On Sunday, May 2nd, thirty WonderGirls gathered at LIM College in Manhattan, NY for Fashion: The REAL 411! The girls were from the City, New Jersey, Long Island, Connecticut and as far away as Texas.

The day began with Ann Shoket, Editor in Chief of Seventeen magazine talking about her career in publishing (she began at American Lawyer before the internet was invented), sharing some behind-the-scenes glimpses into the process of creating each monthly edition (no, it’s not like The Devil Wears Prada) and encouraging the girls to “dream bigger.” She explained that she wants every teen girl to discover and celebrate what’s different about herself.

The girls then attended a series of three mini-workshops over the next three hours. They interacted with and learned from some incredible women — fashion industry experts all: Tammy Tibbetts of donatemydress.org; Shaari Gross of Focus Showroom; designer Abigail Lorick; designer Lauren Walsh; PR expert Jill Snowden; internet entrepreneur Sarah Johnson; stylist Mia Morgan; Seventeen’s fashion editor Gina Kelly; and model Jill Johnson.

I’m thrilled to report that two girls were offered internships on the spot by workshop leaders who were clearly impressed by the exceptional quality and originality of the ideas that the girls shared.

The last workshop was a design experience in which each girl created her own masterpiece — a trompe l’oeil necklace t-shirt using faux jewels, pearls and semi-precious crystals. The results were original, fashion-forward and as individual as each of the girls. I’m sure they’ll be wearing them around the City in the coming weeks.

Finally, amid much excitement, it was time for Stacy London to address the group. Stacy, celebrity fashion stylist and host of “What Not To Wear” couldn’t have been a more perfect WonderGirls speaker! She stressed the importance of presenting yourself on the outside to reflect your unique personality on the inside. She talked about how clothing and fashion and grooming are choices we make that tell the world how we think of ourselves. Stacy encouraged the girls to think of themselves as “snowflakes” — each one different, each one perfect exactly as she is.

I cannot imagine a more successful day of WonderGirls messages! The girls left beaming with confidence and new ideas about how to be in the world. I can’t wait to hear the stories of accomplishments and triumphs that grow out of the day’s experience!

For photos and a press review of the day’s events, check out our Buzz page.

The fun at The WonderGirls continues! We’re holding a special 3-day workshop series to start off your summer vacation! Sign up today for our Summer program:
June 22, 23 and 24 (noon to 5pm) — it’s a great deal at $300 for 3 days of exciting speakers and innovative projects. Go directly to summer workshops!