Television host, producer, and fashion expert, Melissa Rivers knows how to work it both behind and in front of the camera. From her career on the red carpet and her daily uniform to the upcoming launch of her clothing line with Zappos (and more), Melissa has lots to share–she even gives her own Style Solution for us to follow.
S: How did your career on the red carpet begin?
M: I started out as an intern at Entertainment Tonight while I was in college. From there, I got a job at MTV where I was on air. Then I went to CBS news, became a research assistant at Rescue 911, and then ended up at E! I basically did all of the jobs and worked my way up. The first time E! did the red carpet, it was with my mom. Then they asked me if I would be interested, and I was like well, I’d never been to the Academy Awards, so sure this sounds like fun!
S: Was there anyone who you hadn’t met before the red carpet who made you feel star struck?
M: Oh, tons of people. I spent a long time being very tongued-tied. It was usually the athletes that got to me, I mean I thought I was going to faint the first time I covered the Espys awards.
S: Who’s your favorite athlete?
M: That changes all the time, but I have to say I have an undying love for Peyton Manning.
S: What’s different and similar about you and your mom’s [Joan Rivers] personal style?
M: We both have a uniform, but my mom’s is black pants, a black top and a jacket, where mine is jeans and a white t-shirt.
S: What catches your eye on the red carpet?
M: It comes down to 2 things for me: proper fit, and that the person is wearing the dress, not that the dress is wearing the person.
S: If you could choose any designer to be affiliated with, who would it be?
M: I would have to fall somewhere between Victoria Beckham, whose style I absolutely covet, and Michael Kors–his style is so classic and all-American.
S: What’s your view on following trends?
M: I think you have to know what trends work for you. I always believe in hitting trends every year of some sort, but with a light touch. I’m really enjoying these super bright neon colors, but I’ve done it very carefully with some jewelry, shoes, and a bag.
S: What are you looking forward to while shooting Season 3 of Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best?
M: Well, they always provide a very delicious lunch– unfortunately for me it’s usually salad. But what I most look forward to is that I don’t just get to work with my mom, but with my son and my friends as well.
S: What’s a Style Solution that you can give to my readers?
M: I don’t care if you’re in a $10 dress, have it altered to fit you. The proper fit makes a $10 dress look like a $10,000 dress.
S: What’s up and coming for you?
M: On June 8, I’m launching the first celebrity capsule collection for The Cool People on Zappos.com. It’s called Melissa Rivers for The Cool People. I’m really excited about it; it’s all wearable clothes that can transition from day to night to weekend. I’ve been wearing everything since I got my shipment. I think if you’re going to do something, and that’s where Victoria Beckham is genius, you wear it. If you don’t love it enough to wear it yourself, why would anyone else want it?
S: Lastly, does Joan really know best?
M: In her mind.
