Everyday Is An Interview
Written by Riley Snowden and Mary Anne Vaccaro, BFA
Growing up, I have always been told by my mother, “Every day is an interview.” If you are unsure what she means by this, my mother emphasized that I should always look my best when going out because I never knew who I would run into out and about. I have always questioned this as a child, thinking, if I go out to the grocery store or post office, who am I trying to impress? If I see someone I know or meet someone new, they should accept me for who I am.
Well, I have learned my lesson in my late teen years and early 20s that mothers, in fact, do know best. I live by this statement now in a slightly different way, that even though I am not trying to impress anyone, going out to certain places, I still want to look the best for myself, to make myself feel good, and improve my performance for any type of activity.
In an article published by The Huffington Post, Dr. Audrey Tang, a psychologist and member of the British Psychological Society, says that by dressing up, we “walk taller,” meaning we make our posture better. Good posture has a surprising effect on one’s mood to make someone feel more confident in themselves, which in results makes the person more confident in how they look too.
So why do I bring this up? Because none other than award-winning designer Mary Anne Vaccaro can make us feel the best AND more confident in her couture clothing when we are feeling the desire to dress up. Vaccaro, located in Omaha, Nebraska, has been a designer for over 40 years and has styled anything from bridal gowns, suits, and dresses for those who are looking to enhance their look.
Mary Anne began designing at a young age, learning how to create patterns, as well as cut and sew, from her grandmother, who was a seamstress. Vaccaro studied at Minneapolis College of Art and Design and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, receiving a BFA in Fine Art, Art History, and Theatre Costuming.
The renowned designer has owned multiple businesses, specifically Mary Anne Vaccaro Design, which she has been running for over 37 years. In her role at Mary Anne Design, she has been a business owner, production manager, designer, speaker, and image stylist. Vaccaro has created wear for the New York Bridal industry, being the first designer to create bridal and bridesmaid separates in the 1980s for Bill Levkoff in New York. In addition, she is a stylist for Carlisle in New York and ran a Fashion Advertising business for several years for over 50 stores in 5 states.
To add the cherry on top, Vaccaro has her own business for cooking wear, called Invisible Apron, creating clear, invisible aprons to show off your style while making the most delicious meals.
Vaccaro has designed for those of the highest caliber, creating coronation gowns for three queens of Ak-Sar-Ben, as well as the gowns of their princesses, countesses, and courtesans. By now, I am sure you are already able to see that Vaccaro has a unique and keen sense for design.
Her style is intricate and custom-made, creating pieces that will suit and please just about anyone. Vaccaro has been recognized by Town and Country Magazine for her evening and cocktail wear, as well as her Ready-to-Wear Collections. The Durham Museum praised Vaccaro for her work in 2009 and even created an exhibit for her gowns.
Due to the exposure to design at such a young age, Vaccaro has been able to make herself a self-made, successful designer. She has been recognized nationally and talked highly of by many. Her passion and love for the industry have made her career all the more rewarding and have opened many different avenues, such as her many businesses and collaborations. So, the next time you want to get dressed up and make yourself feel great, reach out to Mary Anne Vaccaro. I am positive you will not be disappointed.
