Photography by Hunter Berry
After a scroll through @cassandra on Instagram, it becomes clear that the first-name-only profile speaks for itself. Snapshots of clients like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Ryan Reynolds and country crooners Lady Antebellum fill the 27-year-old’s feed, and this is just the beginning for the Iowa native. Cassandra Dittmer put in four years as celebrity stylist Ilaria Urbinati’s first assistant and is now styling solo, with an emphasis on brand awareness in a highly transparent fashion industry.
What do you enjoy most about your work as a stylist?
Award shows! Mostly I do prep work leading up to events, so the day of is just fun. It’s rewarding to be part of something bigger and to make people feel confident and beautiful. When I was with Ilaria, I spent a lot of time traveling with Lady Antebellum and realized I loved travel almost as much as styling. Now I do event-based work, which lets me do both.
How has your personal style evolved since you graduated from Iowa State University?
My style has always been eccentric but now is less futsy because it’s not about me — it’s about the client. I try to strike a balance of showing solid brand awareness with what I wear, but really I’m there to help someone else find their style. It’s an intimate business in that way.
How has social media changed the fashion landscape?
It’s crazy to think that Instagram didn’t exist when I was first starting out. I remember looking for an internship in Los Angeles the summer between my junior and senior years of college. My dad came with me, and we spent a weekend driving around and literally knocking on doors.
Today, nearly all of my work comes through Instagram. The transparency that social media brings is something I think about a lot. People wear what I say, so I feel a responsibility to support brands that don’t just do well, but also do good. Sustainable materials, ethical sourcing and American-made products have become increasingly important to me.
How do you stay healthy with such a hectic schedule?
I focus on what I can control, like working out and using good skincare products. Even when I land in a city at a weird time (like 3 a.m. in Beijing), I go to the gym. It always helps me acclimate. Some of my skincare favorites include First Aid Beauty 5 in 1 Eye Cream, Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask and Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil.
What’s your go-to accessory?
A jean jacket. I’m always looking for a quick piece that elevates a look, and nothing does that better than a cool, embellished jacket. It’s that one piece that can take me to a different place.
What winter trends have you most excited?
Slouchy bags, tailored pants, fun and embellished loafers, and mixing plaids and florals. Fashion changes quickly, though, so I’m sure I’ll be excited about something totally different in a few weeks.
