"It's more interesting to have just a picture of a small detail - then you can dream all the rest around it.
Because when you see the whole thing, what is there to imagine?" -Dries Van Noten

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Mary Alice Stephenson

Style and Beauty Expert. New York

Any excuse to venture to Brooklyn is fine by us. And when stylist Mary Alice Stephenson calls your name, you jump on the L train faster than you can say, “Oscar de la Renta." MA, as we now get to call her, is one of the world’s most sought after beauty and style experts who appropriately has her painted nails in everything fashion-related. You might see her on TV or backstage reporting from the top runways or front-and-center on the red carpet. An industry-veteran, Stephenson's followers are in the five figures and she's even worked with the First Lady, Mrs. MObama. Lending her expertise to multiple publications, she’s jumped mastheads throughout her career, working with Vogue, Allure, Marie Claire and Harper’s Bazaar.  Her styling credits includes some of Hollywood’s most fashionable celebrities and she's even consulted with some serious Fortune 500 brands. Amidst the chaos of PTA meetings, this mom-on-the-go also manages to find the time to be the National Fashion Ambassador for the "Make A Wish Foundation." And then there's her closet...Talk about Academy Award winning...Designed by The Closet Factory, this over-the-top fashion library takes up the entire upper floor of her Brooklyn brownstone. But, there’s a system to MA's madness, it’s all about organization. “I co-ordinate my clothing by category. So, all blouses together, all pants, skirts, fur... then by color. I also make sure all my hangers are hung properly, which makes everything look neat and easy to see,” she says. And we couldn't help but squeeze a few sartorial secrets out of her. “When I’m exhausted and feeling the opposite of pretty, I pop on a pair of earrings so no one will look at my face,” Stephenson confesses. “They just see all that pretty on my ears." Noted. Although hard to believe she could ever have such a dilemma...

Digital Inspiration

Comments
I had closet factory come in and work with me to create my dream closets. I no longer have to worry about keeping things organized because my closets were customized around my wardrobe.... Bag, Louis Vuitton
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I had closet factory come in and work with me to create my dream closets. I no longer have to worry about keeping things organized because my closets were customized around my wardrobe. Jewelry, bag and shoe collections, as well as my life. It has made my life so much easier in so many ways. Now I want to have Closet Factory do every closet in my home. 

