In true leading lady style, Elizabeth Belkin is sharp, smart, and always chic. I had the pleasure of meeting Elizabeth, back in August at the DIA, during one of Detroit's most fashionable nights,  Fash Bash 2016. 

After our initial conversation what stood out in my mind besides her amazing sense of cool sophisticated style, is her, genuine way we connected.  We shared stories about working in the industry from east-coast to west and through the midwest. 

She has over 20 years in the fashion and retail industry.  While talking with her, I quickly learned she was basically born into fashion, as her mother, Hattie, was quite the pioneer in the fashion world.  What makes Elizabeth a true leading lady, is how she forged her own impressive career path within the industry. We are inspired by her journey from design to working with luxury retail brands like Marc Jacobs, Prada, Cartier and now the go-to gal for one of the most well known (yet, best kept secret) therealreal.com. 

In our interview below, she shares a bit about her career journey, her personal and professional inspiration and of course, her very own style notes of the season. 

{SS}: What is your current profession?

{EB}: My current profession is Luxury Client Manager for the RealRealThe RealReal.com is the leader in authenticated luxury consignment providing the largest selection of authentic luxury items including men's and women's fashion, fine jewelry and watches, children's and fine art and home.

 We recently expanded our white glove service to Metro Detroit.  The service is personal and we help you clean out your closet and decide what is right to sell and to keep.  Its so easy and you can make up to 70% commission!  We do all the work!  I was a consignor before I started working for the company so I have experienced the incredible service first hand!

I got started in Fashion at the age of six.  My mother was famed retailer Hattie and I fell in love with the business of fashion through her passion and talent.  I was lucky enough to also experience working in management for Cartier, Bulgari and Miu Miu.  

{SS}: Tell us about your typical day.?

{EB}: My typical day consists of the following.  I wake up at 7 and hopefully my boyfriend brings me coffee!  I can't function until I drink half a cup. I go to my office first thing and answer emails and get organized for my day. I try to fit in a workout in the am as well.  I usually have at a minimum of two white glove appointments but sometimes up to five.  I get home at the end of day and review all of the products and get them prepared to ship to the warehouse.  Hopefully if i am not too tired, I try to squeeze in dinner with friends or my boyfriend.

{SS}: What do you love about your job?

{EB}: I love my job because I get to meet so many great new people.  It is such a pleasure to introduce my clients to the RealReal.  I love getting into peoples closets and help them to let go…  It is a tough thing for many people to let go of their things.  Once they get hooked, and see their items sell, they can't stop consigning.  It is really addicting!

{SS}: Any advice to those starting out in your profession?

{EB}: My advice for getting into the fashion business is to have a thick skin.  It is not all glitz and glamour and like any profession you choose, you must be dedicated and have a true passion for it.  

{SS}: What would you tell your 23 year old self??

{EB}: My advice to my 23 year old self would to be just breathe and let life happen.  I am such a planner and wanted everything to happen immediately. (marriage, career, etc..) My mother always said that youth is wasted on the young.  It is so true.

{SS}: Where do you get your daily news fix??

{EB}: I get my daily news fix a few places.  I love reading The Skimm, I start my day with the Today Show and then listen to CNN in my car all day. 

{SS}: What do you do to make yourself feel beautiful, confident and ready to take on anything? ?

{EB}: I do a few things to make myself feel beautiful.  I would say exercise is the most important one.  I feel so great whether it is a spin class, a run or a great pilates session.

{SS}: What is your “Style Archetype?”?

{EB}: My style Archetype is Classic.  But I like to inject a little trend but only when it is something that suits my figure and personality.

{SS}: Who is your Style Icon? ?

{EB}: My style Icon has been and always will be my Mother, Hattie!!  She always inspires me when I get dressed.

{SS}: Where do you find style + fashion inspiration? ?

{EB}: My style inspiration really comes from my obsession with fashion.  I read so many blogs, check out all the luxury websites and watch many fashion shows and read WWD (the retail and fashion bible) daily! I am always on the iPad (ask my boyfriend).

{SS}: Fall “style trend” you are loving?  Fall “style trend” you are over…? (or never cared for)

{EB}: My favorite Fall trend is mixing puffer jackets over a gown or a dress.  I also love the power one shoulder look (I am an eighties girl).  I am not so fond of velvet.  It is everywhere in shoes, handbags and RTW.  I don't mind a little velvet, but too much is not good.

{SS}: What is your power song?

{EB}: My favorite power song is "You've got the Love" by Florence and the Machine. It moves me everytime!

{SS}: What is your power outfit or accessory (The thing you know you look and feel your best in)? 

{EB}: My favorite outfit or my go to is a fabulous bow blouse, fitted blazer, skinny jeans or leather pants and booties or a chunky sandal.  I always wear something of my mothers, whether it a piece of jewelry, a top or a handbag.

{SS}: Who inspires you and why?

{EB}: I am truly inspired by the best two little girls in the world, Sloane and Nicki. They are my nieces and are so smart, funny and adorable and I am so lucky to have them in my life.  They always make my heart melt!

{SS}: What are YOUR “words to live by” or favorite saying/quote? 

{EB}: My favorite quote is

 

{SS}: Please share with us some of your "Love Love…" some of your favorite LOCAL stops in Detroit? / Metro Detroit? 

{EB}: My favorite place to shop is Tender in Birmingham.  They have the most beautiful assortment of European and American designers.

My favorite salon is Escova in Birmingham.  Loretta Bardha gives the best haircut and blowout and Jeffrey Martin is the most talented makeup artist I have ever worked with!

For sunday brunch, I love going to Toast in Birmingham.  They have the best bloody mary in town!

For dinner, I love Bella Piatti for the best italian food and always a great vibe! Phoenicia has the best lebanese and I have been going there since I was a little girl. In Detroit, my new favorite is, Grey Ghost –  must try it! 

To experience the epitome of culture in Detroit, one has to visit the DIA

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Editor's note:  interested in a free consultation with Elizabeth Belkin?  You can email her at: elizabeth.belkin@therealreal.com