What Not To Wear Season 2 Episode 12 Ross Byron

Ross Byron is the featured participant of season 2 episode 12 of the makeover show What Not To Wear. A 30-something assistant principal from New York, Ross is a dedicated educator with an admirable professional commitment. He’s also a classic case of someone whose devotion to his career has left little time for himself, and his wardrobe reflects that fact. With a lackluster and outdated sense of style, Ross needs a major fashion intervention to help him put his best foot forward, both in and out of the classroom.

The hosts of What Not To Wear, Stacy London and Clinton Kelly, are more than up for the task at hand. Ross describes his style as “old man chic”, and Stacy is quick to point out that fashion is one thing that should never age. Clinton agrees, suggesting that while Ross’s plain beige blazers and brown loafers may be comfortable, they’re not doing him any favors in projecting a modern, confident image to his colleagues and students. It’s time for Ross to step it up and embrace fashion that is both age-appropriate and on-trend.

The hosts start by conducting a wardrobe audit, and it’s a tough pill for Ross to swallow. They recommend getting rid of virtually everything he owns, from sweaters with elbow patches to suits that are a full size too big. As the piles of clothing destined for donation or trash bags grow, Ross begins to realize the harsh reality of his fashion mistakes. A prime example is the “chunky knit sweater vest” that he’s been wearing since the 90s; Stacy points out that this sweater is practically a museum piece and sends it to the trash pile.

With a closet now emptied of outdated and unflattering clothing, the hosts take Ross on a shopping spree to rebuild his wardrobe; but not before they put him through some “fashion boot camp” to teach him the basics of building an outfit. This includes showing Ross the importance of a good fit, demonstrating how to layer clothing for warmth and interest, and introducing him to the colors and patterns that will add personality and polish to his look.

When it comes to shopping, Ross is initially overwhelmed but he quickly gets into the swing of things. The hosts encourage him to try on pieces that he may not have considered before, like suede blazers and cardigans with elbow pads. They also show Ross how to have fun with accessories, like colorful shoelaces and pocket squares to punch up more classic looks. The end result is a wardrobe that is modern yet classic, and better suited to Ross's fit and personality.

The final reveal is an emotional one for Ross, who can hardly believe how truly transformed he looks. The beige blazers have been replaced with sharply tailored suits in rich navy and grey tones. The brown loafers have been ditched in favor of sleek, polished dress shoes. And, perhaps most exciting for Ross, the hosts have found a variety of knitwear in modern colors and patterns that flatter his frame and add interest to his outfits.

With his new wardrobe in tow, Ross heads back to his school with pride and confidence. His colleagues are wowed by his new look, and he takes pleasure in shrugging off his old style in favor of a wardrobe that reflects who he is. Stacy and Clinton have done it yet again, proving that with a little bit of fashion know-how, anyone can be transformed into a stylish example of their best selves.