Who Should Do It?Anyone who wants to look and feel pulled together but doesn’t have the time (or the inclination) to shop much or keep up with trends. “It used to be that only celebrities had stylists,” says Alyssa Dineen, a New York City–based personal stylist. “But in the past few years, my client roster has switched over to busy working moms who want to look good but have other, bigger priorities.” What to Try
Style Overhaul ($$$)The biggest bang for your buck (and also the biggest investment) is hiring a pro like Dineen to provide a complete style overhaul. This entails first fine-tuning what you already own—figuring out what you love and weeding out the things you never wear. Then she’ll help you assess your personal style and what looks good on you. The best part: a one-on-one shopping trip where she’ll pick out pieces, help you get them tailored, and match them with things you already own. Websites like ThumbTack.com provide quotes and reviews for services. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on your location and the stylist’s experience. Closet Consultation ($$)Most personal shoppers also offer a sort of à la carte menu. If you enjoy shopping for fun, for example, you can opt for just the closet consultation, where your personal stylist will help you organize your wardrobe and restyle your own pieces in new ways. Phone a Friend ($)Taking a DIY approach to the same process can also work wonders. “Style is such a personal thing, it’s hard to be objective about it,” says Dineen. “Just having another opinion can help make sense of the noise.” She suggests bringing in your most fashionable and forthright friend, pouring a glass of wine, and making an evening of it. Try on anything you’re unsure about and get their honest opinion. Then sort your newly pared-down wardrobe by category (work, casual, going out) and type (pants, tops, dresses). This will clearly show you any holes and any excess—who knew it was possible to own so many black pencil skirts?—so you can keep this in mind on your next shopping expedition.
2. In-Store Insiders
What Is It?Many large department stores have historically offered in-store personal shopping concierges. If you think the service comes with an enormous store tab, think again. Many options are low- to no-cost. Who Should Do It?Anyone who needs a little guidance culling the overstuffed racks. “Our personal shoppers are people who can maximize our clients’ time—and budget,” says John Cruz, senior vice president of private client relations at Saks Fifth Avenue. “They can help you build an entire wardrobe, find a new look for a special occasion, or even find the perfect gift.” What to Try
Department Store Services ($$$)Nearly all the big names (Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Macy’s) offer free consulting services to help you shop. Saks takes it a step further with a no-charge, post-consultation closet clean-out, and the pros at Bergdorf’s will in some cases do a styling session in your home gratis and help you integrate your new pieces into your closet. The catch? The not-free part is designer duds, of course.Mall Store Services ($$)Many of your favorite affordable stores at the mall also offer on-site help that most shoppers don’t know about. J. Crew will open a store early (or keep it open late) to suit your schedule if you book in advance. Chico’s offers private styling appointments early and late in the day to accommodate work schedules, and its stylists are available 24/7 by phone or email.Sophisticated Staff, Anywhere ($)Many stores that don’t offer personal consulting do have exceptionally knowledgeable employees. Stores like Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Club Monaco, Loft, and Madewell put personnel through rigorous training about issues such as sizing, silhouettes, fit, and materials, making them well qualified to help you. To walk away with only what you need, keep questions as specific and personal as possible. For example, “Can you tell me which of your pant styles are cut for fuller hips?” will help you make an informed choice, while “Which top is cuter?” might result in buyer’s remorse.
3. Online Options
What Is It?If you’d prefer your personal styling to be a slightly less, well, “personal” experience, take it to the internet instead. From online platforms that let you interact with a celebrity stylist to apps that will completely automate your closet, there’s a digital-first solution to all your wardrobe woes. Who Should Do It?Really, anyone. Digital platforms are great for commitment-phobes, anyone in an area without access to in-person professionals, and those who just want to test the waters before committing to a pro. “We’re in the business of personalization,” says Lisa Bougie, general manager of Stitch Fix, a popular online personal styling service that offers on-demand clothing shipments and sizes up to 24W and 3X. “We serve clients who are petite and plus and everything in between, and strive for diversity in aesthetic as well. But most important, it’s about convenience and saving time.” What to Try
