How to help clients stand out and showcase their unique style with confidence.
Living in a world that constantly tells us to buy more, coupled with constant exposure to a social media landscape that fuels trend cycles, makes it tricky for clients to figure out what they like and separate their personal preferences from what consumerism influences them to buy.
That’s where personal stylists play a vital role in helping clients distill their fashion style to reflect their personality and BRING OUT THEIR TRUE ESSENCE.
Below are some trusted methods we train professional stylists to use to help their clients assemble the perfect wardrobe.
How to Achieve Your Client’s Perfect Look
Much of what goes into putting together a flattering wardrobe relies on understanding your client’s lifestyle, fashion preferences, and natural coloring.
1. Do a Closet Audit
A CLOSEST AUDIT IS A POWERFUL TOOL that can help you assess your client’s wardrobe in a short amount of time. Take stock of each item and help decide what can be revived and what needs to be donated or thrown away.
The ultimate goal is a neat, orderly closet where outfits can be easily created. That way, your client won’t have to mindlessly search through all the pieces they no longer wear. Instead, they’ll have access to their favorite items right away.
2. Create a Moodboard
You may find that your clients cannot accurately express their style. This is where a mood board becomes a valuable asset. Ask them to bring in photographs, clothing pieces, colors and patterns they are drawn to -visuals that exemplify their preferred style. They can even assemble a Pinterest board.
Gathering aspirational images will help you detect patterns and themes that tell a story regarding your client’s desired wardrobe. As the cliche goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.”
3. Understand Their Lifestyle
Professions, recreational activities, and localities shift wardrobes in unique directions. For example, a finance professional would typically need to dress in more conservative, tailored attire. At the same time, individuals working in advertising may be able to express themselves more freely through vibrant, relaxed garments.
The climate also dictates fabric types – warmer weather calls for light and breathable fabrics like linen and cotton. In contrast, colder weather encourages thick, heavy and tightly-woven material such as wool, flannel, fleece and corduroy.
Therefore, aside from individual preference, it is essential to HAVE A COMPLETE OVERVIEW OF A CLIENT’S LIFESTYLE.
“Fashion is what designers offer you four times a year. And style is what you choose.” —Lauren Hutton.
4. Know Their Silhouette
Personal styling 101 starts with knowing how BODY TYPE AFFECTS CLOTHING CHOICE. For instance, those with an “oval/apple” body shape often want to draw the eye down and away from the midsection, meaning their clothing should fit well on the shoulders, arms and chest, with skirts or pants that flare outwards from the thigh.
Conversely, an “oval/pear” body shape should focus on broadening the shoulders and giving the illusion of a slimmer waist. Suggestions include tailored jackets, A-line dresses and light colors to draw the eye up away from the hips.
Those with an hourglass figure likely want to emphasize curves by wearing wrap dresses and form-fitting tailored garments. Additionally, athletic builds best suit tailored, structured clothing that avoids making them look bigger than they are.
Lastly, clients with a petite frame should choose simple clothing that doesn’t look overwhelming, such as patterns that don’t engulf their frames.
5. Identify Signature Pieces
Having signature pieces is important in creating your client’s unique style. These items should reflect the essence of their wardrobe and be the foundation upon which the mix-and-match capsule wardrobe of their dreams is built – after all, we often find ourselves wearing 20% of our closet 80% of the time!
With a few key signature pieces, you can help your clients develop wardrobes that elevate their style and serve them well over the years. For instance, one client may have a specific style of jeans they wear, whereas another may love a particular type of handbag.
Use Color Science Theory
Most stylists USE SEASONAL COLOR ANALYSIS to highlight their client’s natural features, evoke a particular mood or feeling, and establish a personal style. You likely use the right colors to make your clients’ eyes look brighter, skin looks healthier, and hair looks more vibrant. But do you know about ByFERIAL’s image consultant training courses?
Our internationally accredited course uses the 4X4 Color System (16 Seasons)® and encompasses color theory, body shape assessment, wardrobe organizing, and personal shopping. In addition, you’ll learn about marketing, branding, and how to establish prosperous image consulting services.
What are you waiting for? Expand your color horizons and learn how to accentuate and CELEBRATE YOUR CLIENT’S COLOR DNA!
