Stefanie - Diller Yourself
What motivated you to become a style consultant?
I have been in fashion for 25 years, studied design, was responsible for millions of textile purchases and worked as a VIP representative for the gala. There I made celebrities look good with great outfits - on stage, for an event or for a photo shoot. Many came to me afterwards and asked if I would do the same for them privately. I felt that I not only have a good knack for creating the perfect outfits for everyone. I love making people look better because it makes them feel more comfortable, more confident and grow from within.
What problems or insecurities do you notice most often among your customers?
The problems are less specific than being overwhelmed by the many options in the fashion jungle. What suits me, what colors, cuts, patterns, shoes, accessories and how do I combine them all? Spontaneous bad purchases lead to empty closets and you end up with a hodgepodge of clothes that don't go together very well. Or the clothes are simply difficult to wear if you don't have model measurements.
You often advise business clients. From your point of view, in which direction is business fashion developing?
Due to Corona, business fashion has become more casual, and many people have gotten used to comfortable clothing when working from home. Many people want to continue wearing this comfort, which means that the more casual business casual look will be the fashion of the future in business. The clothing must therefore be comfortable to wear, light, elastic and sustainable to combine. I think it's positive that there is a lot more color overall and that this is also well received. This makes our business world more lively and, above all, more feminine.
How do you deal with the issue of sustainability in fashion?
I think "cost by wear" makes the most sense. It's better to have a perfect piece of clothing that can be combined in many different ways and worn for a long time than to constantly buy new fair fashion that then sits unworn in the closet. I work with my customers to create a sensible wardrobe with items of clothing that can be combined in a sporty, elegant or casual way. This way they can enjoy it for a long time and it's the most sustainable approach there is.
How do you think female empowerment can be expressed in everyday fashion?
Expressing one's own personality through fashion is very individual and I am always delighted by how diversely women do this. Whether they wear a bright red pantsuit, a charming dress or a casual jeans and blouse combination depends on the individual type. I like to encourage women to use color and develop a common thread in their looks so that they are recognizable.
For me, female empowerment also means visibility and self-empowerment, so that we have the same opportunities and are respected worldwide. I don't turn women into fashion dolls, I empower them.
Photo: Uwe Gärtner
