An Interview with Jessica Bumpus - Fashion Features Editor at Vogue.com
There are so many interesting jobs in fashion and it's hard to learn what people really do. I had the opportunity to ask Jessica Bumpus from VOGUE.COM a few questions about her job.
What does a Fashion Features Editor do?
JB - As fashion features editor at VOGUE.COM I write and break daily fashion news (with my colleague Lauren Milligan), interview designers, compile and edit the VOGUE.COM Loves page (looking for interesting new designers, products, places etc. to feature), edit and compile the Street Chic pages (whereupon I take to the streets of London – or go to places like Chelsea Flower Show and Royal Ascot - to find the capital’s most stylish people), as well as attend/cover events and the shows during Fashion Week – which I especially love. It's busy, varied and exciting – again, all of which I love.
What is the best part about your job?
JB - The variety, and the fact it’s the job that I always wanted to do - being a fashion journalist - and I’m actually doing it. One day I could be out reporting on the shows during London Fashion Week, another I could be filming or politely chasing someone down the street to take their picture for Street Chic and on another I’ll be wading through hundreds of emails in the office.
Another great part of my job is the people I get to meet and work with; from new designers that you're really excited about to established designers that you've admired for so long, and the rest of the VOGUE.COM fashion team.
Who is your favourite writer?
JB - That's a really difficult question and depends on what exactly I’m reading, though I don't think I have just one favourite - I just like to read as much as I can by a variety of people. It's always good to get a different perspective on things.
What are you reading right now?
JB - The new issue of Vogue, J.B. Priestley's The Good Companions and Carrie’s War – which I saw at the theatre at the weekend and just loved. I’m also getting excited about the new Philippa Gregory books that are coming out.
What advice do you have for someone wanting to get into the fashion industry?
JB - Work hard, be willing, keen and enthusiastic – but be realistic – and try and do as much work experience as you can. It's the way in and it's invaluable in terms of you learning about yourself and developing your own skills, as well as finding out about the way the industry works, which is something that can’t be taught in a classroom.
I've heard you never wear the same outfit twice. Is this true?
JB - Um, possibly! Though it's not necessarily on purpose – I do just have a very vast wardrobe and pluck things out from years and years ago that people have never seen before, mixed with new purchases and old favourites. I like to think of it as collecting!
What is your favourite flavour of crisps?
JB - I’m not too keen on crisps but if I had to make a choice it would be Walkers Worcester Sauce or Flamin’ Hot Monster Munch, I think.