from staff
Lori Cassidy is the costume and sterling jewelry buyer for Jacksonville-based Stein Mart Inc., which operates 264 fashion stores for women and men in 29 states and Washington, D.C. Cassidy was named to the 2011 Merchants Hall of Fame by Accessories magazine, a leading fashion trade publication considered the voice of the accessories industry. Cassidy has 28 years of retail experience, including 15 with Stein Mart.
How did you choose this career path?
I chose it during college when I met repeatedly with retail representatives who visited my campus to recruit graduates. I have always been a student of fashion and realized that it would be the perfect world for me – applying my knowledge of the trends to building an assortment to suit a target audience. It is both challenging and very rewarding when your hunches and instincts pay off.
What are the top accessories for women this summer and fall?
The single ‘must have’ item is a bracelet. That includes bangles, stretch or cuffs, and a stack on the arm. Also, it becomes more interesting when you mix the media, so be creative. The second most important item is the hoop earring, whether burnished metal or a colorful version using seed beads or faceted crystals. The final key piece for every woman is a multirow, long, burnished metal chain. Or, if you are not a chain gal, then a casted metal link necklace is the perfect alternative. Again it is quite versatile and can be dressed ‘up’ or ‘down.’
Which accessories are your personal favorites?
A giant pair of earrings and lots of bracelets. They are for ‘everyday’ for me, regardless of the trend. For me, it is my personal statement.
Which accessories are out-of-style but still make their way into our daily fashion choices? Do any make you cringe?
There is really not an accessory that is ever out of style, other than perhaps a fabric hair bow. Most anything is acceptable if worn correctly and with like items. What makes me cringe are leggings with a top that is ‘too short.’ Leggings are meant to be worn with tunics as they are so formfitting that any other look is inappropriate.
Do you have advice for young people who aspire to a career in fashion?
The fashion business, particularly retail, is not for the faint of heart. Every day you get a ‘report card,’ the daily sales results from the prior day, and it can be sobering. It is difficult to stay focused and positive if the sales look soft, but often it is due to a calendar shift or even the weather. If you are passionate about it, you will likely be successful.