Happy Valentine’s Day, friends! Today is a day filled with all things love and lust. A day to get cozy, be intimate, feel pretty, be you.
What better way to celebrate this day of love and beauty than to talk about bras? Those delicate little things that we wear under our clothes, and the ones that are starting to peek out in a playful way as spring approaches.
Our new trend, “The Big Reveal,” is all about wearing tops that are just a bit more revealing than usual with sexy, strapped underwear to show them off. Let your hair down a bit more this spring—we can’t stop talking about it at our home office. To find out more about this trend, I asked Megan, our amazing in-house bra designer, who knows a little bit more about them than most people.
Megan, what do you do at Free People? How long have you been here? Do you have a typical day?
I’ve been designing bras and underwear for Intimately FP for almost two years now. In 2007, I moved from New York to Philadelphia to design intimates for Urban Outfitters. I’ve also worked as an in-store designer for Anthropologie. I’ve always loved lacey boudoir and pretty things, and I studied intimate apparel design at the Fashion Institute of Technology. On a normal day, I sketch and sew with my fellow Intimately FP slips designers in the room with the most lace windows. Every day is different and fun here! Each season has its own vibe, and it’s fun to get caught up in those feelings and make art that you can wear and use.
I’m dying to know about your design process. Where do you start? How long does it take? How many people have to work together to make a magic piece?
These are great questions. I begin with an idea, which can come from anywhere. Next, I draw or sew up my idea. I sketch it more than once, making small changes each time, until I get it right. Sometimes it looks good on paper right away. To really make bra and underwear magic, a lot of people need to work together at our home office on each style. There are teams that do design, buying, sourcing, production, technical design, color and print, and packaging. Then there are our vendors, who make the clothes, dye the fabric and trims, draw the patterns, and sew them together. It’s definitely a group effort, and we have an amazing team of very passionate and talented people.
Sometimes you have an idea for a garment out of the blue and decide, “I have to make this come to life!”
Yes, I always carry a small notebook and pencil with me because I get ideas all the time. Or I might see an, a movie scene, or a great outfit on the street that makes me want to make something. For instance, the dress form I often walk around FP with is called Penny Lane, after a bra top that was based on all the crop tops Kate Hudson’s character wore in the movie Almost Famous. Also, we make bras for specific events and girls. For example, you can wear a sparkly, sexy, showstopper bra out or to a party, or you can wear a cozy, soft, romantic lace bra under your favorite pajamas on the weekend. I also find bits of fabric, lace, vintage garments, patterns, and photos very inspiring.
What is this strappy, sexy trend that everyone is crazy about? How did it start? What did it get its inspiration from?
There isn’t a clear moment when we fell in love with the sexy feeling. Like fashion in general, intimate clothing goes through cycles and trends, though they happen more slowly than other clothing. Part of the idea came from swimwear—the smooth fabrics and straight lines felt right and new again. Our FP girl loves truly special pieces that decorate and accentuate her unique personality and style.
What are some of the different ways that you’ve incorporated this awesome strappiness into your designs?
Designing into this trend has been an incredible amount of fun. I usually start designing a bra from the front, but for some styles with more straps, I started from the back or side. I use my dress form to try out different elastics, hardware, and materials until I get a look I like.
Do you think this trend looks better on girls with smaller or larger chests, or can anyone pull it off?
I think it depends on the bra and the shape or style that feels best on you. But if the bra fits, go for it! Anyone can pull off this look and feel great all day. We have a lot of new styles in bralettes, soft bras, and underwire bras that are coming out soon. We really do have something for every FP girl, whether you want to show off beautiful backstrap patterns under an open back dress, a great side detail with a low armhole tank, or even front strapping and neckline details to peek out of necklines or under sheer fabrics.
Do you think this trend will last for a long time? Where do you think it will go in the next few seasons?
I feel this look will definitely live on, but in many incarnations. For someone who has loved bras all her life, it’s been exciting to see so many beautiful, almost jewelry-like pieces from many designers come out recently. I think people like this style because it makes them feel strong and beautiful and shows off their bodies in new and interesting ways. This look already seems to be branching into new levels of sheerness, sculptural shapes, and cutouts as well. Both stunning for outfitting… and on their own, of course ;).
