Remi Landau, who graduated from Syracuse University with a bachelor’s degree in sociology, most recently worked at Bergdorf Goodman as a personal stylist’s assistant, where she oversaw digital marketing and research and the selection of luxury brand apparel for a wide variety of customers. In addition, Remi interned at Epix, Weitz & Luxenberg, and Harpers Bazaar while in school. With the former, she assisted in the coordination of client picture sessions and the development of a comprehensive strategy to help recruit talent and enhance the Epix brand.
“I always knew I wanted to work for myself,” Remi said. She started her own blog when she was in high school and has always been interested in fashion. However, her work experience taught her that she would need to gain much more than just an interest in fashion if she is to be successful.
“As a stylist assistant, I tried on clothes for customers,” she recalled. “To do this effectively, you have to know what brands fit you. But, unfortunately, I didn’t know all of them, especially the designer ones.”
She also studied up on fashion history, which she found to be very interesting. This interest led her to study sociology at Syracuse University. She used this knowledge throughout her internship at Epix, an independent entertainment company headquartered in New York City. Remi still keeps in touch with one of her mentors from Epix, and she makes sure she does not “forget where [she] came from.”
When asked for advice for young people looking to break into the fashion industry, Remi said, “Find out what your interests are. It’s important to find something that you’re passionate about.”
She went on to say that there are hidden opportunities everywhere. This is the main reason why she decided to intern at Epix for no pay instead of taking on a similar internship in fashion. She also made sure to have something to show for her time there. “People loved my writing,” she said when asked what skills she gained from working there.
“I do regret not having any experience in fashion,” she continued. “I was a loss when I first started. It takes time to become comfortable in the industry.”
Remi said that her biggest challenge so far has been not getting discouraged, especially since she has so much experience in other fields. It takes time to adjust to the fast-paced nature of fashion.
“I used to hate being professional,” Remi went on. “I’m not that person anymore.”
She stressed the importance of accepting different challenges throughout your career. She cited her work at Epix as an example of something that, at first, she thought she could not succeed at. “Be open to new opportunities,” Remi advised.
Remi’s advice for young people is to “just be yourself.” She acknowledged that this could be difficult sometimes, but it has helped her get through some challenging situations in life.
“And don’t forget to treat others the way you want to be treated.”
When asked what she wants to do in five years, Remi said she hopes to have her own business. She said that there is not a single field or job title for this dream of hers. It could range from starting a blog on fashion, consulting for different companies, or being a personal stylist.
