The next day I received a multi-page PDF Style Memo from DC Style Factory. You can click here to see it; I removed some personal information like my address but left all the content provided by DCSF. This document recapped our session and gave a general idea of what I needed to add to my wardrobe to complete all the looks for the conference.
Two days later, DC Style Factory emailed me a Google Doc with an invite to edit. Because I am so busy, and because I write about online shopping, we chose to not do in-person shopping and for me to place the orders. This doc was an Excel spreadsheet that was separated by event, then columns that had the product description (and sometimes a comment from the stylists explaining why they included it or what they could see it styled with), a hyperlink to the item online, and then a column for me to provide comments. The retailers were all ones that have free shipping and easy and usually free return policies so it wouldn't be hard for me to box up the items I didn't like and send them back.
While there were retailers I know well on the list (hello Nordstrom, ELOQUII, and Boden), there were many I've never tried before, and from the retailers I knew, they chose brands and silhouettes I wouldn't normally consider. Some I clicked on and said, "aw hellz naw," and because I am a fashion blogger, there were a few I clicked on and said, "I've tried that already" or "I know how this brand fits me and this will be too big/too small/just right." Many I clicked on and was intrigued or excited. Some were from brands I had relationships with so I reached out to them to see if they may offer items for free or reduced in exchange for having them featured on the blog and social media. I put a hurting on my credit card ordering all these items, but I knew a huge percentage would be returned, and I had already saved up for this expense so when the bill came in for the remainder I could pay it off. As I ordered items, I highlighted that row on the doc in yellow. I used the comment column to explain why I didn't order or if I was waiting to hear from a brand.
If you follow my InstaStories on Instagram you know my orders have started rolling in. My UPS and FedEx guys are working over time; my mail woman is used to it and when we see her arrive, Karl will go out and carry the boxes from her truck. I've been taking selfies of myself in the items and sharing them with Marisa and Rosana so they know what I've received that is awesome, and what I am immediately returning.
I'll be honest, after my first session I felt... meh. I didn't feel that anything was that revolutionary. Also, the Nic + Zoe two-piece dress was a look I had already considered a last resort for the black tie optional event and it concerned me that they liked it so much while I felt so fat and unstylish in it from the waist up. But then after getting the memo and then the links... I was excited. They really got me, and they get what I wish to achieve. And they did all the online searching for me, saving me so much time and stress. I don't want to be or look like anyone else but me, but I want to be the best me. I want to look good for the conference, but these clothes are for my life beyond the conference, beyond the blog. It's a kickstart for spring, an extension of my current wardrobe, and an update to my existing defined personal style. And while most of the items that have arrived at my front door have been returned, the pieces that I've kept are good. Like mega good, like where have they been all my life good.
My next session is later this week, I look forward to sharing with you the final result of all of this!
- Do your homework. Not all personal stylists are equal, and not all are right for you. Even the one your coworker or best friend used may not be your best bet. Check out their websites, their blogs, their social media channels. Are they styling only 20-something fashionistas? Do they seem to focus on career wear? Do they ever work with plus size women, or older women, or those with special needs or situations? Most stylists have reviews and testimonials, while they of course feature the best ones these are still a great way to get a feel for the stylist and if his or her style will mesh with yours.
- Do your laundry. You want all your clothes clean and accessible. While you're at it, if you keep shoes or your day bag downstairs, bring them up for your session so the stylist gets an accurate gauge of your wardrobe.
- Do your hair and makeup. I was running late that day and had only mascara and air-dried hair. Big regret. Clothes look better when you look better; do your hair and makeup as you would every day, or if it's a special event styling, the way you'd do it for that event.
- Wear clean underwear. Well duh, but I mean wear the bra and undies you have in the best condition, and that are the most versatile. You will have practical strangers digging into the corners of your closet and seeing you practically naked; you'll feel more comfortable if you're in skivvies that don't make you blush.
- Be honest. Let them know when you're not happy, when you're unsure, when you're uncomfortable. Any decent stylist WANTS this feedback, you can't hurt their feelings, this is about your image not their ego. Their success is when you feel great in what you're wearing.