– I have the first piece of lace that got me interested in sewing. My mom had it in her sewing box when I was a kid. I would often take it out to look at it or feel how soft and delicate it was. It was so pretty that I didn’t want to cut it and throw it away. Now it hangs on the wall of my home studio.
Thanks so much for talking to us, Megan! Keep doing the beautiful work you do! 🙂
Free People is a very popular women’s clothing brand known for its bohemian-chic and vintage-inspired clothes. It can be hard to get hired there. Free People is looking for people who are stylish, artistic, and brave because of its laid-back vibe and focus on creativity.
If you have an interview coming up at Free People, it is crucial to prepare by researching their culture, business, products, and common interview questions In this comprehensive guide, I will provide an insider’s look at Free People’s hiring process and share the top 15 interview questions they are likely to ask candidates for retail sales associate, stylist, visual merchandiser and other in-store roles
Whether you are interviewing for an entry-level part-time position or a full-time managerial role. these tips and sample responses will help you stand out and land your dream job at Free People!
Overview of Free People’s Hiring Process
The hiring process at Free People typically involves the following steps:
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Online application – All candidates complete an online application which includes submitting a resume. This is screened by recruiters.
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In-person interview – Shortlisted candidates are invited for a one-on-one interview at a local store. For corporate roles, the first interview may be over Zoom.
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Follow-up interview: For some jobs, there may be a second or third interview with the store manager or other team members.
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Reference checks – References are contacted to verify candidate’s qualifications and fit.
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Job offer – Selected applicants receive a formal job offer if cleared by the HR department.
The interview is a crucial step, so thorough preparation is key. Let’s look at some of the most frequently asked interview questions at Free People and advice on how to best address them.
15 Common Free People Interview Questions and Answers
1. How would you describe your personal style?
This is commonly the very first question since Free People wants to gauge if you’ll be a good brand fit. They look for someone who understands and embodies their boho-chic aesthetic.
Sample Answer: My personal style is very inspired by the Free People aesthetic. I love wearing feminine silhouettes like maxi dresses and rompers, paired with vintage-inspired jewelry. A mix of textures, prints, and colors is my go-to for creating boho-chic outfits. I also enjoy trying new trends but always incorporate my signature bohemian vibe into my looks. Comfort is as important to me as style, so I gravitate towards soft, lightweight fabrics too. Overall, my wardrobe is reflective of the laidback and artistic aesthetic that Free People is so well-known for.
2. What do you know about our company and products?
This question tests your knowledge of the brand as well as your passion for what they do. Be sure to mention their product range, brand ethos and history.
Sample Answer: I’m a huge fan of Free People because the brand embodies free-spirited style and self-expression, values that really resonate with me. Since its start in the 1970s, Free People has been committed to creating unique, quality clothing and inspiring creativity through fashion. The product range has something for every aspect of a boho-chic lifestyle – from dresses, intimates, and jeans to accessories, beauty and home goods. Free People is synonymous with feminine silhouettes, vintage-inspired florals, and statement jewelry. The brand allows its customer to experiment with style and texture while staying true to their artistic and carefree spirit. This aligns perfectly with my personal values around style as self-expression.
3. Why do you want to work for Free People?
Hiring managers want to know you have a genuine interest in the company and what draws you specifically to the brand.
Sample Answer: I’m very passionate about fashion, especially brands like Free People that allow people to showcase their individuality. Having shopped at your stores for years, I’m drawn to the energy, creativity, and community that your brand embodies. I would be excited to work for a company that puts as much thought into its mission and ethos as it does into its products. The opportunity to be part of promoting artistry and freedom through fashion really resonates with me. Also, the fact that Free People empowers its employees to take initiative and grow their skills makes it an ideal environment for me to develop as a stylist. I’d love to join a team and company that aligns so strongly with my personal and professional values.
4. What relevant experience do you have for this role?
Since Free People looks for skills specific to specialty retail, you want to highlight experience that translates to their floor. Play up styling, merchandising, or customer service skills gained through past jobs or internships. For entry-level roles, coursework or passion projects also work.
Sample Answer: As a stylist intern at an indie clothing boutique last summer, I honed skills in merchandise styling, inventory management, and customer service. I was responsible for curating floral maxi dresses, jumpsuits, and accessories to create cohesive boho-inspired looks on the store floor that aligned with ongoing trends. This really helped me develop my styling skills and eye for what works well together. I also assisted customers, answered product questions, and recommended pieces to complement their purchases. Additionally, I studied Textile Design where I learned about apparel production, textiles, and fashion trends. I’m confident this experience has prepared me well to add value as a retail stylist and sales associate at Free People.