I bought the Stephen Sprouse x Louis Vuitton embellished travel bag in Paris at the Champs Elysée Vuitton store. I was there to see the collections, and I remember popping in and buying it between shows. They were very hard to get because so few were done, when I saw it I got goose bumps. So that's when I knew I had to buy it! </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Bag, Louis Vuitton</span>
I have been collecting jewellery for years. I love big, bold statement pieces that can instantly give edge and wow to anything I wear. I have consulted for many jewellery designers, and... Jewelry, Various Desingers
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I have been collecting jewellery for years. I love big, bold statement pieces that can instantly give edge and wow to anything I wear. I have consulted for many jewellery designers, and they often use my collection for inspiration. I love my gowns, bags, and shoes, but it's my jewelry that puts soul into my style. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Jewelry, Various Desingers</span>
The legendary photographer Terry O'Neil gave me this picture of Bridget Bardot after we worked together on a project. It is sexy, raw, and perfect for my dressing room. Jewelry, Various Designers
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>The legendary photographer Terry O'Neil gave me this picture of Bridget Bardot after we worked together on a project. It is sexy, raw, and perfect for my dressing room. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Jewelry, Various Designers</span>
I co-ordinate all my clothing by category. All blouses go together, all pants, skirts, furs...then by colour. I also make sure all of my hangers match, and my pieces are hung properly, ... Clothing, Various Designers
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I co-ordinate all my clothing by category. All blouses go together, all pants, skirts, furs...then by colour. I also make sure all of my hangers match, and my pieces are hung properly, which makes everything look neat and easy to see. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Clothing, Various Designers</span>#inline_01
As a style expert, I do many appearances and lots of media appearances, so I am expected to look my best. My closet is an important part of my career. Since I spend lots of time in my d... Clothing, Various Designers
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>As a style expert, I do many appearances and lots of media appearances, so I am expected to look my best. My closet is an important part of my career. Since I spend lots of time in my dressing room, I also keep my collection of fashion inspiration books there. It's so great to hang out in my dressing room and get inspired to create - whether for myself or for the brands I consult with. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Clothing, Various Designers</span>
I love clothes that have personality and make big statements. That means there are lots of sequins, beads, feathers and shiny things in my wardrobe! In my house, there's always a party ... Jacket and Dress, Naeem Khan
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I love clothes that have personality and make big statements. That means there are lots of sequins, beads, feathers and shiny things in my wardrobe! In my house, there's always a party going on in my closet! </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Jacket and Dress, Naeem Khan</span>#inline_02
Fendi, Givenchy, Valentino, Bottega Veneta, Kara Ross, Delvaux, Christian Louboutin...to name a few! Just like my jewelry collection, I use bags to amp up or dial down an outfit. A bag ... Bags, Various Designers
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>Fendi, Givenchy, Valentino, Bottega Veneta, Kara Ross, Delvaux, Christian Louboutin...to name a few! Just like my jewelry collection, I use bags to amp up or dial down an outfit. A bag a day keeps the doctor away! </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Bags, Various Designers</span>#inline_03
Earrings are an instant outfit game changers. I love the drama they bring to my classics and tend to buy decadent chandelier earrings everywhere I go! Here's a little secret...when ... Earrings, Various Designersa
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>Earrings are an instant outfit game changers. I love the drama they bring to my classics and tend to buy decadent chandelier earrings everywhere I go! 

Here's a little secret...when I'm exhausted and feeling the opposite of pretty, I pop on a pair so no one will look at my face. They just see all that pretty on my ears. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Earrings, Various Designersa</span>#inline_04
This one is waiting to be worn! Dress, Naeem Khan
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>This one is waiting to be worn!</span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Dress, Naeem Khan</span>#inline_05
This will be worn during award season...even if I am just sitting on my couch watching them on TV, I might have to put this on!! Dress, Naeem Khan
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>This will be worn during award season...even if I am just sitting on my couch watching them on TV, I might have to put this on!!</span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Dress, Naeem Khan</span>#inline_06
Shoes L to R, Christian Louboutin, Balmain, Givenchy
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'></span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Shoes L to R, Christian Louboutin, Balmain, Givenchy</span>#inline_07
This is a bag from my first Fendi sample sale. They used to sell these bags to editors and people would literally camp out to get them! I have not worn it in years, but I love how it re... Vest, Naeem Khan; Bag, Fendi
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>This is a bag from my first Fendi sample sale. They used to sell these bags to editors and people would literally camp out to get them! I have not worn it in years, but I love how it reminds me of my years as a fashion assistant. 

The photograph is Debby Hymowitz. I love her work. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Vest, Naeem Khan; Bag, Fendi</span>#inline_08
I consulted for Naeem Khan the past couple of years, and have loved helping him make his collections sexier and red carpet friendly. His dresses are stunning, and make women feel drop d... Dresses, Naeem Khan; Shoes, Tania Spenelli
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I consulted for Naeem Khan the past couple of years, and have loved helping him make his collections sexier and red carpet friendly. His dresses are stunning, and make women feel drop dead gorgeous! I feel fortunate to own many, and whenever I wear one I always feel my best.

This iconic photograph of Diana Ross was shot by Jim Britt, and I got it from my favourite new photography site - http://www.rockpaperphoto.com.

