Jennifer Allemann

By Joyce Moed, Reporter

BRIDGETON, Mo.–Jennifer Allemann, public relations specialist for Vantage Credit Union, is one of 10 finalists in People magazine’s “America’s Worst-to-Best Dressed” contest.

As part of her contest entry, Allemann submitted a photo and explanation of why she could use a makeover. In that explanation she wrote that she has an “uncanny ability to wear the wrong outfit for the occasion.”

“As a PR professional, my job is to publicize the credit union,” Allemann said, “so I’m the one behind-the-scenes working to promote our brand. I thought it would be fun to jump in front of the spotlight instead of standing in the wings.”

To watch Allemann’s 10-minute video, and to vote, log on to http://peoplewb.secondthought.com.

CU Journal: What is the "America's Worst-to-Best Dressed" contest all about?

Allemann: It’s for those of us who are “style-challenged.” Ten finalists were chosen from over 1,200 entries. We were all asked to submit a 10-minute video telling People.com why we thought we were America’s Worst Dressed woman. It was really fun. My friends make fun of my style choices all of the time, so they were more than happy to help me.
 
CU: Why did you apply?

Allemann: I got an e-mail in my inbox from People.com (I subscribe to the magazine) that said, “You try your hardest to be fashionable — but it always backfires. You can’t seem to accessorize, and your close friends often drop not-too-subtle hints about your favorite shirt. If this sounds like you, PEOPLE is here to help!”
 
CU: What was the application process?

Allemann: That description sounded like me. I sent the attached photo in of me at a wedding. (I stood out like a sore thumb.)  They called right away and wanted to know more. I told them that I’m addicted to bargain-shopping and can put an entire outfit together for under $20. The problem is when I go to my closet I can’t put two pieces together and shoes/accessories just give me anxiety. So, I wear my corporate causal uniform every day, which is a Vantage Credit Union polo and Dockers.
 
CU: Do you know what was unique about your applications that caused you to be one of the 10 finalists?

Allemann: Each of the girls has a niche. For example, one’s a stay-at-home mom who’s still wearing maternity clothes even though her youngest child is 3, one who was addicted to ‘80s spandex styles, one who’s lost 75 pounds and needs a new wardrobe, etc. My niche is that I’m a bargain-shopper (I love Goodwill, and I bought a lot of cool stuff when New York & Co. closed last summer.)
 
CU: What does the winner receive?

Allemann: I can win a wardrobe makeover with bags of new clothes! (What woman doesn’t want bags of clothes?) You’ll also get professional styling advice (so you know what do to with those new clothes) and your own photo shoot for an upcoming issue of PEOPLE!
 
CU: Can you please share with me a little bit about your position at Vantage Credit Union?