What’s good, America? GRAZIA USA asks fashion industry leaders and influential voices to share their secrets to a life well-lived: from the small delights of daily coffee orders to thought-provoking literature and more complex topics like sustainability and social activism. Welcome to #whatsGOOD.
Here, we chat with celebrity stylist Petra Flannery about her career, clients, and what it takes to pull off the perfect award seasons look.
#WhatsGOOD With Petra Flannery

#GOODExperience
Are there any experiences or lessons that have stuck with you in your career?
Important lessons for sure. The most important is to do what you love and keep working at it. If you do something that’s really true to yourself, that you believe in, the success will come. And keep learning, it only makes you better.
#GOODInspo
Where do you draw inspiration from? What were your sources of inspiration for the Oscars looks you styled?
I draw inspiration from everything around me – whether it be art, architecture, editorials, films. Renee’s Oscars look this year was actually inspired by a photoshoot we did a few years back for Bridget Jones Diary. She happened to be wearing a dress in the same shade – totally different design but it got us to think pink! Armani brought this beautiful color and crystal embellished design to life.
#GOODOutfit
What in your opinion makes the perfect red carpet look?
A lot goes into creating the perfect red carpet look. It is the perfect stage for expressing style. Ultimately, I think having confidence in what you are wearing is the most important element – a great shoe and fabulous jewelry help too!
#GOODHealth
What steps do you take to protect your physical and mental health during the stress and craziness of award season?
It’s always important to protect your physical and mental health. This year especially. I’ve learned that sometimes letting go and allowing a situation to take its natural course can give you a clearer mindset. It’s also important to be present and to think in the now.
#GOODCollab
How important is coming together with hairstylists and makeup artists to achieve the best results?
I love to collaborate with hairstylists and makeup artists. I often pull photos and references of images, especially editorials I love. Being a team is an integral part of the overall look. It’s how you create magical moments.
#GOODDay
Give us a rundown of what your Oscars Sunday looks like?
By Oscars Sunday most of the work is already completed. Oscars Sunday this year looks a bit different from the usual but I started it with a walk… grabbed a coffee and then it was time to head downtown for glam and a COVID test ;).
#GOODStart
How did you get started in styling? What prompted your career in celebrity styling?
I grew up surrounded by fashion. When I graduated college, I worked behind the scenes of the fashion world as an agent for Elite Models. After that, I started working in production and loved being on sets and seeing how a stylist helped to create the perfect image. I assisted Andrea Lieberman for a few years before going out on my own in 2006. It has been such a wonderful journey to grow with my clients.
#GOODMemories
Tell us about your favorite red carpet memory?
Emma Stone in the custom Lanvin jumpsuit at the 2015 Golden Globes. It’s incredible how much mileage this one look received. I’m still being asked questions about this look and her wearing pants back then. I didn’t realize how groundbreaking it was going to be, but in retrospect, it was a very special and modern look created by Alber Elbaz. Thanks to Alber’s design and Emma’s confidence, we created a trend.
#GOODVibes
Who in your life brings you good vibes and positive energy?
My husband Willie, my son Peter, and my team. It’s important to surround yourself with people who have good, creative energy.
#GOODClients
What constitutes a strong working relationship with clients?
Understanding the client, their style persona, and being able to help shape that. Trust is an integral part of it.