.  Quality over quantity always makes for wining style.

What’s the most useful and versatile item one should have in one’s closet?
The perfect pair of dark jeans is a must.  They will instantly update a tired wardrobe and are as versatile as a basic black pant, skirt or dress.

How do you feel about the “matched up” jewelry look (matching necklace, earrings, ring, and bracelet) worn all at once?
I don’t.  I think it’s too safe and easy.  This is nice for a mature woman who wants to be simple and elegant.  Younger girls can and should take risks and play with their jewelry mixing and matching wherever they can.  I do, however, like when a woman wears gold with gold and silver with silver.  I am not a huge fan of mixing metals.

How can one individualize a store-bought, mass-produced outfit?
A few ways:  1. Have the outfit tailored to fit like a glove, which takes it up a notch and makes it your own.  2. Use accessories: they make everything personal and original.  This is how boring and average become fabulous.  3. Choose the proper foundation garments.  I always say: “You can wear a five dollar top with a $50 bra and make it look like a million.”  The right undergarments set the tone for your entire outfit.

Is there ever a time when you wear shoes that are lighter than your overall outfit?  i.e. white shoes?
I like white shoes every now and again.  They are avant-garde and cool on the right person.  For everyday style, I think darker shoes work better and are less tricky.  Usually, lighter colored shoes are best in a sandal or a flat—sometimes a boot or pump for drama.  But this is a “look”, and it takes someone with a lot of confidence in his or her style to pull it off properly.  If you’ve got that confidence and love to experiment, lighter colors look great with the 80s throwback styles of today.

What’s been your proudest moment during your career?
When I was published for the first time.  I never thought in a million years I would write a book.  And I think the best is yet to come, so get back to me in a year or so and ask me again!

Who, in your opinion, is the most naturally elegant and stylish celebrity?
Cate Blanchett, without a doubt.  She is always exquisite and interesting.

Sam Saboura
November 2006

As the style host on the TV series Extreme Makeover, Sam has restyled people with stunning results.  Visit Sam's website at www.samsaboura.com.
Photographs used with permission.

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