CALIFORNIA COOL

12 Questions with Lauren Conrad

If it weren’t for the wild success of The Hills, reality television on MTV would not have become the draw that it is today. Hills star Lauren Conrad became almost a household name due to her time on the show, as well as Laguna Beach. And now the budding fashion designer is set to make a television comeback with a new show that began taping this fall, and will likely air next spring. If only every teenager could be plucked out of math class to have access to the true movers and shakers in society. Aside from teary mascara scenes and a few bad dates, this young lady, unlike her reality co-stars, is past all the melodrama and seems poised to embark on a future that is fashionably bright. By Ishra Sharif

IS: You have been touring for not one but two books that you released on the same day last month. Did you ever think you would be writing when you were a Laguna Beach high school student?
LC: I always loved to read but if someone told me I would be a NY Times Bestselling Author, I think I would have told them they were nuts. It has been such an amazing experience and I really found a huge love for writing.

IS: What do you hope that girls learn after reading the third instalment in the LA Candy series: Sugar & Spice?
LC: I just want people to have a fun read and to remember to take the time to read.

IS: Lauren Conrad Style. How do you feel about being dubbed a style icon?
LC: Am I an icon? I just feel like fashion is a love of mine and what better way to celebrate it than to tell others what I have learned along the way.

IS: How would you describe your personal style at present? How was it changed since you were first thrust into the spotlight?
LC: Right now, I am all about the boyfriend blazer and skinny jeans. I think the best style advice is keep it simple, make sure it fits, and be comfortable in your clothes.

IS: How did The Hills help your positioning in the fashion industry?
LC: Being on TV opened so many doors for me and I am so grateful.

IS: There are couture designers, ready-to-wear, contemporary labels and mainstream brands. What labels or designers are your current favourites? How do you like to add your own twist or mix everything together?
LC: I really like Marc Jacobs, Phillip Lim and Alice + Olivia to name a few. I think if you buy one staple item like a little black dress that is a bit pricier it can last for years and you can accessorize it for any occasion.

IS: What is your number one style tip for young twenty-something’s such as yourself?
LC: Don’t follow trends blindly. Do what is right for you and your body type.

IS: You seem happy to be returning to MTV. What persuaded you to come back to reality television?
LC: I am excited for people to see me working, rather than just following my personal life.

IS: You’re a spokesperson, author, designer, business woman, celebrity, daughter, sister and girlfriend. How do you manage such a lifestyle? Even “everyday girls” who only have half the titles you do are overwhelmed and feeling the pressure. What’s your secret?
LC: Don’t be what everyone wants you to be. Just be the best for you. Set your own goals and don’t be too hard on yourself. Nothing is that serious.

IS: In Hollywood, looking good is the job requirement. What advice do you provide when it comes to living in Hollywood?
LC: Keep your old friends. They are the ones who were there for you before and will be there for you after.

IS: For fashion girls (or boys) getting into the industry, what is your best piece of advice based on your past experiences and mistakes?
LC: Learn from as many people as you can. School, internships and jobs. Experience is the best.

IS: The industry is so fast-paced and ever-changing. Where do you see your style-self 5 years from now?
LC: I hope as a designer doing what I love.