“Coffee, e-mails, e-mails, editing, e-mails, lunch meeting, writing, e-mails, conference call, meeting, editing, e-mails, events, bed.”
That’s how Lucky’s Hayley Phelan describes her typical day (we can relate). As fashion features editor at one of theFashionSpot‘s fave mags, this lady is privy to fashion’s who, what, when and where before 99% of the rest of America. It’s a cushy position, but make no mistake — she’s certainly paid her dues. We caught up with Phelan to find out more about her style, beauty secrets and…ski ballet? Yep.
Julie Bensman: Did you always want to work at a fashion magazine?
Hayley Phelan: When I was younger, I wanted to be a fashion designer and a writer. So, in a sense, I’ve combined those two things. Throughout college, I interned at various magazines and websites (including Nylon and Fashionista.com) and that ultimately lead me to a job as an assistant editor at StyleList and then at TeenVogue.com. I didn’t set out with the intention of being so digital-centric; those just wound up being the places that would actually let me write, as oppose to assist. When I learned Eva Chen, whom I worked with at Teen Vogue, would be taking the helm at Lucky and looking for a features editor, I jumped at the chance. Eva is such a force in the industry — I can’t wait to see what I will learn here.
JB: What is the biggest misconception about being a magazine editor?
HP: That this job is super glamorous. A lot goes into making a magazine or a website — it’s not just fashion shows and champagne (although, admittedly, those are involved, too).
JB: What is the best part of your job?
HP: All of the fascinating people I meet. I get to sit down with celebrities, designers, models and immensely successful entrepreneurs — and ask them whatever I want. Fashion is full of colorful, one-of-a-kind characters — it’s fun just to sit back and listen to what these ultra-creative individuals have to say and think.
JB: Describe your personal sense of style.
HP: I tend towards simple, classic, tomboyish pieces. And comfort is key!
JB: Which designers are you really excited about right now?
HP: She’s only been around for two seasons (2.5 if you count Resort), but Rosie Assoulin has totally blown me away. She’s really bringing something unique and special to the market.
JB: Beauty products you can’t live without?
HP: Julep Bare Face Cleansing Oil, Sibu Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil, Blistex and red lipstick.
JB: Last thing you googled?
HP: “Ski ballet” — on the recommendation of a friend who obviously understands what important information to pass along. Google it. It’s amazing.
