Exclusive Q&A with Celeb Stylist Cher Coulter ~ I Heart Heels

She's one of Hollywood's hottest celeb stylists with clients like Kate Bosworth, Emily Mortimer, Orlando Bloom and Eric Bana. Even though you may not know it, you see her work on one red carpet after another (she dressed Michelle Williams in a Chanel Haute Couture lace dress for her red carpet return after the death of Heath Ledger). Her style is avant-garde chic with a definite glamourous flair. So of course I was thrilled when I got the chance to ask London-born Cher Coulter a few of my burning questions.

IHH: What first got you into fashion—and how did you become interested in styling?

Cher: When I was about 12, I had a "fashion wheel." I also enjoyed dressing everyone up, including my brothers. I started dressing models at fashion shows when I was 17, and doing work experience within all areas of fashion at 16. I was super keen.

IHH: Is there another stylist in the industry whom you look up to?

Cher: Many, but mainly Katie Grand, Carine Roitfeld and Camilla Nickerson. These three respresent the best in London, Paris and New York.

IHH: Where does your inspiration come from?

Cher: Everywhere. The street. The mistakes people make. Flea markets. Old, old books.

IHH: What are three items a girl must never live without in her everyday wardrobe?

Cher: A great tailored jacket to put over anything. Dress it up or down! Probably a Dior Homme for Women or a Phi is good. A great throw-on dress for when you're in a hurry, but want to look complete. And a good pair of [Martin] Margiela boots to downplay and wear in comfort.

IHH: Heels or flats?

Cher: I'd like to say heels, but I am much more comfortable in a flat. (we'll give her slack on this one ;))

IHH: What is a typical day like for you?I

Cher: It's so varied. If I'm working, I spend half the day on Style.com prepping a job and the other half out and about in showrooms. The whole time I'm e-mailing on my BlackBerry and speaking on the phone.

IHH: Do you keep up with fashion blogs yourself, or do you watch any shows like Project Runway or Stylista?

Cher: I watched Stylista once and loved it! Project Runway is ok, but I really don't find any of them that inspiring. I went to [Central St. Martins University] where we were taught to push things to the limit, which is what fashion is all about in those early stages.

IHH: What are your three favorite fall trends this season, and what designers are you most looking forward to seeing for the Fall 2009 shows?

Cher: Martin Margiela for its genius response to fashion, Nina Ricci for its beauty and Balenciaga for its bravery and leadership. For Fall 2009, I'm always looking to Martin Margiela, Chloe and Balenciaga.