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Insider - Dressing Mr. Higgins: Behind the Scenes with the Stylist on America Says!

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TUES. SEP. 27 BY: Penny
Have you ever watched America Says and noticed that John Michael Higgins is a sharp dresser? If so, you have wardrobe stylist Joanne Lavin to thank! See why she’s a master in the fashion industry and how her choices have made Michael Higgins the style icon he has become on the show.
The Stylist Behind the Scenes
For Joanne Lavin, style has been the name of her game since childhood. “My parents had a high-fashion clothing store for more than 40 years,” the Chicago native explained. “So, it really is in my DNA!”
Joanne got her start working in a well-known fashion store in her hometown of Chicago. Her rise through the ranks and subsequent travels throughout the US and Europe made her a well-known figure in the industry. In Paris, she found success in establishing a business that helped American travelers put together the perfect European wardrobe.
After her time in Europe, she made a new start in Los Angeles and dove headfirst into the world of television. Her Emmy-winning taste and experience have made her the perfect liaison between celebrities, designers, and brands.
After more than a decade working with Game Show Network, her expertise has made Michael Higgins one of the best-dressed celebrities on the network.
“He said to me once, ‘I get more compliments on my clothes than my performance!’” Lavin told Game Show Insider. “Michael is so talented, so that was a fabulous moment for me!”
Our Exclusive Interview with Joanne
I chatted with Joanne about the challenges of doing wardrobe for game shows, and how it’s more than just pulling a suit off a rack. The following are highlights of our conversation, elegantly tailored for space and clarity.
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GAME SHOW INSIDER: What does a wardrobe stylist do on a game show?
JOANNE LAVIN: I create an image with the network of how they want the host to look. And then I dress the host for five-six shows per day. That’s usually more than 125 shows, produced within a month and a half!
Does a host bring their own personal style, or do you lead them? 
I lead them, usually. Hosts have to love what they look like, but I don’t think I’ve ever had a problem. Who doesn’t love dressing up, especially when you’re on TV? 
Do you ever have to convince a host of a particular look?
Not a lot, but it does happen. Everybody has an image of their own style, but I love giving them a new perspective. And I love working with real people. That’s what I love about game shows!
What’s it like to work with John Michael Higgins on America Says? 
He’s amazing. I’ve worked with him since the beginning of America Says. Michael is like the gentleman of game shows. He’s one of the best people to dress. 
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How would you describe his style?
In his normal life, he just throws on a pair of Doc Martens or sneakers. But he loves getting dressed up, and you can see that. I get to have fun with Michael because he’s a suit man. I get him the most incredible suits. I work primarily with Brooks Brothers for him.
Do you ever have disagreements?
Very few. I know the kind of shoes he likes. I know that certain colors look great on him. He really loves everything I do.
So, hosts like John Michael Higgins and others have developed trust in you over the years?
Not only trust, you become their friend. I’ve dressed Michael for the Emmys. Being a wardrobe stylist is very specialized. You need to be the kind of person who likes to help somebody else look their best.
What does a typical production day look like for you?
I come in, grab the clothes for the first show, and put them in the host’s dressing room. If we shoot three shows in the morning, he’s putting on three different shirts, ties, and pocket squares. After lunch, he changes his suit and we do it again.  
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Do you try to coordinate what the hosts and the contestants are wearing?
Yes. I set up what a host is going to wear on a daily basis and take a picture of every outfit in advance for the week. The contestants bring three outfits and the contestant stylist takes pictures to make sure we are coordinated. Game Show Network is very organized!
Do you think viewers are aware of the amount of time and thought that goes into wardrobe?
Absolutely not! There are so many moving parts: shopping, fittings, approvals, alterations. You have to make sure everybody’s happy. And if they don’t like it, you need to change it. 
How does Game Show Network differ from other TV networks you’ve worked with? 
They’re very thorough. Game Show Network is very passionate about what they do. And I think that’s why they’re so successful. 
If you could say something to the viewers, what would it be?
I love dressing people. And I especially love when the host loves what he’s wearing. To make him happy and make him feel good, that’s the whole thing for me.
Join the Fun on America Says!
Would you like to be on the same stage with the stylish John Michael Higgins? Then why not be an America Says contestant? Just fill out a brief application on our website and give it a shot! Best of luck from Game Show Insider — and keep watching America Says!
For airdates and times, visit the America Says show page.
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