Jeanne Beker is really nice. Yes, this is a strange way to start off a post about a woman who as the host of Fashion Television has been referred to as an icon, ground breaker, pioneer and everything in between in Canadian fashion. We at Real Style have written about her before and we are big fans. But nevermind how often one meets her, her enthusiasm for her profession, her candor and friendly manner are always a pleasant surprise.
We caught up with Jeanne just before her EDIT holiday collection party at The Bay downtown. We were supposed to be talking about EDIT- but since talking to Jeanne is like talking to your really cool and stylish older sister- we also wanted to know everything about her style.
Real Style : You are looking fabulous and very svelte these days. What’s the secret? And what in the world are you doing with your hair, it is jealousy provoking shiny.
Jeanne Beker: I recently lost 18 pounds with Herbal Magic. (Laughing) …and 
I’m not their spokesperson. It’s all about eating healthy in the end. As to my hair, it’s Moroccan Oil and I’m not their spokesperson either. (Laughing)… boy you are giving me some good sponsorship ideas though. This is what my hairdresser uses and it really works for me. I’ve been going to the same guy to do my hair for many, many years and he knows what to do with it.
Real Style : Love what you are wearing, tell us about it and I adore your accessories. (Gator inspired belt, statement ring and Tiffany silver bracelet)
Jeanne Beker: Well I’m wearing the little black dress from the EDIT line of course. LBD is an essential piece that should be in everyone’s closet. The accessories are mine though. I have had this belt for over 20 years and I never get tired of it, it’s very unique.
Real Style: Lots of buzz this season about gold jewelry. Do you think silver accessories are on the way out and gold is in?
Jeanne Beker: No, I don’t personally. I love silver, it’s here to stay and I like bold accessories. Some people think that gold jewelry is warmer on the skin. It’s really a personal choice.
Real Style: The Bay did a really nice job with the EDIT display. Love the sequin pieces and the red coat. What are your favorite pieces in the EDIT holiday line?
Jeanne Beker: I love this sequin vest. You can throw it on and it’s instant glam. You can wear it with this (takes chiffon gray print draw sting tunic and puts the vest over it) and it makes for a great look. Or you can put a camisole under the top and wear it as well. You know I don’t like to call EDIT a collection. It’s not a ‘fashion’ collection per se, EDIT is about wearable and stylish clothing for busy women. All the pieces are meant to be complementary and easy and affordable.
Real Style: Susan (the fab PR lady) is looking anxious because others are waiting to speak to you and we have to wrap up. So one last question, what do you contribute to your success and longevity in the fashion industry?
Jeanne Beker: I’m a survivor and I never give up!
In other very exciting news, Real Style Network has asked Jeanne Beker to guest edit for us and she has agreed. So watch this space.
Tags: EDIT Holiday line, editor feature, Interview With Jeanne Beker, jeanne beker, Jeanne Beker at The Bay, Jeanne Beker bio, jeanne beker fashion, jeanne beker fashion television network, Jeanne Beker weight loss, jeanne beker's accessories, Jeanne Beker's fashion line EDIT, Jeanne Beker's hair
I love Jeanne, she is my favorite fashion celeb by far!
I checked out the clothes, they are ok, the sequin vest is really cute. It’s nothing really special, just that they put all the pieces together and make it easy to pull whole outfits. In any case good for Jeanne, I have watched her for years on FT.
Ihave met Jeannie a few times and I have to agree, she is one of the nicest people I have ever met. She is a celeb but does not act like it, she is very approachable. I checked out the EDIT line and I like that there are so many pieces, I found a great vest and pants that I can mix and match with things I already own.
I’ve been watching Jeanne Beker since I was nine years old! She’s the reason I want a career in fashion journalism!