DRESS UP YOUR DENIM
From breakfast meetings to glamorous launches, working in public relations means looking polished, professional and on trend. Here, the M&S fashion PR team show us how denim can work for any occasion
JESSICA HARRIS, HEAD OF PR FOR CLOTHING, HOME & BEAUTY
“I love the versatility, comfort and ease jeans offer,” says Jess, who heads up the M&S fashion PR team, responsible for generating media coverage and working with everyone from social media influencers to celebrities to top fashion editors. “I will often play with different cuts and washes to make the jeans suitable for different events,” she explains. “At the moment I favour the mid-wash straight cut, an easy outfit solution for most occasions from the school run to work events or nights out.”
KIMBERLEY KNIGHT, SENIOR PRESS OFFICER
“I love my job because every day is different,” says Kimberley. “I might start by meeting a journalist to discuss an upcoming collection, followed by a quick dash to check in with our press showroom team ahead of an event. Recent projects have included introducing our vegan-friendly footwear range, plus a collection of shoes designed by seven key social-media influencers. I’ll then head back to the office to attend meetings and reply to journalists’ enquiries. We are always on the go! A versatile pair of jeans is a must for my working wardrobe. The key things I look for are leg-length options (as I’m 5ft 1), a great shape and multiple colour options – finding the perfect pair of jeans can be hard, so when I find them I buy them in every colour. I also love that all our denim is made using more sustainable BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) cotton.”
RAVINA KHELA, PRESS OFFICER
“I love the double denim trend,” says Ravina, who has been part of the M&S fashion PR team for a year. “It feels like a wearable way to embrace colour-blocking and suits my unfussy style. Working in PR, a lot of what we do is outward-facing. We spend a lot of time meeting journalists and external contacts, which makes us walking, talking ambassadors for M&S. Wearing our clothes out and about is a great conversation starter, and shows all the ways they can be styled.”
RACHEL REYNOLDS, PR MANAGER
“I always start the day reviewing M&S coverage and catching up on industry news,” says Rachel. “I reply to any media requests, pulling information together for fashion features, and arrange interviews with M&S experts. I work with my team on creative ideas around launching new products, and plan large-scale events like the spring/summer preview. I’ve always loved being surrounded by stylish products and through the years I’ve learnt how to refine my wardrobe essentials. I like versatile pieces I can dress up or down. Having a good selection of denim helps – these skinnies are the most comfortable pair of jeans I own, down to the clever innovations and 360-contour stretch. They work for every season and offer so many styling options.”
LAUREN JENKINS, PR MANAGER
“We often have to go to events in the evening, so I always have statement heels and a fab pair of earrings on hand to get ready,” says Lauren. “I love the print clash in this outfit; each piece is a classic on its own but layering them up takes it in a completely different direction. White jeans are surprisingly versatile and a refreshing move away from blue or black.”
SHELLY SMITH, SENIOR PRESS OFFICER
“I’ve been working in the M&S PR team for 18 years,” says Shelly. “My job means I constantly speak to fashion influencers and journalists, and see new trends grow. I have my own go-to style but like to add a twist to my outfits. Wide-leg cropped denim is a good alternative to skinny jeans and can be dressed up with heels for the office or down with trainers for running around with the kids. The fit of M&S denim is great for me and the affordability means I can buy into multiple styles.”
Editor: Sophie Hines Photographer: David Gubert Stylist: Karen Preston Hair stylist: Ben Cooke
Make-up artist: Karina Constantine Manicurist: Kim Treacy
