When you go to a party and people ask what you do for a job, do you get a standard next question? As a Personal Stylist I do. Men often say "Is there really a market for that?" Women "wow, cool, but what is it that you actually do?" Both regularly ask if they are wearing the right colours. All Stylist's do things differently, but today's blog is about what I do and what a typical day and week can be like.
A typical day for me starts with, you guessed it, what to wear? Everybody knows how you look is only skin deep but also that first impressions count. If I talk the talk, I have to walk the walk. Once dressed it's some work in the office first thing in the morning, replying to emails and talking to clients. One morning I could be doing some local radio chats, another writing my fashion blogs. I will sort the social media for the day, posting on the company Facebook page and Tweeting.
I'll perhaps then head to a client's house to do a wardrobe consultation. When client's open the door I see the standard nervous/excited mix and always do my best to engage the client and set them at ease so they can enjoy their experience as much as possible. We begin with colour draping, which can be a revelation to people as it's amazing to see the changes in your skin when colours are good or bad. We move on to discussing body shapes & any particular problems with dressing. Once we understand the colours and shape and have chatted about lifestyle and work we check out what is in the wardrobe. Now the client is able to assess their clothing and understand why they haven't worn something.
I then may head off to a mall, the city or a pre-loved warehouse to shop with another client. I take my notes so I know exactly what we are looking for so we keep the shopping focused and within budget. It's always great to see the client again after the wardrobe session. They are usually excited to see the visual of all the practical advice already received. The next day I may be presenting a workshop for a corporate conference or seminar. Friday nights are popular for school fundraisers, where I do a 2 hour talk that is focused on people having a good time, laughing and picking up practical styling advice.
I'm passionate about people and helping them feel as confident as they possibility can. I love the variety of the interaction with mums, media, corporates, groups and public speaking. I get hugs and wonderful emails from client's who feel their life has been changed for the better. Be it in a pair of jeans that makes them feel sexy or them feeling they can finally find clothing that looks great on them.
It takes patience, empathy, high energy levels and skill dressing all body shapes to be a personal stylist. This is an extremely personal experience and I am always in awe of my client's bravery at tackling this issue which has often plagued them all their lives. I get a huge sense of achievement and reward from helping so many different people, which is why I love my job.
Stay warm, stay colourful, don't hide. Enjoy the benefits of Winter clothing and swim against the stream of dull and bulky clothing. You can do it and trust me when the compliments come streaming in you with be rather pleased you did.
Wardrobe Flair Facebook page - http://www.facebook.com/WardrobeFlair
Stay colourful!
Trudi
www.wardrobeflair.com
www.facebook.com/WardrobeFlair
www.twitter.com/WardrobeFlair
I often layer both ways. This way I can wear a sleeveless outfit if I don't want to show my arms, show the detail of the outfit but also have a fitted jacket over both layers. As mentioned, as long as these layers are not bulky, you can easily wear 3 fine layers and be totally comfortable, stylist and practical at the same time.
Stay colourful!
