How a Chicago Native Became a Celebrity Stylist—And Where She Shops for Clients

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• Jaqueline Rezak.
• Rad tee, $55
• Rad Mini Dress, $65
• Refined Jacket, $78

What better time than awards season to introduce you to Jacqueline Rezak, a Highland Park native now lives in Hollywood styling celebrities. She also just partnered up with Brandi Cyrus (that'd be Miley's sister) to launch the feminine, edgy line Rad Basics for her online boutique Rad and Refined. Read on to learn more about the hometown girl's favorite stores, sources of inspiration, and her big foray into styling (hint: it was in her living room.)

First thing's first: Who's your celebrity style crush?
Harry Styles, just wow.

And, what's the best fashion or beauty tip you've picked up from your celeb clients?
One client once told me before it was my turn to be interviewed to smile and be myself, there is nothing more beautiful than that. Ever since then, when I am nervous I think back to that time and have the confidence to do anything.
How has your personal style changed since leaving Highland Park for Los Angeles?
When living in Highland Park as a teenager, I always had a very casual and comfortable style. Usually a college sweatshirt or a cool rock t-shirt paired with jeans. Then when I finished high school and moved downtown to pursue my college degree, I began to dress a bit more "grown up." I swapped the comfy clothes for a more sophisticated "downtown" look. Now living in LA, I have combined my love for comfortable clothing and dressier looks to create my Los Angeles style, which can be described as beachy and casual, and over all, Rad and Refined.

Do you ever miss bundling up in cute winter gear? Or not so much?
Not so much...Cold in LA is like those Chicago days when everyone wants to wear shorts and go for a run outside because it finally got to 55 degrees.

Tell us about how you became a celebrity stylist! Is it something you always wanted to do?
I have always loved fashion and dressing my friends up. I used to have my best friends over when I was younger and we would all dress up to put on a fashion show in my house. The audience would consist of my mom, grandma, dad, and aunt—and despite how many times we put on the show, they would always encourage me to be creative and never give up. That played a big role in choosing my career as a stylist.

What is the most surprising aspect of your job, and what is the most fun part of it all?
The most surprising part of my job always seems to be that it is not all glitz, glam and meeting celebrities, although those are pluses. There is a lot of organization, planning, fittings and computer work that goes into styling as well. The best part for me is getting to work with and learn from such amazing photographers, hair and makeup artists, designers, and talent.

How do you get inspiration for celebrity ensembles?
My inspiration can be found anywhere—from a person passing me on the street to a look spotted in a vintage magazine. I am constantly being inspired, every day.

Where are your favorite shops and websites to shop for your famous clients?
My clients all have their favorite designers and brands, so I am always keeping an eye out for new items for them. This includes checking the "what's new" section on a lot of different web sites—to name a few, Rad and Refined, Net-a-porter, and Shopbop. I love collecting vintage items for my clients from WGACA and Decades, another favorite is Reformation, Rag & Bone, Intermix and many more.

Which up-and-coming designers are you most excited about?
I am most excited about my new collaboration with Brandi Cyrus for Rad and Refined. We have designed a few feminine but still edgy pieces to add to the Rad Basics collection. I love designing with Brandi. We have such a similar style that our ideas work perfectly together, and we have a great time doing it.

How would you describe your line in five words?
My line is for the cool and refined chick, effortlessly rad. Made in LA, all items retail under $100.

· Jacqueline Rezak [Official Site]
· Rad and Refined [Official Site]