TGtB Meets...Mark Heyes

Ahead of Bristol Fashion Week, we caught up with fashion expert and stylist to the stars Mark Heyes to talk about Spring/Summer's biggest trends, being a stylist and which celebs always get it right on the red carpet.

How did you become a professional fashion stylist?

I originally studied Graphic Design at Glasgow School of Art, but after working at a fashion store called Kookai in Glasgow, I decided that I wanted to become a stylist instead. I changed my course to illustration, and specialised in fashion. When I first started out, no one really knew what a stylist was, which was actually a blessing! It was this that helped me to land styling jobs at two of Scotland's biggest newspapers. 

When was your big break?

It was when TalkBack productions came to Scotland to do a pilot series for Channel 4 called "She's Gotta Have It" and asked if I'd like to be involved. Long story short, the pilot was a success and Channel 4 commissioned the show for a full series, which prompted me to move down to London. This was only the beginning of my career though, I hadn't made it by any means, there were a few crap bits in between when I worked in call centres and worked for free, but thank God I persevered!

What do you love most about your job?

Fashion Week is always a highlight for me. Sitting front row, interviewing the designers and seeing the collections for the first time is always a dream. It's such a crazy whirlwind experience but I wouldn't change it for the world - I still can't believe how lucky I am. 

You’ve styled thousands of women over the years. Who was your favourite person to dress?

Styling Lady Gaga was an incredible experience, but in all honesty and I'm really not just saying it, I love doing the day to day makeovers the most. Some of these women have such inspirational stories and it's incredible being able to change someone's life for the better, by something as simple as a new outfit. 

Which Hollywood star do you think always gets it right on the red carpet?

I always look out for Julianne Moore, I think that she dresses amazingly, especially for a woman of her age. Kerry Washington is also an incredible fashionista, she pushes the boundaries without looking silly and is always on the cutting edge of fashion. 

What influences your style choices when dressing a celebrity?

I'm always aware of what women want to cover up and what they want to show off. I'm a massive advocate of accentuating the good parts and minimising those areas of concern. 

What’s been one of the biggest challenges you’ve had to overcome as a stylist?

In terms of doing makeovers, an awful lot of women are very stubborn with their ideas and aren't too open to change. So trying to get women out of that mind set can sometimes be quite challenging. From the women I makeover to the models that I style on ITV, I never want anyone to go out in an outfit that they don't like or that they don't feel comfortable in. I think a woman will always carry herself better if she feels confident in the outfit she's in. 

Of all the big trends happening right now, which is the best to invest in?

The 1970s is going to be mammoth over the coming months, it's literally going to take over the whole of summer - I can't stress how huge it's going to be! Keep an eye out for floaty 1970s inspired boho looks, sleek flare trousers, vintage New York City chic and edgy 1970s thrift shop style pieces. Stripes are also going to be everywhere too, this is the other big look of the season. 

What are you most looking forward to about Bristol Fashion Week?

I love this job, I've done it for so many years now, so Bristol's almost become like a second home to me. From a selfish point of view, I love coming back for the city, Kathmandu is my favourite restaurant in the world and I love running on the Downes. In terms of Bristol Fashion Week, I think what they've managed to accomplish is quite incredible, it's a phenomenal fashion event and I can't wait to be back!

Are you looking forward to working alongside Lucy Watson from MIC?

I think Lucy's great, I'm really excited to be working with her. She's a really sweet girl and I think we're going to have a lot of fun together. She's got a pretty mean fashion sense too, so I know she's going to look flawless! 

Does Lorraine Kelly ever ask you for fashion advice? 

I'm constantly on the phone to Lorraine, we've known each other for the best part of 14 years and she's a really great mate! I'm always there for her - no matter what the fashion crisis. When I'm out shopping I'll see a dress and think “oh my God, that's the most Lorraine dress that I've ever seen" and buy it for her.