Do You Actually Need a Stylist?
After 25 years of working with personal clients to sort out their closets, shopping, and/or wardrobe conundrums, I’ve discovered there are three basic client types. Almost everyone could use some problem-solving, and unless you have the tools to solve the problem yourself, some help might be a game-changer for you. The first step is to decide which category you fall into. If it’s any of the three listed below, you might actually benefit from working with a stylist!
Client 1: The Devil is in the Details
You might be in this category if you need something very specific. Often, this is a professional requirement, such as when you’re a lawyer who needs to appear in a corporate style in court, or when you’re attending a special event like a charity gala or celebration. I have an extensive background in wardrobe for theatre, film, television, and print, which gives me a strong understanding of how clothing functions under different conditions to create a desired effect. My background in costume design allows me to create a persona around you that delivers the impact you want to achieve.
For example, while the image of a newscaster is very much formal business attire, like suits, as the world has become more casual, my on-camera clients want to wear more everyday clothes that still give them the gravitas they need to report the news. I also have to consider the strict constraints of television cameras, whose lenses can distort prints and make some items very distracting for viewers, who will likely have an opinion on it as well. An artist on stage, like an opera singer or musician, needs to be visible all the way to the back of the venue, so we tend to focus more on a strong silhouette and colour palette that applies the technical aspects of stagecraft to the wardrobe. Even if it’s just for your friend’s wedding, it’s essential to use the context to inform your decisions about what to wear, so you can be appropriately dressed and comfortable at the venue without distracting from the guest of honour. And you want the pictures to look great too!
Client 2: The Fashionista’s Little Helper
If you’re a fashion lover who enjoys shopping and takes pleasure in creating your looks, even down to your workout wear, this might be you. You’re likely very sociable (by choice or not) and need to attend a lot of events. You may enjoy travelling and need guidance to help you achieve your goals while you’re on the road. We’re talking influencers, community leaders, and those ladies who lunch. You probably have more than one closet that has become unmanageable, and could use some help sorting through it all.
My job is to harness your decision-making power with my tried-and-true methods, designed to deliver a functional space as quickly as possible. It can also extend beyond your closet organizing to finding key wardrobe items to move you in a new direction or to fill a gap we uncover during the edit. This can include some focused shopping with me to help you get to a place where you feel set up for the next phase of your life. I can even help with packing sessions for work trips or vacations, so you’re ready to maximize your style without sacrificing comfort while you’re away from home. You want to have fun with your clothes, and that requires some organization on the back end to make the most of what you have and make some room for what you want.
Client 3: Back to Basics
You might fit into this third category if you really need a wardrobe update or just need to buy some new clothes. Usually, it’s people who don’t enjoy shopping, don’t have the time, or don't yet know how to shop, but sometimes there’s just a need to find oneself and a desire to express a personal style. You might be going through some sort of life change, whether it’s a new job, trying to fit a changing body, or just needing clothing in general. I help you learn to shop for yourself and discover which types of items work for your particular lifestyle and personal goals. Even when the closet edit doesn’t take long, it’s usually the key to how you approach your wardrobe.
You likely need a plan to move forward, which could be an overarching style guide or a list of tangible items that are essential to building your wardrobe over time. You might even know you are missing some things, but are having a hard time finding them. I teach you how to find high-quality items, and I’m not here to just fill your closet as fast as possible. Building a wardrobe can take some time, but you could probably use a plan to get started.
No matter what category of client you are, every person has unique challenges and most people could benefit from the experience of a professional stylist. I have the expertise and creativity to find solutions that fit your lifestyle and budget so you can finally reach your goals. In as little as 4 hours, I can get you on your way to realizing your optimal situation and set you up for success. We can even work online!
Check out my services and feel free to email me for a free consultation.