Getting Fabulous with Derek Warburton
The celebrity stylist gives us the scoop on his fashion must-haves, charity work, and the one item every woman should own!

What is "fashion" here in New York City? Fashion is fueled by the celebrities, socialites, boutiques, runways, events, artists, architecture, street-style and influenced by the top stylists of the world. Derek Warburton is the definition of Global fashion. As a well-known celebrity stylist, founder of "Derek Loves Shopping" ,and a spokesperson for many major brands & companies. Derek Warburton can be found hosting the hottest soirees at the hippest city spots during New York Fashion Week; where Derek recently hosted a charity suite filled with his celebrity clients/friends such as Keri Hilson, Eve, Kat Deluna, Kelly Cutrone, Gabrielle Union, Amanda Hearst, and Isaac Mizrahi (yes, Derek's celebrity roster is quite impressive). When Molly Sims needs to look her best, Derek can be found styling the gorgeous & down-to-earth beauty in Diane Von Furstenberg. Supermodel Jessica White also is a fashionable devotee. Derek keeps company with top fashion industry professionals such as Lauren Ruotolo of Hearst Coporation, Samantha Matteoni of Charlotte Russe (Samantha is also creator of NuttButtbakery) and PR experts such as Lori Lengua and Kelly Brady-Zegers.

Derek Warburton and Molly Sims
photo: Dana Prigge'

Dana: Derek-- as a well known celeb stylist, owner of the successful DerekLovesShopping.com website, and your career as an international media personality, what is the one item that every woman should own in her current wardrobe?

Derek: I think every woman should own a great bright colored scarf... living in the northern hemisphere so many women are wearing black coats and black everyday because it is so easy... Do not cave to the BLACK BRIGADE!!!! A colorful scarf brightens your face no matter what age you are and will always make you look more fresh!!!!

Dana: I think the men out there could really use your fashion expertise as well -- so, what's a wardrobe item that the men out there should own as well?

Derek: I think everyman needs a great trench. I don't care if you are a jeans and t-shirt kinda guy. A trench that is tailored will always make a guy into a gentleman.

Dana: I see that you do a lot of fashion driven charity work, mainly with Bottomless Closet. Can you tell me more about their mission and how you've inspired the women of the world?

Derek: First, I would like to say that I hope to ONE DAY inspire the women of the world... that is a major goal of mine. I started working with Bottomless Closet because I wanted to give back to women who have
suffered diversity. Whether you are just out of jail, living in a shelter or domestically abused the Bottomless Closet helps women get back on their feet. They provide work shops for building your resume,
being a good interview, and basic courses on how to re-enter the workplace. My "How to be Derek Fabulous" workshop focuses on self esteem and rebuilding your image.

Dana: Wow, your charity work is quite impressive! What does the word beauty mean to you?

Derek: Beauty for me is the art of self expression. I love the old quote: "Beauty is the eye of the beholder." No truer words have ever been said. I find inspiration in everyday things and will continue to.

Dana: Last, but certainly not least -- Derek what are your five fashion favorites that can be found within your amazing wardrobe?

Derek: My Five Faves are:

1. My leopard Christian Louboutins with black leather tassels

2. My leopard Glam Rocks watch

3. My black studded Burberry tote

4. My chocolate mink coat

5. My Viktor & Rolph top hat printed blazer

Derek during his Macy's appearance
About Derek Warburton:

As a fashion correspondent, stylist and motivational speaker, Derek Warburton lives by a philosophy to Help, Teach, Inspire, Love and Have Fun. As such, Derek has built a strong relationship with Housing Works and Bottomless Closet. In the fall of 2009, Derek started the "How to be Derek Fabulous" program at Bottomless Closet, in which he teaches disadvantaged women how to dress appropriately for work. His involvement with causes was recently profiled by The New York Times and Huffington Post.