Hannah Ruth Zander, a stylist, digital content creator, and writer, is based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and she graduated from Salt Lake Fashion Institute with a degree in Design and Merchandising and an emphasis on the history of costume. Hannah focuses on sustainability and inclusivity in her styling and content, creating many vintage looks. She provides different types of styling including editorial, brand partnerships, bridal, and design. She has amassed over 31k followers and over 551k likes on TikTok, and she has 37.6k followers on Instagram.

What got you interested in fashion?
I became interested in fashion during my freshman year in high school when my grandmother gifted me her clothing from the 1960s. I was fascinated by the well-made nature, the poofiness and frills, and the bright colors. It was the complete opposite of the Hollister and Abercrombie trends of the time. It was then that I began researching vintage fashion, style icons of the 60s, and vintage boutiques nearby. My love of fashion began with vintage. It transcended into all things Teen Vogue, Man Repeller, and Alexa Chung’s YouTube channel. I fell in love with mixing vintage pieces into modern trends. Getting dressed everyday became my favorite activity.

If you had to describe your style in 3 words what would they be?
Youthful, feminine, and romantic.

What drew you to the TikTok platform?
I was drawn to TikTok when I came across the slow fashion community. Seeing other people interested in fashion and sharing their favorite ways to re-wear, small businesses to shop, and creative ways to upcycle your clothing inspired me to add my own voice to the conversation. It’s so important to take care of your closet and re-wear without shame, I just want to be a part of that and hopefully show others that it's okay.

What are some challenges with being on TikTok?
Consistency. When you have a full-time job and a few side hustles, it’s hard to find the time to create consistent video content, which is almost crucial to gaining a following. I definitely don’t post as much as I’d like to, but I’m happy to be on for the small fraction that I am and to support other small creators.

What are some of your staple pieces?
My favorite staple pieces are my white Mary Janes, vintage varsity sweater, and OVERALLS.

What are your go-to accessories?
My go-to accessories are pearl drop earrings, a black velvet hair bow, and a basket purse. It’s rare to see me without them.

Who do you look to for fashion inspiration?
My grandmother, Barbara Streisand, Sandy Liang, Tanner Fletcher, Vivetta, and Miu Miu.

Are there any decades you prefer?
I love 40s and 60s fashion the most.

Do you have any tips for shopping vintage?
ETSY! My forever holy grail. I always get the best deals there. My favorite keywords to search are vintage collared dress, 60s mod, and 40s playsuits.

What is your favorite color to style?
Pink and green. It’s forever my favorite combo. I love how youthful and 60s it feels.

What season is your favorite to dress for?
SUMMER! I am a summer forever girl. If I’m not wearing a swimsuit, I love wearing little bloomers, vintage playsuits, and cotton mini dresses.

How has fashion impacted your life?
Fashion has given me purpose. Not only is it my creative outlet, but it’s my living. I’m able to do what I love everyday while supporting my family. I get to experience new things, meet new people, and be inspired by others in the industry. There is no better feeling than being inspired.

Has your personal style evolved while you have been on social media? If so, how?
Definitely! I think with the rise of maximalism and weird-girl-core, I’ve taken more risks with my daily attire. This trend has been a reminder that there are truly no rules to fashion and the more, the better.

How do you balance being a stylist, a content creator, and a writer?
I blame it on my zodiac sign (I’m a Gemini). While it’s been hard limiting myself to one creative outlet, I consistently keep up with these hobbies by working when inspiration strikes. I’ll never force myself to make a reel or write a newsletter just because I should. That being said, I also have a full-time job as a social media director for a local company here in Salt Lake City, so I have the luxury of waiting for inspiration but there is stress in balancing all of these things.

What are some challenges you have experienced as a stylist?
Pleasing everyone. As a people pleaser, it’s hard always to stick to your vision all of the time, if you sense dislike or unenthusiastic responses from your co-workers. I definitely have to keep a confident mindset whenever I’m on set, which isn’t a sure proof thing, but I try.

Other than fashion, do you have any other interests?
I have two dachshunds that I’m absolutely in love with. I spend most of my time taking care of them. I also love watching movie analyses about the costumes and plot. I try to see the local Broadway plays when I can. I’m a lover of musicals.

What is the hardest part of being a digital content creator?
Other than consistency, having tough skin. Seeing negative comments is never fun, especially when you’re just being yourself.

Social Media.
Instagram, TikTok, and Patreon: @hannahruthzander

Interview by Tanweer Sheth, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Alexa Dyer, Graphic Design Coordinator, PhotoBook Magazine
*All photos courtesy of Hannah Ruth Zander