New York-based editor and stylist Sara Klausing discusses her evolution from Vogue market editor to multidisciplinary creative, emphasizing adaptability in fashion’s digital shift. Stressing storytelling through both words and wardrobe, she underscores the industry’s demand for versatility, video-first content, and unfiltered authenticity.
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Let’s start with an intro—who are you and what do you do?
Sara Klausing: Hi, I’m Sara Klausing. I’m an editor and a stylist in New York City.
What kind of work does that involve for you right now?
Sara Klausing: I started my career as a market editor at Vogue, then moved into partnerships at Google. Since then, like many creatives in New York, I do a lot of things. I write, I produce, I do market and styling editing, and I work in multimedia journalism.
Do you feel like being multifaceted is necessary to succeed in New York?
Sara Klausing: When I first started, I would’ve said no. I was focused on being an editor. But digital media was in a very different place back then. We had just launched vogue.com—there were only six of us on the team. Now, the way we consume media and fashion is completely different. Everyone’s on social, everyone’s watching video. You have to take on new skills to grow. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to work on forward-facing projects.
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Why is it important to develop new skills as a creative?
Sara Klausing: It’s really important to explore what interests you and how you can add value. Learning new skills is always going to be challenging. When I was at Vogue, I saw an opportunity to work with some of the biggest tech companies in the world. Working with Google and YouTube could be intimidating in a way that was different from Vogue, but I learned from incredibly smart people.
You also have to pay attention to where your industry is heading, and the role you want to play in that. For the past five or so years, I’ve been focusing on film and multimedia. It’s a completely new industry and skill set. I feel that it is absolutely necessary to learn about video, audio, costume design, production, editing, etc. for what I do.
It is humbling to make mistakes and grow in real time – especially when it seems like people are watching and expecting you to have it all figured out. Most people choose not to be uncomfortable. You have to decide that you’re willing to do the things and take the risks that most people won’t. For me, it is the only way to move forward. My approach has always been to ask questions and understand before setting the intention.
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Where did your interest in fashion begin?
Sara Klausing: Probably from my mom—she’s very stylish. A legend!
Where are you from?
Sara Klausing: I'm from a small town. What’s great about being from a small town is that you have big dreams. But I always knew I wanted to work in fashion and film, actually.
How do you approach collaboration?
Sara Klausing: What is our shared goal? What are our values? How are we getting there? Are we having a good time?
How does research apply to styling?
Sara Klausing: Styling is about people. Ninety-nine percent of it is about how someone feels. You can put someone in a fantastic look, but if they don’t feel good, it won’t work. It’s important to understand what makes them feel confident.
Do you struggle with knowing when a project is “done”?
Sara Klausing: Absolutely. I’m always looking for ways to make something better. That’s the editor in me. And imposter syndrome plays a role too—what we think is “okay” is often excellent to others. But knowing when to let go is hard.
How do you reflect on your work?
Sara Klausing: At the end of the day, it is work. But I don’t take for granted that I get to do what I love. It’s a privilege.
Can you talk about your perspective on style vs. fashion?
Sara Klausing: Style is what makes you feel like the best version of yourself. It’s about world-building—where that person is going. How they’re dressing for it. What music is playing. My personal goal is to look like a spy. There’s a lot of the Charlie’s Angels soundtrack in the background. Fashion can seem exclusive, but style is rooted in who you are. It’s how you see the world.
Do you ever wear things just because they’re trendy—even if they’re not “you”?
Sara Klausing: Dipping your toe in a trend can be fun, but it doesn’t always feel authentic. I love the idea of someone referring to your style as uniquely your own.
Do you ever feel torn between different parts of your career?
Sara Klausing: All the time. Working across fashion, tech, and film can feel different, but they all influence each other. I’m constantly learning from diverse individuals, and creating opportunities for myself and my community. My ethos has always been rooted in grace, being of service, and connecting dots that others may not see. At the end of the day, I have never regretted putting something into the world that reflects my values and point of view. Even if it’s not perfect, or you hear people say things. It’s the man in the arena. It’s a constant pivot. I have learned a lot of lessons the hard way. I’m incredibly proud of the foundation that I’ve built, the community I’m a part of, and the work that I’ve done. In some ways, we’re just getting started. I have always been playing the long game.
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