If you've ever wanted to know what it's like to work at NYLON, you're in luck. I chatted with Jenna Igneri, the magazine's Assistant Digital Editor, about all aspects of her super cool job. Here, she takes a moment from writing breaking stories on beauty and fashion happenings, to share how she broke into the industry, what makes her thrive, and practical advice for those aspiring to leave their mark on the editorial world. 

What are you waiting for? Let's get to know the awesome editor behind our favorite cutting edge product launches stories, experiential pieces, and fashion guides!

Q&A

Can you tell us a bit about your background? I moved to New York back when I was 18 to attend LIM College, where I studied Fashion Marketing. While in school, I went on to intern for a couple of different magazines and websites, and landed at Allure as the fashion assistant after I graduated. I was at Allure for a few years before making the jump into digital (and writing, and beauty) here at NYLON.

What was your "gold lining" that lead you down this career path? It’s pretty funny how it all came full circle, but my first editorial internship was at NYLON, and while I was here I was like This is it, you’re going to work for a magazine after you graduate—and somehow I ended up back here.

What does a typical day look like for you? It really varies from day to day, but for the most part, I wake up and either meditate for 20 minutes or have a quick session at the gym (if I can manage to wake up early enough). Then, I’ll usually have a fashion or beauty preview or two to attend before I come into the office. Once I’m in, I’ll usually get started on my first news post of the day, and then continue to work on any features I have coming up that week. A lot of the time, I’ll have a dinner or an event to attend after work, so I’ll either step out early or work ahead on stuff until its time for me to leave. NYLON is also really fun, so couple of times a month there will be in-office happy hours after 5.

We're all curious. What does an inbox of a digital editor at Nylon look like? A LOT of e-mails. Like, way too many of them.

What is your creative process like when writing a story? What inspires you? I’m really interested in weird or unexpected trends. Whether it’s writing about beauty products with really unexpected ingredients (crystal-infused highlighters or weed-infused face lotion) or those really weird detachable pants that the internet freaked out over, I get really excited over things that you might not necessarily expect. A lot of times, I try to seek these out before it really catches on.

What has been the most exciting moment in your career to date? All of the travel opportunities I’ve gotten, from going to Stockholm to interview the founders of Happy Socks to partying on the same block as Pitbull and DJ Khalid with Urban Decay.

How has the editorial space changed since you first entered? It’s changed so much. I feel like I came in at such a crazy time. Everything is moving towards digital, with so many print publications folding or merging with others. Though I started in print—and was always super passionate about collecting the giant, independent fashion mags you’d find at magazine shops in the West Village—digital is the future, and I feel like I made the right decision hopping over to this side when I did.

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you build yourself back up? I definitely get down on myself from time to time, as we all do. I try to remind myself of all that I’ve accomplished and remember how competitive the field is—and that I clearly had to have what it takes to get to where I’m at now.

What quotation or saying inspires you and motivates you to be yourself and do what you love? “Be you, unapologetically”

What characteristics do you admire most in creative women and men? I really admire those that just don’t ever give up and push themselves. People fail. People land at really awful, stressful jobs. But somehow, despite what ever shit they have to deal with, they’ll get through it and push on. Next thing you know, they’re running their own companies.

What’s your best advice for all those people aspiring to follow in your footsteps? Networking is so important, you never know when someone you met at an event or a past job will be a help to you in the future. With that being said, if you’re still in school, intern as much as you can.

Any beauty/fashion trends that we should be on the look out for? I’m really hoping this whole ‘80s blush bomb really takes on—I’m pretty over highlighter. Also, this fall, I plan to live in the “shkirt.”  

Fun Facts 

What's your zodiac sign? Gemini

Recent discovery? Champagne snow cones

What is your philosophy on self-care? What would you say is your number one self-care tip? Self-care is SO important, and I do my best to do something good for myself every day, whether it’s meditating when I wake up or having a full-on at home spa moment in the evening. My favorite thing to do when I have time is take a loooong, hot bath with Himalayan  pink sea salt and essential oils. The salt is detoxing, and I’ll pick my combination of oils based on my mood.

What are some of your go to spots in NYC? I live in Bushwick and never leave it on the weekends. Alphaville, Birdy’s, and Three Diamond Door are all fun spots to check out.

Want to learn more about Jenna? Follow her journey at @jennaroseigneri!

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Main Image Credit: Lauren Perlstein