S1, Ep3 – In conversation with Sarah Harris
24 March 2022
As the European Deputy Editor and Global Network Lead for British Vogue Sarah Harris needs no introduction. With nearly two decades worth of experience within the fashion industry and magazine world, Dr Reena discusses how it all began, the onset of consumerism and digitalisation and the changes of the media industry with the demand for instant access.
Sarah takes us behind the scenes for a typical ‘Day in the Life’, recommending her go-to investment survival pieces for professionals with a demanding lifestyle, and what she always needs to have on her desk when working. As a favourite with street style photographers for her minimalistic and effortless style we learn her personal inspirations and if there is anything she would do differently a second time around.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Hardly needing an introduction as one of the most celebrated and highly regarded figures in the fashion industry, Sarah Harris brings over two decades of experience. Dr Reena welcomed Sarah back to Harley Street, kicking off their conversation by reflecting on how dramatically the media and magazine industry has evolved in recent years, especially with the rise of digitalisation and the demand for instant access. Sarah noted, “It’s crazy how much the industry has changed,” adding that when she first started, websites weren’t even a thing.
With social media now the fastest and most immediate form of communication, the role of working in fashion media has expanded far beyond print. Sarah explained how her team constantly adapts content for a 360-degree approach across platforms—magazines, social media, videos, and more. She highlighted that this shift has made the industry more inclusive, offering behind-the-scenes access to editors and creatives.
Sarah’s passion for fashion began early. Growing up in Winchester, Hampshire, with no family ties to the industry, she loved clothes from a young age. As a child, she would cut out magazine pages, create layouts, and write stories, always dreaming of a career in fashion media.
Working alongside inspiring editors such as Alexandra Shulman and Edward Enninful has been a major highlight of her career. She described many “pinch me” moments, from attending iconic fashion shows to collaborating with incredible talent. Sarah also noted how the scope of her work has changed enormously over time.
When asked about her go-to investment pieces for a polished look, Sarah emphasised simplicity and versatility. Her fail-safe items include effortless separates like tracksuits, cashmere, or a tailored suit. She highlighted that investment dressing not only elevates style but also supports sustainability by reducing waste—an issue now at the forefront of fashion and consumer awareness.
Sarah shared a story from the start of her career: fresh out of London College of Fashion with a first in Fashion Journalism, she interviewed for a fashion assistant role where she would mainly handle returns. The interviewer was concerned her journalistic skills wouldn’t be used, so she didn’t get the job. Instead, she worked at WWD before landing a fashion features writer position at Vogue two years later.
The conversation also touched on the importance of maintaining integrity in one’s career. Sarah agreed with Dr Reena that it’s essential never to compromise on core values.
When asked for advice for newcomers to the industry, Sarah acknowledged that it’s easier now to showcase talent across multiple platforms like Instagram or blogs, and the path she had to take was different: getting her foot in the door through the more traditional route then enabled her to work her way up to the roles that marked her name in the industry.
Nowadays, Sarah’s days vary. She splits her time between the office and working from home, balancing planning meetings with managing PRs and setting up stories months in advance. During the podcast recording, it was fashion month, just after London Fashion Week and on the cusp of Milan and Paris shows.
Before heading back to the office, Sarah shared the essentials she always keeps close: laptop, phone, coffee—and, as a must-have, lip balm and hair ties.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Know what you want to do from as young an age as possible. This helps guide you toward actions that will actually help you achieve your goals.
When building a wardrobe, buy less but buy better. Be very specific about the pieces you choose, focusing on the cut and quality of fabrics.
Sarah Harris rarely wears colour, preferring simple shapes and silhouettes. With a neutral wardrobe, everything goes with everything.
Planning is key, especially when travelling. Always plan each day carefully, especially when packing—only take what you know you will wear and need.
Believe that everything happens for a reason. When you look back, everything is meant to be.
Stay true to yourself and always be authentic. Be very careful about compromising on what you truly stand for.
There are many ways to enter the fashion industry now, with plenty of platforms like social media to showcase your work. Don’t underestimate the importance of self-curation.
You might also like
Previous episodes
S5, Ep2 – In conversation with Jo Ellison
Welcoming you back to our fifth season of Life & Smile. In this episode, Dr Reena is joined by Jo Ellison – as Deputy Editor of Financial Times Weekend and the Editor of FT How to Spend It, Jo is widely renowned as one of the most prominent figures in the world of media and magazines.
S2, Ep5 – In conversation with Daniel Norcross
Famously described as “the most interesting commentator of the new generation” and renowned for often placing an unusual perspective into the commentary box, in this episode of Life & Smile we welcome to 75 Harley Street a household name in broadcasting.
