What career path took you to Vogue China?
I was studying a Graphic Design degree at Central Saint Martins in London where I met Terry Jones, the Founder/Creative Director of the iconic i-D magazine. Terry saw my potential as a fashion stylist, so I started interning at i-D. Soon after, I met the fashion-director-at-large, Edward Enninful (who is now at British Vogue as Editor-in-Chief) and I became his fashion assistant for a few years. We worked with fashion talents such as Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, so it was an eye-opening experience and I learnt a lot. Vogue China then approached me to help launch the magazine as their Senior Fashion Style Editor, so I moved from London to Shanghai/Hong Kong.

What was your vision for Vogue China magazine?
At Vogue China I styled celebrities and models. I have a great eye for putting clothes together and would always think of different ways to revamp someone’s style. When I styled China’s most popular pop singer Chris Li Yu Chun, I made her break out of her comfort zone and recreate her whole image. She is one of China’s most stylish icons who collaborates with brands like Givenchy and Gucci.

Describe your job now as a Fashion Director.
It’s hectic! I start early, preparing my five-year-old son, Theo, for school. If I have a fashion shoot then my day usually starts around 6am or 7am. I also do personal shopping and styling for private clients and collaborate with fashion brands for VIP store events. I started my Instagram/Youtube channel @gracelamStyle and each month my husband Jason Capobianco and I produce video content to inspire others. It’s not easy being a working mum as there’s never enough time to do everything but I am a super organised person.

Was life at Vogue China as glamorous as we would imagine?
Yes and no. It always seems more glamorous as an outsider, but fashion people are quite dramatic! I tend to be realistic and practical about things. When you work with supermodels, celebrities and creatives you deal with lots of egos and need to know how to read people well to work in harmony.

Did you feel the pressure to always look the part and wear the most fashionable clothes every day?
Not really as I like to dress up anyway. If you don’t dress well or try to look presentable then how can you convince people you are good at your job? I don’t only wear big designer brands, but I like to mix and match designer clothes with high street and vintage items.

How does the Asian fashion market compare to the UK?
In Asia retail business, people tend to go for big brand names whereas in the UK people are quite diverse and have no problem wearing vintage clothes. For me it’s very important to recycle and live an eco-lifestyle.

What are your top five wardrobe essentials?
A pair of black skinny jeans, cute colour ankle socks, a pair of cool sunnies, any statement jewellery and a nice handbag.

What is the best piece of advice you could give a stylist starting out in the industry?
You cannot get to the top without working hard.

Follow Grace on Instagram: @gracelamStyle