Get to know: JANE SCHREIBER, REFINERY 52
CC Muses: In Greek mythology, the muses were Zeus’ daughters and the goddesses of the arts, sciences, and literature. Today, in fashion and beyond, a muse is a source of inspiration. Next up in our “Consign Couture Muses” series we are pleased to hear from Jane Schreiber, who in addition to being our in-house Stylist, is the founder/owner of Refinery 52.
If you’ve been into the shop, you’ve probably met Jane, our stylist and secret weapon who brings her expertise to Consign Couture after over 30 years working in the fashion industry. From co-founding and running a modeling agency, to owning and editing a fashion magazine published exclusively for South Africa Fashion Week, she knows the ins-and-outs of the fashion industry and the power of the clothes we wear.
As a stylist, Jane studies and understands the theory and psychology of fashion and the role our clothes can play in self-expression, building confidence, and beyond. The best part? She is a secondhand shopping devotee who is always on the hunt for pre-loved treasures and knows you can build a great outfits with the pieces already in your closet!
We would forgive you if, between chatting about cool new arrivals and being charmed by her South African accent, you did not know that Jane offers personal styling services through the shop, and wardrobe refinement/styling (or total overhaul!) through her new venture, Refinery 52. If you are interested in learning more, we encourage you to get your feet wet by attending one of our informal “Style Class” sessions, led by Jane and held monthly in the shop. Save your spot for the class on July 18, 2024 here.
We are excited to share her responses to our “get to know you” questions below.
What’s your name and what do you do in life? Tell us about yourself, and about Refinery 52!
Hi, I’m Jane. The best way I can describe myself is as a low-maintenance fashion stylist! I get tremendous satisfaction watching the joy people experience when what they are wearing represents who they feel they are on the inside. And this is really why I started Refinery 52. Clothes can have such an emotional impact in our lives that to help people navigate their wardrobe and style is so fulfilling. My aim is also to teach people to ‘shop their wardrobe’ before going out to buy new clothes.
We love that! Why “Refinery”?
I chose the name Refinery 52 because I was 52 at the time and “Refinery” because I believe that most people intuitively know their style they just need a slight bit of ‘refinement’ in their wardrobe to discover it.
Tell us about a milestone in your business or something that you’re especially proud of.
Owning your own business, regardless of the size, allows you to explore your creativity (and patience) in ways you never thought possible. The most important lesson or advice I can pass on to anyone considering starting their own business is ‘just to start’ The smallest step forward is just that – forward and once youve begun the momentum takes over.
What inspires you? Where do you look for inspiration?
People inspire me, I look at how everyone dresses. It might not be my style, but I get so much inspiration from the way that people put outfits together. I can immediately tell when someone loves what they are wearing, there’s definitely an inner confidence that shines through.
What keeps you going on tough days?
The people around me keep me going on tough days. I love my work family, We laugh so much at work and having people that believe in you is such a gift.
Do you have a secondhand shopping tip to share?
I love love shopping secondhand! Nothing beats the thrill and excitement of finding that special piece. My husband has to convince me to do something other than going consignment shopping on the weekends.
Being exposed to so many different styles and brand in one place really allows you to explore and grow your style.
My best secondhand shopping tip is to try on as many different things as you can. Don’t stick to your preconceived idea of what you think looks good on you or what you think your size is. Sometimes sizing up or down changes the whole look of an outfit.
Tell us about your favorite outfit. What makes you feel your best, or the most “you”?
I am so happy wide leg pants* have come back into fashion, I’ve always loved them and that combined with the oversized cut really epitomizes my style and way of dressing. I don’t like feeling too put together or too coordinated, there always has to be something not quite right with my outfit, whether its an unexpected shoe or a weird t-shirt!
*See Jane’s tips for styling wide leg pants on Instagram here!
Do you think about how to incorporate environmental sustainability into your business or practice?
As much as I love fashion, I hate the impact that fast fashion has on the planet. Encouraging the people I work with to get to know their style and shopping their wardrobes will help drastically reduce the amount of new clothes we think we need.
Who are your three favorite designers or brands right now?
I love Tibi (Amy Smilovic), Khaite & Phoebe Philo.
Three things you’ve loved lately?
1) Room by Emma Donaghue is one of those books, that besides being succinctly and beautifully written really never leaves you. I found the story incredibly inspiring and upsetting all at the same time.
2) I thoroughly enjoyed ’Succession’ loved the characters and the writing.
3) Le Chon is my favorite restaurant, maybe I’m biased because the chef is South African. You have to try the banoffee pie!
Find Jane & Refinery 52 on Instagram here.
