Devon Poer has been on our radar since Fashion Camp LA. We were happy to catch up with Devon Poer, stylist, fashion journalist and founder of  The Couture House and The Stylist Handbook, to learn more about her fashionable ventures.

The Couture House is reminiscent of the days when the big names in fashion (think Chanel and Dior) dreamed, created and marketed fashion under one roof.  Couture House LA adds a modern twist to the method by offering resources and solutions for the fashion community in one place.

The Stylist Handbook sprung from the concept of The Couture House.  This unique quarterly e-magazine offers rich content to the fashion community.  With the same helpful spirit as The Couture House, this publication is free.

Krista Peck: What is the best part about running The Couture House?

Devon Poer: The best part about running The Couture House is the experience, meeting new people, the fashion, the style and constant excitement.  Getting into events and fashion shows is one of my favorite parts, but being exposed to new talent is very fulfilling.

KP: What are your hopes for The Couture House in the future?

DP: My hope for The Couture House is to turn the site into an industry resource for local fashion communities, starting with Los Angeles.

The LA fashion industry is bigger than we get credit for and we have a lot happening here.  We’re not all tee shirts and board shorts like people assume.  The fashion district is number 1 on the west coast for manufacturing, and that should say something.

My goal for The Couture House is to provide a platform for the fashion community, hopefully to bring us together and provide a place with honest reports and resources for the LA fashion scene.

We are happy to share this interview, which is full of Poer’s passion for the fashion industry, with you.

KP: What inspired you to launch The Stylist Handbook?

DP: I love the magazine world, but also see how it is evolving.   I wanted to start a magazine about the two things I’m most passionate about:   fashion styling and fashion journalism.  I view styling as an art form, and combined with journalism, a huge responsibility due to the media influence it has over people.  I also wanted to provide my fellow stylists and aspiring stylists with a resource and support, while helping myself become a better stylist, as well.

KP: Who is your target audience?

DP: My target audience consists of women and men from 18 to 55–the x and y generations– working in the fashion, beauty and style industries, or working towards it.  I’m an educator at heart, so young minds are always an influence in my actions.

KP: Do you feel that the niche you are hoping to fill is under served?  Why?

DP: Definitely, or I wouldn’t be doing it.  I like coming up with new creative ideas.  It is something I specialize in and enjoy.  And, really, the true heart of fashion is originality:  expressing yourself regardless of what others think.  There will always be lovers and haters; it is just a fact of life. I started the magazine for the community, my friends, and so I can do what I love!