Considering a personal shopper

[Rufffles]

I'm considering booking a personal shopper appointment. I'm 44 and stuck in an absolute rut clothes-wise. I live in jeans and a t-shirt / jumper from this time of year through to early summer. I'd like to branch out...wide-legged trousers? A dress that actually suits me? I'm a size 12-14.

Brands I have bought from in the past and have liked: Hobbs, COS, Next, Oasis (RIP).

Has anyone used a personal shopper recently? Any recommendations / suggestions of where to start?

Hi, I've had a couple of appointments with the John Lewis personal shoppers.

It's free and I've only had good experiences.

They pull some things in advance, you have a chat and they head off to get lots more.

It's all very nice and calm and no heavy sell at all.

I've come away every time with things I love but would have picked up myself. Plus it's JL so very easy to keep a note of other things you liked and wait for sales!

I would definitely say give them a go, nothing to lose!

In theory I'd love to do one of the type where they look at your wardrobe and then actually go shopping, everywhere, with you. But those are expensive before any clothes!

Thanks @Hereforthedramaz - that's very helpful indeed!

Selfridges in London also have this service, if you are within reach. They have such a huge range in store that they are bound to find some gems for you. I've heard nothing but good things about their stylists.

Do you have SM? If yes, may be also worth following some people so you can be inspired and/or look at pinterest which style you like

Another vote for John Lewis. The person who worked with me was so good, I booked her again for the next season. That was pre Covid but I still wear the things she introduced me to, and shop with more confidence.

Yes. I have used this service. Unlike many others, she has loads of experience. Over 20 years I think. Lots of great reviews too. She totally revamped my wardrobe and showed me an easy way to shop in the future. It has been transformative. The trouble with a lot of the shop-based ones I find they only serve a certain demographic and usually lack in experience. She does gift vouchers too if you want to ask for a special occasion! https://capsuleclosetstylist.com/personal-shopping-experience-gift/

Hi, this looks interesting.
Did you do the online service or something in person?
It seems American focused but are you in the UK or somewhere else?

Check out MM Styling, they have great YouTube videos which is what I use, but if I could I would use their full service. I have used JL before but that just focuses on new purchases which is great, but to get someone to also review my existing clothes colours and cuts and match that to my lifestyle, that would be perfect.

Flannels in liverpool has just started to offer personal shopping. A few people I know are considering trying it. I will not as I like to choose what I wear myself

I am based in the UK. She is too. I think a lot of her clients are abroad hence why it is US-focused. I did the online service, but she does do in person too. I booked one of her free consultations first then we discussed how she could help me and what I needed.

I like the stylists at circler for something a little different site.circlerfashion.com

I go to Clare Watkins, who is based near Manchester and is AMAZING. I think she sometimes does London appointments too. www.clarewatkins.com/

Another option is Lookiero. It works best if you put up some pictures of what you'd like to match stuff, and repeated go to the picture game to help with styling. Also if you can describe what you're after. Although they can sometimes be quite literal.

May be one for after an in-person consultation when you want to add in some extra pieces