5. What would you do if a customer was unsatisfied with a purchase?
Customer service is the lifeblood of retail so you want to demonstrate patience, empathy and problem-solving. Share how you would go above-and-beyond to satisfy an unhappy customer.
Sample Answer: Firstly, I would listen carefully and empathize with the customer to understand why they are unsatisfied. I would then apologize for their disappointment and assure them I will do my best to find a solution that works for them. Depending on the situation, I may offer suggestions like a different size or coordinating accessories to enhance their purchase. If they wish to return the item, I would process the return quickly and politely per company policy. I would also notify the store manager regarding their feedback so we can improve the customer experience. The most important thing is to ensure the customer feels heard, valued, and leaves the store feeling positively about Free People despite the initial dissatisfaction. My goal is always to turn difficult situations into constructive learning opportunities.
6. How would you deal with an angry or difficult customer?
Similar to the previous question, this assesses your grace under pressure. Share how you would calmly resolve any issues.
Sample Answer: When dealing with an angry or difficult customer, I would first listen attentively to understand their concerns, without getting defensive. I’d empathize with their perspective and then apologize that they’ve had a disappointing experience. Next, I would clarify any misunderstandings and see how I may be able to resolve the situation respectfully. This could involve collaborating with my manager or other store teams to find a suitable solution. If the customer continues to be discourteous, I would politely disengage and ask my manager to take over while I assist other shoppers. However, my priority would always be turning a negative interaction into a positive outcome whenever feasible. The customer may be having a bad day unrelated to us, so patience and compassion go a long way.
7. How do you stay up-to-date on fashion trends?
Retailers look for true fashion enthusiasts who have their pulse on what’s hot. Discuss blogs, social media, magazines and other sources you use to stay in-the-know.
Sample Answer: Staying current on fashion and style trends is something I’m genuinely passionate about. I like to follow several leading brands and influencers on Instagram who are driving what’s new and upcoming. I also have a few favorite blogs that I check weekly, such as Song of Style and Atlantic-Pacific, known for their trend-spotting skills. Additionally, I make mood boards on Pinterest of styles I’m crushing on for the season. When time permits, I enjoy reading magazines like Vogue as well to get insights from industry experts on emerging trends. I also people watch and take note of chic outfits when I’m out and about. Being so immersed in the fashion world allows me to bring these relevant insights and style tips to customers at Free People.
8. How would you encourage customers to sign up for our credit card?
This assesses your ability to upsell products and promotions, which is a key retail skill. Share techniques you’d use to motivate sign-ups.
Sample Answer: I would promote the credit card by highlighting specific benefits that resonate with our customers, such as discounts on their purchases that day or free shipping for online orders. When they are at the checkout counter, I would politely mention the perks of signing up and that it only takes a few minutes. I would also educate them on other advantages like rewards points and styling advice from our experts when they use the card. During slower times, I may bring up the credit card organically while assisting customers on the floor. My goal would be promoting it as an exclusive VIP pass to
Free People Brand Interview 2015
FAQ
What to expect from a free people interview?
Why do I want to work at Free People?
What is the star method when interviewing?
Why should we hire you?
How do you answer a job interview question?
The best answer, Jennifer explains, focuses on your specific qualifications. “Describe the skills, tasks and even work environment that you enjoy and make the connection to the role that you are interviewing for by highlighting how this role would allow you to focus on that kind of work.” Example answer: 1.
What questions do employers ask during an interview?
While we can’t know exactly what an employer will ask, here are 10 common interview questions along with advice on how to answer them. The questions include: Could you tell me something about yourself and describe your background in brief?: Interviewers like to hear stories about candidates.
What makes a good interview answer?
A strong answer will demonstrate how your skills and experience will make you successful in the new role. As Jennifer explains, “Like with answers to many questions asked in an interview, this is your opportunity to show you have done your research, you understand the role, and you are aligned with the company’s goals and values.”
What questions do interviewers ask about your work style?
When an interviewer asks you about your work style, they’re probably trying to imagine you in the role. How will you approach your work? What will it be like to work with you? Will you mesh well with the existing team?
