Choosing a Personal Stylist to work with is a very personal thing and I’m always honoured that my clients have put their trust in me to help them look and feel their absolute best.
Over the past seven years I have found that being let into someone’s wardrobe and helping them unlock their signature style is always about SO much more than just the clothes. It often brings up a lot of emotion and requires vulnerability and trust from both sides.
There are lots of amazing stylists out there and I don’t see them as my competition at all. My view is that different stylists will appeal to different people – that is the joy of this industry and why I love to collaborate and support others so much. There is room for us all!
However, when there is a lot of choice it can feel a little daunting knowing where to start when it comes to who to book in and invest your money with. I’ve put a few things below that I would recommend you consider when you’re looking for a personal stylist to work with.
Check out their social media
Most stylists now have Facebook pages and Instagram accounts so give them a follow for a while before you book in with them. Their online profiles, posts and things like Instagram stories are a great way of getting a sense of how they work, their values and their approach before you book in with them.
You could even ask them a couple of questions on their posts and take part in their Q&As (if they do these) to get a feel for how they may help you in a 1-2-1 session. Connecting with a stylist in this way allows you to get to know them a little better. A bit of ‘try before you buy’ so-to-speak!
Read their reviews/testimonials
A recommendation from a friend is probably the best way to find a Personal Stylist but if this isn’t possible then have a good read of their past reviews or testimonials (check their Facebook pages and some will also have a ‘testimonials’ section on their website). Reading how others describe the services they offer and the benefits they have reaped from them is powerful stuff – if the reviews echo what you’re looking for then you’re probably onto a winner.
Look for someone who is qualified
I’m sorry but having great personal style does not qualify someone to advise others (in my opinion). Different colouring types, body shapes, personalities and proportions need to be dressed in different ways and like any job, much of this needs to be learnt. I have spent a lot of time and money training in my craft and continue to renew and top-up my training on a regular basis. As with anything, get someone who has qualifications from a reputable body.
Get a sense of their style
Have a look at the style of clothes they wear BUT don’t discount a stylist if their personal style isn’t necessarily what you would wear. A good stylist won’t just dress you in clothes that they like, they’ll dress you in clothes that suit you; your body shape, colouring, budget, personality and lifestyle. That being said, if you REALLY don’t like their style then maybe look for someone who has a style you can at least appreciate and admire, even if it isn’t something you would necessarily wear yourself.
Give them a call
If you’ve been through all of the above and feel you may have found ‘the one’, give them a call. All the stylists I know, myself included, are always more than happy to have a chat before you make a booking. Use this time to give them a bit of background and outline where you feel you need their help and then ask them how they would approach things with you. This will give you a chance to build a little rapport with them and ask them any questions you may have.
If you’ve decided you want to invest in a personal stylist I do hope these tips will help you find your perfect match!
Until next time.
Anna xoxo