Blog, Stylist 101

The Difference between “In Store Stylists” and an Independent Personal Stylist

White lace bralette and skirt

November 2, 2021

I’m Abby!.
I'm a certified & published fashion stylist located in Silicon Valley with speciality in personal styling, color analysis and runway, commercial, and editorial styling.

A number of brands and stores located in person and online have “in store stylists” or “personal shoppers.” While they may be helpful when shopping in that particular store, they are not Personal Stylists. 

 Tommy Bahama khaki jacket and floral maxi      So what’s the difference?      White lace bralette and skirt

  • Personal Stylists Have a Personal Relationship with You

Personal stylists are certified and have a personal relationship with you that is ongoing; they know your body measurements, the colors that bring out your natural glow, and have styled your major life events such as your maternity shoot. “In store stylists” or “personal shoppers” may have a great resume in retail but are not certified stylists. They meet you online or in store and may see you from time to time but you do not have their undivided attention when working with them. Remember that they work at a store and are responsible for other tasks such as the cash register, fitting room, and getting product out, besides helping you.

While an “in store stylist” may be an expert in the product at their store, a personal stylist is familiar with a variety of brands, designers, in person and online stores, and the latest trends. Personal stylists do not take a “one size fits all” approach. They choose clothing and curate looks from a variety of brands based on your personal style and silhouette. 

  • Personal Stylists Know Your Closet Better than You!

A personal stylist also integrates your existing wardrobe with your new pieces and is able to figure out what is missing in your wardrobe. An “in store personal shopper” may recommend pieces that you already have or don’t fit in with your existing wardrobe.

  • Personal Stylists Go to You

The benefit of working with a personal stylist is that you do not need to go to the mall to see them. They will personally shop for you and hold at-home fittings either in person or virtually; allowing you the opportunity to try on clothing in the comfort of your own home. No need to hassle with mall crowds or annoying online returns either; your personal stylist takes care of this.

  • Personal Stylists Match Your Style with Brands

At the end of the day, it is “in store stylists’” and “in store personal shoppers’” job to sell their product to benefit their store. A personal stylist’s job does not depend on how much clothing you buy. Their job is to make sure you feel confident in your wardrobe and inspire you to communicate who you are to the outside world through your clothing.

↓ Let me know! What have been positives or frustrations of working with “in store stylists”? For more information about what a personal stylist can do for you, check out my site! ↓

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  1. Marie Young says:

    And you create a look book so we know what goes together for our body type!

  2. Benjamin says:

    Love this post! It’s so true and meaningful!
    Also your website content is amazing!

    • Abby Young says:

      Aww thank you so much for taking the time to check out my website, read a blog post, and comment! That means a lot! I am glad that this post resonated with you 🙂 and thank you for the website compliment! I have been working hard on it!

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