Have you been toying with the idea of working with a personal stylist for years or recently had a change in life and your wardrobe hasn’t quite caught up? If you are thinking about hiring. a personal stylist for the first time there are a few key questions to ask yourself and your stylist before you commit to working together.

I often get asked by my prospective clients what questions they should be asking and what to consider when working with a personal stylist. Some of the questions are questions you should be asking yourself —am I ready for challenging myself to try new things? Can I clearly voice my opinion and preferences?

Experience is EVERYTHING!

I truly believe that every client I have ever had has made me a better stylist. I’ve learned a lot over the eight years I’ve had my own business. Time and experience not only shape how to approach connecting with a diverse set of clients but also the realities of dressing very different body shapes. Finding the right fit in terms of size, brand, and aesthetic takes time and a lot of data points. Are there one-size-fits-all designs out there, sometimes but often it is the nuance of deeply knowing market inventory and having a sense of a brand’s historic fit that will make a shopping trip successful. Make sure your stylist is experienced working with a client with your specific needs.

Professional Credentials

Putting in the time and resources to become an educated stylist should be a priority if you are a professional stylist. Personal styling is more than what looks good on someone on day one. Having technical knowledge of fabric science, clothing production, color theory, body shape, brand quality, and promotional calendars will help you make informed purchases for building a quality wardrobe that lasts.

Connection and Communication

Beyond the technical know-how, the biggest factor in a successful styling relationship is good communication. Any seasoned personal stylist will aim to anticipate a client’s needs and desires but ultimately it requires a good partnership to make fashion gold. Ensure your stylist takes the time to listen and understand your goals before moving forward. Also, make sure you feel comfortable sharing your preferences and that they are well received. If you are missing that initial “click” or feeling of connection they may not be the right stylist for you.

Referrals and Reviews

You can learn a lot about the nature of a stylist from reading reviews from past clients. Use platforms like Yelp and Google or smaller regional online referral forums to learn more about typical clients and styling sessions. Are there common experiences mentioned that you value? Is the way the concepts are presented the way you learn best (ie written tip sheets, visual examples, scenario styling, the ability to ask follow up questions)?

Budget and Incentives