Marie Claire's Accessories Director Kyle Anderson On How to Work in Fashion

There are only so many people I can actually stand to follow on Twitter, let's face it. Marie Claire Accessories Director Kyle Anderson is definitely one. I mean, he tweets photos of gorgeous shoes and actually engages with his followers. What more could we ask for, honestly? I personally love Kyle. Why? Because he seems like a really hard worker with an incredibly unique fashion statement always (but, have you seen his fashion week outfits?) and, of course, genuine. He also lives at Barneys, Bergdorfs and Starbucks, so we could totally be BFFs. 

Luckily, I had the quick chance to catch up with him during his busy pre-fashion week schedule to ask him about working with Nina Garcia, what trend he can't get behind and just how do you get a job in fashion? Have fun reading! 

I Heart Heels: What do you love about your job at Marie Claire? Accessories Director seems like a dream...is it? 
Kyle Anderson: As far back as elementary school I dreamed of working in fashion. I was obsessed with looking at fashion magazines at the public library, even as far back as third grade. I'm lucky enough to say that in many ways a lot of my life dreams have come true.

"A heel made with special materials feels luxe and makes people take notice." -- Kyle Anderson, Marie Claire Accessories Director

IHH: You've named Nina Garcia as a major mentor. How do you two work together regularly and what about her inspires you? 
KA: I think it's important, especially working in fashion, that your boss has a similar aesthetic to you. For the most part, we like the same bags...shoes...collection...jewelry. So that makes working [together] a lot easier. She's given me many opportunities as well as hiring me for my first job at Elle eight years ago.

IHH: What is it about a high heel that makes you take notice in editorial? I'm always loving your tweets!
KA: I think people expect a high heel. Ive tried shooting flats and people haven't really liked it. A heel made with special materials feels luxe and makes people take notice. 

IHH: Fashion week is approaching. Do you plan your outfits in advance or is it on a whim?
KA: Definitely planned in advance. Not what will be worn each day, but just the fact that it's not just "sitting-at-the-desk-typing" kind of outfits. I try to have more fun and wear things that make fashion week more exciting.

"Never say never and be open minded. The old saying 'everything happens for a reason' is kind of true. You have to think of life that way or you'll go crazy."

IHH: Your style is so original. Is there anything out there that just makes you nauseous in fashion? 
KA: I never say never because you just never know. The minute you say you hate something you're sure to see that on the runway. I used to say I hate overalls. Now I see them at Balmain and I kind of want some. You never know. In general, I can say I haven't really ever been a fan of preppy. 

IHH: If you aren't at Barneys, we can find you hanging out where? 
KA: Starbucks or Bergdorfs. 

IHH: Any advice to those looking to become fashion editors in their future?
KA: Never give up. People definitely did not give me many - if any - opportunities for jobs in the beginning. Before Nina, nobody ever gave me a chance, even having had six internships and working like crazy. It was really tough. Never give up and try new opportunities as they arrive. Never say never and be open minded. The old saying 'everything happens for a reason' is kind of true. You have to think of life that way or you'll go crazy.

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