What to Wear. How to Wear It. Where to Find It.

October 3rd, 2014 admin

Last week I found myself at a dinner party seated next to a finance guy who, somewhat politely, asked me to define wardrobe consulting and explain the cost/benefit of the services I provide (translation: he insinuated that I play with clothing all day). He looked like he could use some help in the sartorial department so I (somewhat begrudgingly) obliged. Here’s what I told him…

At Ali Call Consulting, I employ a three-pronged approach to wardrobe consulting to maximize wardrobe functionality. I show my clients what to wear, how to wear it and where to find it. The process is as follows:

What to Wear – the Wardrobe Edit
During the wardrobe edit, I have my client try on every piece of clothing in his/her closet. It might seem like overkill, but this very thorough approach is necessary to ensure maximized functionality. I can’t tell you how many times a client says to me “I’m covered for work pants” and the reality is that their trousers were purchased several years ago and the fit and silhouette is no longer valid. The point of the wardrobe edit is to truly clean out all of the skeletons in the closet. In addition, the dialogue generated during the process paints a realistic picture of each client’s lifestyle and allows me to accurately assess needs.

How to Wear It – Private Client Styling
I put together a budgeted buy plan to ensure that all needs are satisfied.
If we are working with a limited budget, the buy plan allows for prioritization of styles to ensure that all items have “friends” and the client has multiple outfit options (maximizing functionality). Once the buy plan is approved, I shop. When the shop is finished, I style.

Where to Find It – Personal Shopping
I prefer the Hi/Low shopping strategy and I approach Bergdorf Goodman and Forever21 with equal amounts of fervor (Gianvito Rossi heels with a Zara jumpsuit? Yes, please!). And, since I am in the market every day, I am able to take full advantage of retailer promotions. My clients are constantly floored by the pricepoints of the items that I bring to them. In most cases, the promotional savings and focused buy plan pay for the service entirely. The result is a budget-conscious wardrobe, totally unique to you, filled with items that you will wear multiple times, multiple ways.

Match Point: Wardrobe Consulting is far more involved than just playing with clothing. Any questions? ali@alicallconsulting.com