As the style expert judge on Oxygen Network’s new show “Hair Battle Spectacular,” Lindsay Albanese knows a thing or two about what goes in to creating an amazing look from head to toe.
Starting her career as the wardrobe stylist for Entertainment Tonight opened a number of doors for Lindsay including styling for American Idol, The Today Show, ET on MTV and award shows such as The Golden Globes, Academy Awards, The Grammy’s, and Cannes Film Festival.
Her amazing eye for fashion and invaluable style advice has allowed Lindsay to work with some of Hollywood’s most recognizable names. She is currently a contributing editor for Life&Style Magazine and can be seen regularly as a style expert for various segments on television.
We sat down with this fashionista to discuss her new role on “Hair Battle Spectacular,” favorite designers, and the must-have items for this fall season.
You have quite the impressive resume. How did you get your start as a stylist?
9 years ago I enrolled in the design program at FIDM. I thought I wanted to be a designer and even sold a line of embellished t-shirts to Nordstrom when I was 20 years old. I quickly realized that my passion wasn’t in design. I found myself drawn to pulling pieces from all sorts of designers and creating looks based off an assortment of collections. This was a time before stylists were in the media so most people had no clue what I was talking about when I said I wanted to be a stylist.
Tell us about your new show Hair Battle Spectacular? What role do you play?
HBS is an outrageous fantasy hair show where contestants live together and compete in different challenges. It’s a reality series that features ten of America’s hottest stylists competing against each other to see who can deliver the biggest and best in fantasy hair design. In addition to creating these larger than life hairstyles, contestants are required to create an outfit that goes with the theme of the week, which is where my expertise comes in. I am there to judge on the overall look…from hair to toe. I’m also in charge of eliminating one contestant each week.
What advice do you have for aspiring stylists?
Take every single fashion job that comes your way no matter how small or little the pay. I worked for 3 years without making much money at all! (I waited tables on the side). When you take every opportunity that comes your way you learn a lot about what you like and dislike about the profession. You never know where those jobs will lead you or what relationship may help you in the future.
Your job requires you to work with a number of different designers. Who are some of your favorite?
I’m a big fan of Alexander Wang, Gryphon, Foley and Corinna, Temperley, TIBI, Christian Cota, and the list goes on. You will also see me pulling from more practical stores like Urban Outfitters, Steve Madden, H&M and Aldo on a regular basis! These are the best places to shop when you’re looking to incorporate inexpensive items into your wardrobe.
If you could style anyone, who would it be and why?
I would LOOOOOVE to style Britney Spears. At one time she was on fire and hotter then ever. I know she has been through so much and has evolved but I think her style hasn’t. She’s so beautiful and her body is too hot to be wearing things that look like she stepped out of the 90’s. I want her!!!
What fashion trends can we expect for this fall season?
You can expect a little bit of everything this fall season. From rocker chic to frilly, romantic pieces. Lace and sheer fabrics are HUGE, so are skyscraper heels and platforms. Menswear inspired pieces like trouser pants and blazers will be a big hit
Check out Lindsay on “Hair Battle Spectacular” every Tuesday night at 10pm ET/PT on Oxygen!