Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Tips on Working with a Stylist

A consultation with a stylist is an opportunity to broaden your fashion horizons. It’s likely that you know what you like to wear, and what colors and pieces you are comfortable with. You may also have an ideal style that you “aspire” to have, but haven’t been able to pull together. Before you have a professional assess your closet, or take you out shopping, think about your views on fashion and dressing.

The big question: What do you love to wear?
Some possibilities…dresses, jeans, cozy pieces, long jackets, more coverage, less coverage, jewelry, flats, prints, bright colors, black, soft colors? A stylist can steer you toward the clothes that look good on you, and the accessories to polish your style. But in the end, you need to love what you are wearing and feel “at home” with your look. Giving a professional feedback about your life helps her to push you in the right directions. For example, you may love the style of a wrap dress, a tunic, or halter top, but can’t figure out how to wear this look with confidence. The right stylist can make these looks work in a way that suits your style.

Other questions:
Are you ready to get rid of the clothes that don’t work?
The answer should be yes, but it may take some time for you to get there. The clothes that “don’t work” are ones that you don’t wear. Perhaps they don’t fit you well, or are out of date by a few seasons. Maybe they are the wrong color, or are an unflattering print. If you don’t wear them, donate them. They will look great on someone else. And you will finally have more room in your closet for the clothes that you love.

What you basics are you lacking?
This requires some closet and dresser examination. You may think you have too many black tops, but in fact maybe only one fits you in the right way. You may think you have too many jeans, but in fact only wear three pairs consistently. A good stylist will emphasize the importance of basics. A collection of seamless tanks in the right colors can solve many wardrobe conundrums.

What occasions are you dressing for?
Are your work clothes the same you wear on the weekend? Do you have an “everyday” wardrobe that suits your personality? Are you looking for pieces for vacations? Travel? If you frequently have more formal events to attend, do you have the right outfits? If a friend called at the last minute and asked you to go out to dinner, could you open your closet and get dressed? This information about your lifestyle is very helpful to someone helping you build your wardrobe.

And make sure the stylist you choose is a good fit with your personality. It should be a productive process, but one that you enjoy.

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