Shoes are from new designer Tania Spenelli.</span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Dresses, Naeem Khan; Shoes, Tania Spenelli</span>#inline_09
Bag, Christian Louboutin; Clutch, Shourouk; Necklace, Iradj Moini
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'></span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Bag, Christian Louboutin; Clutch, Shourouk; Necklace, Iradj  Moini</span>#inline_10
Metallic clutches are a red carpet go-to for me. I love how they add glam to any look. Bag, Various Designers
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>Metallic clutches are a red carpet go-to for me. I love how they add glam to any look. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Bag, Various Designers</span>#inline_11
I am 6ft. tall, but love sexy stilettos! Right now I am addicted to Givenchy because the heels are a bit shorter, but the shoes still sizzle! Top to Bottom. Shoes, Christian Louboutin, Givenchy, Givenchy, Balmain
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I am 6ft. tall, but love sexy stilettos! Right now I am addicted to Givenchy because the heels are a bit shorter, but the shoes still sizzle! </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Top to Bottom. Shoes, Christian Louboutin, Givenchy, Givenchy, Balmain</span>#inline_12
I wore this mask to an amazing halloween party Alber Elbaz had last year at his Lanvin boutique. I found it online. Alber loved it! These photographs are in my second floor hall and...
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I wore this mask to an amazing halloween party Alber Elbaz had last year at his Lanvin boutique. I found it online. Alber loved it! 

These photographs are in my second floor hall and part of my black and white photography collection. There's hardly a bare wall in my brownstone. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'></span>
I could not resist this Alaïa iPad case. I'm a huge fan of everything Mr. Alaia does! Jewelry is Erickson Beamon, Ranjana Khan, Glynneth B. I always have a stash of Sally Hanse... iPad Case, Alaïa; Necklace, Ranjana Khan; Silver Bracelets, Erickson Beamon; Bracelet with Stone, Glynneth B
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>I could not resist this Alaïa iPad case. I'm a huge fan of everything Mr. Alaia does! 

Jewelry is Erickson Beamon, Ranjana Khan, Glynneth B. 

I always have a stash of Sally Hansen nail polish in my closet. My favourite colours this year were created by Alexander Wang and Prabal Gurung. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>iPad Case, Alaïa; Necklace, Ranjana Khan; Silver Bracelets, Erickson Beamon; Bracelet with Stone, Glynneth B</span>#inline_13
The photograph is one of my favourites in my collection. It is from the Cowboy Kate series shot by Sam Haskins. Jewelry, Various Designers
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>The photograph is one of my favourites in my collection. It is from the Cowboy Kate series shot by Sam Haskins. </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Jewelry, Various Designers</span>
Whether faux or real snakeskin, it always gives anything a chic edge. Bag, Christian Louboutin
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>Whether faux or real snakeskin, it always gives anything a chic edge.</span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Bag, Christian Louboutin</span>#inline_14
My young son as often snatches my accessories and plays with then in his very all boy way! Once I found one of my Balenciaga pumps acting as a makeshift train bridge. Another time he us... Shoes, Nicholas Kirkwood; Cuff, Vintage
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>My young son as often snatches my accessories and plays with then in his very all boy way! Once I found one of my Balenciaga pumps acting as a makeshift train bridge. Another time he used a Brian Atwood as boat! 
</span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Shoes, Nicholas Kirkwood; Cuff, Vintage</span>#inline_15
After one of his little girlfriends found my closet on a playdate he soon realized it was an attention getter from the girls!! He now brings up all the little ladies from his kindergart... Silver Necklace, Robert Lee Morris; Gold Necklace, Aesa; Square Rings, Kara Ross; Ring with Stone, Miriam Haskell
<span class='fancyPhotoDesc'>After one of his little girlfriends found my closet on a playdate he soon realized it was an attention getter from the girls!! He now brings up all the little ladies from his kindergarten class and is the ringmaster for what he calls the "fashion tour"! </span><span class='fancyPhotoName'>Silver Necklace, Robert Lee Morris; Gold Necklace, Aesa; Square Rings, Kara Ross; Ring with Stone, Miriam Haskell </span>#inline_16
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