Hi! I am a 2nd grade teacher, looking to update my wardrobe for the school year. Problem is: I don't have the patience/time to look through store after store, rack after rack. I also don't have tons of money to spend on clothing. This often results in m eshopping at Gap, Old Navy, Target and wearing semi-generic outfits that don't always fit just right.
I was thinking of using a store's free personal shopper program. Anyone tried it? Would you recommend it? Any other suggestions to help out a lady who wants cute clothes but isn't a great shopper?
I've used Nordstrom's personal shopper. Some good ways to save money are to have a clear budget in mind, go during the friends and family sale,(happening around now?), and tell your personal shopper that you are a teacher and need help finding great deals and stuff on sale. A good personal shopper will take the challenge to see what she can find you within your budget.
I pre-shop online: Many retailers' websites show you coordinated outfits/styles/looks, so I tend to look there, and then call the local store to see if they have the pieces in my size. If they do, I can go try it on. If it doesn't fit perfectly, but could be altered to fit better, I do so.
Take advantage of the personal shoppers at Nordstrom (make sure they know your budget) Many personal shoppers are a free service. If you go with a stylist (also very good), you do pay for most of these services but they are good at what they do and may not work specifically with 1 store.
I have a friend who works at White House Black Market and when they get something in that is "me" she holds my size (2) until I get in to try on because my size typically goes first. I have some great basic pieces from here and some fun pieces as well. She has chosen some things that I would never select from a clothing rack that are some of my favorite pieces. They do this for a lot of people at White House Black Market.
Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft have employees with a good eye for what looks great on someone as well.
A lot of boutiques will have nice things as well.
I know being a teacher, it is easy to get in a rut with clothing plus you need durability and something that you can clean easily. I admit, my good clothes go to the cleaners and that can get pricey, especially for women's clothing.
Good luck
This is one of the services I do.. This started because many of my friends hate to shop. I have been in retail since I was 16.
Yes, if a store offers free personal shoppers go for it. Be honest about your budget and what you like to wear and absolutely will not wear.
If you have a friend that you admire her style.. you could even ask her to assist you.
I would consider taking the clothes I have to a tailor and having them fitted to my body specifically. Yes it will come at some costs but the end results are pieces of clothing that will work well together. You may also consider the services of a stylist. They can piece together the wardrobe you have and find the perfect pieces for you that suit your lifestyle and personal style development.
If I had a choice to make this clothing makeover I would go with a stylist over a personal shopper. I think you just get more bang for your buck. A revamping of the clothes you have coupled with the purchasing of new pieces too. Just some added food for thought.
