Celebrities for a Day at Fred Segal

by Sonja Uwimana
Contributing Writer

"I think I've found my calling." These were the words pronounced by Allison McKee ('03), one of the participants of Pomona's Career Development Office's (CDO) Real World Trip to Fred Segal's on Friday. And she wasn't the only one. At the end of the day, those of us who attended the trip felt like we had seen Heaven, and there was no way we were going back.

The day began with an introduction from Michael Segal, a Pomona alum who just happens to be Fred's son. We were then treated to a delicious lunch consisting of vegetable wraps, bruschetta salad, and homemade chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven. We were also given a chance to speak with several of the top employees of the company, including Mr. Segal, Jr., their attorney and their financial advisor. Amid all this formality though, there was only one thing on our minds: when do we get to start shopping?!

Lauren Shawn ('01) prepares to get the star treatment. Courtesy photo

For those of you who don't know who or what Fred Segal is, here's a quick introduction. Fred Segal's is a collection of boutiques (a virtual mini-mall) which has been around for forty years, and has grown to be a popular celebrity hangout. There are two branches; the original is on Melrose Avenue, while the one we visited is in Santa Monica. Upon entering the store, we were literally hit with name brands, which, for some, seemed to be calling their names. There was Lucky Brand Dungarees here, Roxy there, Triple Five Soul in the back and a host of other hip and trendy clothes for our viewing pleasure. Because, alas, we missed the semi-annual sale and when it came to choosing between that $99 skirt and a plane ticket to go home, well… you know what I mean.

Although for some, like Lauren Shawn ('01) who came armed with her father's credit card, it was quite different. "I called my mom and asked her if I could have my Hanukah presents early," she said, her brand new outfit in hand. Others were so lucky as to receive free makeovers from the makeup experts on hand. Those with an interest in the industry also got the chance to speak to several of the buyers in the store. The most popular section of the store was the "Make-Your Own Jewelry" section, which also proved to be the most affordable. Yes, I was able to walk away with a little something for under $15! Even the lone boy on the trip indulged himself in this section.

By the time our departure time had rolled around, we literally had to tear ourselves away. All in all, although I did not bump into Freddy Prinze, Jr., it was an incredible experience which I will not forget soon.