Personal stylist worth the money?

[DogElephantTigerShark]

Oh wise ones of mumsnet. Im considering asking for a session with a stylist for my birthday but would love to hear any experiences about how useful you’ve found it? Im really looking for someone to help me develop my personal style… thank you!

Not a personal stylist but I think John Lewis do a personal shopper session where the assistant picks out clothes that would suit you and your lifestyle. You aren't obliged to buy anything and I don't think there's a fee

I tried one years ago. Turns out I was more stylish than her… not a great experience and £450 down the drain.

I did one years ago and it was really helpful - helped me to accept that some things will never suit me and I should stop buying them in the hope that this time will be different! She measured me so I now know that I have a long body in proportion to my arms and legs - so while I'm not short (5 foot 4) I do buy short-length trousers, and need a longer-line top (no Chanel jackets for me...).

There was also a quiz to identify your "style identity", you could try googling that to get an idea of what you prefer? Classic, Romantic, Gamine, Natural - err I think there were 7 but those are the ones I remember!

Thanks for feedback, sounds like it is dependent on how good the stylist is - which makes sense. Just no idea how to work that out based on internet searches!

I worked with a brilliant one earlier this year. A bit scatty but very good at what she did. I came out with a full style assessment, shape evaluation, colours done and recommendations of the first things to buy to steer my wardrobe in the right direction.

Don't want to 'spam' by posting her website here but happy to share her details if you'd like.

Ive contacted a couple because I was interested in someone helping me “shop my wardrobe” rather than buy new. My main concern is that many seem to be “nicey nice” - I’m not looking for a white shirt, blazer with some heels. I did contact Lucy Clifford ( who did a TV show last year) who was lovely but out of my price range. More recently I DMd someone I saw on Instagram who actually didn’t respond - she has a very quirky style. I think I will probably find someone organically though. I have had a cool friend come and look through my clothes and make suggestions but it would be good to get someone who has no preconceived ideas about me. Sorry - no help.

Hi Penguin, yes please for the recommendation!

I used a personal shopper in a department for a big night out. The lady was very helpful and I bought a skirt and top which was perfect for the occasion and something I’d never have considered. I wore the top loads afterwards with different bottoms that she suggested.

@DogElephantTigerShark here's her website.

When I first got in touch with her the Contact form on her site wasn't working, so I'd drop her an e-mail rather than using the form on the site, just in case.

John Lewis stylist was great, no charge and no pressure to buy

I also recommend John Lewis - it’s free so nothing to lose. They were super helpful and I’ve had a lot of compliments on the clothes

@penguinwithasuitcase could I ask if you did a virtual or in-person session?

@thecircusclown everything online –I don't live in the UK so it was all over Zoom.