Everyone can benefit from a personal style session, even the most stylish fashionista. It can be intimidating to find someone you connect with, but when you do, it really is worth the time and effort. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of personal shopping as well as retailers that offer the service.

The Benefits of Personal Shopping

It’s free. Don’t feel pressured to buy something just because your stylist has spent time pulling looks for you; they will understand as long as you’re upfront and polite. Let them know what you like and don’t like because it will better your relationship, especially if you continue to work together. Depending on the retailer, your stylist will be paid an hourly rate during your session and if you do make a purchase, they will most likely make a small commission as well.

Learn how to wear trends. It might just be me, but sometimes I find the cutest piece and have no idea how to wear it. That’s exactly what a personal shopper is good for! I don’t usually buy items that work for only one occasion and would love to be able to easily mix and match new finds with the rest of my closet. A stylist is good at helping you come up with multiple ways to wear each piece. They can provide you with options that you might not have thought of on your own.

Gets you thinking outside the box. Style rut? No problem. Tell your stylist what you’re hoping to achieve, whether it be mastering a new trend or adding some flair to your neutral-colored wardrobe. Sometimes a stylist can offer up style choices that are new and exciting but still work with your existing wardrobe.

Eliminate unnecessary energy trying to find an item. It’s the worst when you’re looking for something specific and can’t seem to find it anywhere. Your stylist will search high and low for that item in your size and specification. Then all you have to do is show up to try it on. This is incredibly useful when you’re on the hunt for the best of the best.

Stores that offer Personal Shopping Services

Anthropologie. From its well-curated decor and signature Volcano scent; walking into Anthropologie is like a dream. They have clothes for all occasions and I’m a big fan of their jewelry and girly tops.

Banana Republic. They have some of the best sales and most on-trend styles. Stock up on your basics, business casual pieces, and off-duty looks.

J.Crew. My go-to for almost everything. I love their toothpick jeans (I own these in several colors), their jewelry, and their novelty sweaters and blouses. The quality is the best.

Madewell. Sister store to J.Crew. They have a great mix of everyday staples with a twist and the quality is top notch.

Macy’s. I haven’t ventured to Macy’s in quite some time, but they have a massive selection of everything and always have a sale.

Nordstrom. When I think of personal styling services, I always think Nordstrom. They are known for their superior customer service and recently expanded their selection to include J.Crew, BaubleBar, and Loren Hope and many others.

Club Monaco. Beautiful high-quality pieces. Every piece I own from here I have bought with no regrets. It’s all beautiful and well-made.

My Style Suite (WA only). Schedule a style session and they will shop the entire mall prior to your appointment. Simply tell them the occasion you’re shopping for or the look you want to achieve and they do all the hard work for you! All you have to do is show up and have fun and if you decide to purchase anything, you can do it right there.

If you like the idea of personal shopping, but don’t have the time to do it in person, you can always look into online-only options like Stitch Fix as well.

Blouse: Loft (similar) via ThredUp | Jeans: Jag c/o (similar) | Necklace: J.Crew (similar) | Earrings: Ann Taylor (old) | Tote: Anguay Designs (borrowed) | Shoes: Paul Green | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink) | Nail polish: Rooted Woman c/o (color: Favored)

Photo’s by Luba Kochubey Portraits