I love this client because she is enthusiastic. Overly so. She buys every piece she loves from every store without ever thinking about how it plays back into her current wardrobe.
End result?
A fragmented and frustrating set of shitty options. Attempts to mix and match lead to hair pulling and in some cases tears. Yes, tears. I've seen it.
Who doesn't have a pesky problem child that refuses to be matched, that gets pulled out only to be shoved back in the closet? The perfect final touch is always missing: the shoe, bold accessory, or maybe a belt of just so color and texture.
In the last few years of working with clients in a number of ways - from total hand holding to jotting down must-have pieces - I have developed the sure fire recipe for successful shopping.
First...
The List
Carry a well-thought out list of what you need in your purse every season. A word to the wise: there are pieces that have been on my list for two years. They carry over every season when I don't find exactly what I want. For me, it's a perfectly cropped black leather jacket with 3/4 sleeves and that elusively tasteful animal print handbag. These vital additions are so important to my closet, I will wait for the stars to align and right piece to appear.
then...
True Love
Like the right guy, the right piece is out there. Do not settle for "I like it" or you will pay dearly. Only buy things you LOVE. I mean LOVE. Like the "I will think about this piece until I'm 80 if I don't have it right now." There will always be something else. In fact, the most absolutely perfect right thing does exist, you need to be patient until you find it.
When that happens...
Three Amigos
As you hold a garment in your hands, think: do I have three ways to wear this piece with what's already in my closet? Think meaty, main course pieces like pants + sweaters, but also run through shoes, accessories and the right handbag. If you can't think of three, put it back. The time, energy, and money necessary to attain the complementing elements will deter you from ever getting any decent wear from this purchase.
then...
Save or Spurge
Bottom line: spend on classics, save on trends. Burberry trench - buy it for $800. It's built to last and you'll be chic into your 50's and saying "I bought this lovely thing 20 years ago." Some crazy sky scraping stilettos covered in gems and studs - save your hard earned $$$. Check out Steve Madden or Aldo. You'll be storing those heels faster than you can say, "Will this go on sale?"
Almost there...
Slow and steady wins the race
I consult about wardrobes every day. Beware: not every trend, not every designer is for everyone. Be picky. Be selective. Take time. Creating a good wardrobe that inspires you and makes you over-the-moon about getting ready comes from thoughtful and disciplined shopping.
Shop to build, not to fill.
Finally...
Make the purchase and love it to death. But most of all, take care of it. Put it on the right hangers, launder appropriately. Don't leave your prized possessions - investments or otherwise - on the floor where dogs, babies and boyfriends roam.
Happy shopping.
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