Lupita Nyong'o's stylist explains the process of creating the outfits for The Odyssey press tour.

      Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast. Consider it your direct connection to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers who are influencing the world of fashion and beauty. You can subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

      Analyzing the Fashion of The Odyssey Press Tour | Who What Wear Podcast - YouTube

      Watch On

      Micaela Erlanger always had an intrinsic desire to be a stylist. "I think I always knew I wanted to be in a creative field, and at my core, I always understood that I wanted to be a stylist, though I wasn't aware that the profession of styling existed back then," Erlanger explained. She began her career on the editorial side at publications like Harper's Bazaar before making the jump into styling. In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Erlanger discusses her transition, her experience working with Lupita Nyong'o during The Odyssey's press tour, and more. To read highlights from the interview, scroll down.

      Could you provide our audience with a brief background on how you initially got into fashion and styling?

      I think I always knew I wanted to be in a creative field, and deep down, I knew I wanted to be a stylist, but I wasn't aware that the styling world existed. During college, through a series of internships, I uncovered the world of editorial. I started as an intern at various publications. I participated in the Condé Nast summer intern program and later worked at Hearst for several magazines. I learned a lot there, interning in the fashion closet and eventually freelancing as a fashion assistant for fashion directors at Harper's, Cosmo, and others. That’s where I really developed my skills in styling.

      Later, I met my mentor Annabel Tollman, with whom I worked for over six years. At that time, she was a pioneering figure in celebrity styling. I gained immense knowledge from her, which set me on my path.

      One of the highlights for me has been observing your relationship with Lupita Nyong'o, dating back to her campaign that led to her Oscar win for 12 Years a Slave in 2014, particularly that stunning powder-blue Prada gown. Now, twelve years later, you're on another press tour with her for The Odyssey. She, like many of your clients, has a long-standing relationship with you. I’d love to hear about how your relationship has evolved and the styling decisions you make together.

      I’m truly thankful for this relationship and feel fortunate to consider my client a close friend. Our partnership is built on a foundation of deep trust and mutual respect.

      That first year was extraordinary for many reasons. Not only did her talent earn her an Academy Award, but the choices we made highlighted the significance of image and how the red carpet can elevate someone's profile… illustrating why it’s crucial to be intentional and strategic about dress selection. After that initial year, we really found our rhythm. Fast forward to now, it’s been 12 years, which is hard to believe. We’re currently on this new, significant press tour with an incredible cast, and we've really gotten to be creative.

      (Image credit: Getty Images)

      Tell me about the very first look on the first press day. How did you settle on that look to kick things off?

      That look was actually custom-made and something I had been holding onto for quite a while. It was designed by Sally LaPointe. Initially, I wasn’t sure where it would fit into the tour. Often, when I see a piece, I just know it’s the right look, even if I don’t yet know the venue it’s intended for. It’s an incredible feeling when everything aligns perfectly, and this was the ideal outfit to start the tour. I believe the first outfit that gets photographed sets the tone and narrative for the visual story you want to convey, and I loved everything about this look.

      (Image credit: Getty Images)

      I also want to discuss Nyong'o’s look for the New York premiere, including the bag. What went into the thought process for New York, and what was your strategy?

      When we tried on that gown, it was stunning. I had previously collaborated with Nicholas Oakwell when he first launched his couture line, and I’m thrilled to see him back creating such exquisite designs. The inspiration behind the dress was actually mentioned in the lookbook and tied back to mythology and storytelling, which felt serendipitous. However, you can't fully assess a piece until it's in the studio, fitted, and tried on to see how it looks.

      (Image credit: Getty Images)

      This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.