KITRI Spotlight: Alyssa Coscarelli

#KITRIspotlight
Meet our creative, intelligent and simply brilliant friends who inspire KITRI in every single way.

Meet Alyssa Coscarelli, Senior Fashion Market Editor at Refinery 29. Ambitious and creative, Alyssa has amassed an impressive following thanks to her covetable sense of style and seriously addictive Instagram account @alyssainthecity. We caught up with Alyssa after the madness of fashion week, to talk about her career, transitional dressing and where to hang out in her hometown of New York.

We’d love to know more about your career path so far! Did you always know that you wanted to work in the fashion industry?
I knew I wanted to work in fashion from a young age. I changed outfits a million times a day as soon as I knew how to dress myself, and by the time I was a teenager my favourite movies were 13 Going on 30 and The Devil Wears Prada! So, I headed to NYC to study at LIM College, a private college in midtown dedicated to the business side of fashion. I did a bunch of internships but ultimately landed at Refinery29 my senior year, and continued working there full-time once I graduated. I haven’t left since! Currently I’m the Senior Fashion Market Editor which means I write stories every day about fashion, trends, styling tips, brands, designers, industry happenings and more. With my influencer work on the side, things get hectic, but I love my career and wouldn’t have it any other way.

Breaking into such a competitive industry can be tough. What advice would you give to anyone looking for a career in fashion?
My advice would be to be confident in yourself, stay true to your authentic style, make as many connections and network as much as possible, and put in the work. My parents always told me that if you put in the work doing what you love, the rest will follow and I stand by that.

How would you describe your style and what do you typically wear to work?
It’s impossible to define my style because it’s always changing, but lately it’s trendy and often vintage inspired. I’ll try any trend at least once. Luckily since I work at a creative women’s media company we can really express ourselves and stay true to our personal styles at work. I’ll often wear jeans or trousers and a fun blouse or a vintage dress with booties.

We love to see you wear KITRI! Why did you choose these pieces?
I love Kitri because it’s on trend without looking like every single thing on the market. It’s fun and unique. I chose these pieces because they touch on the trends I’m loving lately, from leopard print to checked prints and fun statement sleeves.

Any top tips for transitioning your wardrobe into Autumn?
Swap your sandals for some booties and break out the outerwear! After long, hot summers I’m always ready to break out my favourite jackets. I’m also excited about midi length dresses and long sleeve blouses come fall. And since it’s still the transitional season, you can still get away with showing a little leg.

We’re in New York for 24 hours—where should we go?
The Met Museum, Central Park, the Plaza, then head downtown to Washington Sq Park, and work your way down to shop and eat in Soho.

Who should we be following on Instagram?
@r29style, my friend @blindsaay, @homeunion, @lalahdelia

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Whenever I’m stressed or frustrated or overwhelmed my Dad always likes to remind me that a year from now or in the future, whatever is happening now will all be a distant memory, or something to even laugh at. It’s a piece of advice I always keep with me to put things in perspective.

What’s your party trick?
Falling asleep on a couch somewhere!

Finally, what’s next?
I can’t say much, but I’m really excited for what the future holds, from collaborations to new projects to exciting trips. Stay tuned :)