How can I make my time with a Nordstrom personal shopper awesome? Also, what is a reasonable budget for a quality work wardrobe?
August 17, 2012 10:48 AM Subscribe
I'm meeting with one of Nordstrom's personal stylists tomorrow to update my work wardrobe. It needs a pretty serious overhaul. How can I make the best use of this time? How much should I budget for this trip?
I'm up for a promotion at work (yay!), but my boss gave me some feedback that my self-presentation is not as professional as it should be. I had been thinking that was the case, but getting that direct feedback has lit a fire under me on the issue. My work environment (a hospital in the southern U.S.) is not business casual, but highly-placed women do not wear suits all the time (more a mix of suits, professional separates, and dresses).
My wardrobe right now is a lot of cheap pieces from Target, Old Navy and the ever-classy Dress Barn - mostly slacks and sweaters. I have a few decent pieces, but this will be an almost total reboot. Both my boss and my husband suggested I get professional help doing this, hence the visit with the Nordstrom personal stylist. Because I've been buying cheap clothes, I don't know how much I should plan to spend: $1,000? $2,000? Less? More?
My current crappy wardrobe is a result of my general dislike of and lack of skill with shopping more than lack of funds.
What else can I do to make this visit as productive as possible? Do these stylists get tips?
I'm a woman in my mid-30s.
I'm up for a promotion at work (yay!), but my boss gave me some feedback that my self-presentation is not as professional as it should be. I had been thinking that was the case, but getting that direct feedback has lit a fire under me on the issue. My work environment (a hospital in the southern U.S.) is not business casual, but highly-placed women do not wear suits all the time (more a mix of suits, professional separates, and dresses).
My wardrobe right now is a lot of cheap pieces from Target, Old Navy and the ever-classy Dress Barn - mostly slacks and sweaters. I have a few decent pieces, but this will be an almost total reboot. Both my boss and my husband suggested I get professional help doing this, hence the visit with the Nordstrom personal stylist. Because I've been buying cheap clothes, I don't know how much I should plan to spend: $1,000? $2,000? Less? More?
My current crappy wardrobe is a result of my general dislike of and lack of skill with shopping more than lack of funds.
What else can I do to make this visit as productive as possible? Do these stylists get tips?
I'm a woman in my mid-30s.
How exciting! Suits and suit separates at Nordstrom can be very expensive, so 1 or 2k isn't far off the mark. But look, if money isn't an issue (you lucky duck), I would show up at Nordstrom with 5k and not think about it again for a long time (except for replacements and seasonal pieces here and there). Get shoes, bras, belts, a bag, the whole nine yards. Tell the consultant to hook you up with all the staple pieces, dark blazer, pencil skirt, tailored pants, a sheath dress or two. Then get a couple of colorful tops. It sounds like a full suit would be a good idea for you too. Tell him/her to make it simple for you- things should all mix and match as much as possible and so you can maximize use. Heck, have her write an outfit plan for you if you are really that clueless.
I'm a cheap bastard, so I would spend 500 ish but try on everything and get a feel for what's good on me, and then I would shop around for better deals (better deals on quality clothes, not cheap replications). Ive gotten a brand new theory suit with tags from a second hand store for $50, and TONS of Tahari suits from Filene's Basement and Syms (RIP) for $79. Then again, if you hate shopping and have loads of money, this is a terrible idea.
Go crazy! I'm jealous.
posted by murfed13 at 11:03 AM on August 17, 2012 [8 favorites]
I'm a cheap bastard, so I would spend 500 ish but try on everything and get a feel for what's good on me, and then I would shop around for better deals (better deals on quality clothes, not cheap replications). Ive gotten a brand new theory suit with tags from a second hand store for $50, and TONS of Tahari suits from Filene's Basement and Syms (RIP) for $79. Then again, if you hate shopping and have loads of money, this is a terrible idea.
Go crazy! I'm jealous.
posted by murfed13 at 11:03 AM on August 17, 2012 [8 favorites]
Seconding Monkey Toes: go an hour early, and start by getting yourself new, well-fitted bras with their assistance. Budget about $80/bra for this.
I recently read a fantastic strategy for trying on clothes that I think would be really perfect for you, with your description of your general dislike of shopping, which is here. The meat of the advice is to put on the clothes with your back to the mirror, decide if you think they're comfortable, and only then look in the mirror and decide whether you think the items are flattering. This re-focuses your attention on what feels good, first and foremost, and I've found that this mindset has left me buying far fewer things that look cute but never actually get worn, because I don't feel good in them.
I would recommend that you buy a lot of mix-and-matchable stuff, and go ahead and take pictures of each outfit while you're there with the stylist. Include each variation, with belts/shoes/etc all together, that you can refer to in two or three weeks, to remind you of what you come up with.
posted by amelioration at 11:07 AM on August 17, 2012 [8 favorites]
I recently read a fantastic strategy for trying on clothes that I think would be really perfect for you, with your description of your general dislike of shopping, which is here. The meat of the advice is to put on the clothes with your back to the mirror, decide if you think they're comfortable, and only then look in the mirror and decide whether you think the items are flattering. This re-focuses your attention on what feels good, first and foremost, and I've found that this mindset has left me buying far fewer things that look cute but never actually get worn, because I don't feel good in them.
I would recommend that you buy a lot of mix-and-matchable stuff, and go ahead and take pictures of each outfit while you're there with the stylist. Include each variation, with belts/shoes/etc all together, that you can refer to in two or three weeks, to remind you of what you come up with.
posted by amelioration at 11:07 AM on August 17, 2012 [8 favorites]
Response by poster: High-quality, well-fitted bras are the one clothes-related thing I have spent money on. It is not uncommon for my bra to cost as much as the rest of my outfit combined. As a fairly busty woman I got the gospel of the good bra a while ago.
posted by jeoc at 11:11 AM on August 17, 2012 [5 favorites]
posted by jeoc at 11:11 AM on August 17, 2012 [5 favorites]
Think about the following before you go and be upfront about these points with the stylist:
- What level of clothing maintenance are you willing to do? Higher end professional clothing tends to be dry clean only, are you okay with that? How about handwash only? Don't be talked into spending $150 on a cardigan you will end up destroying because its too fussy to keep clean. Accept that you may have to spend more time on laundry or trips to the cleaners when you upgrade.
- Do you have any favorite colors, fabrics, details? It's okay if you don't, let the stylist make some recommendations, but let her know if pink or pleating is a dealbreaker, for example.
- Are there any special considerations because of the hospital dress code?
- Do you already have nice, real leather, work appropriate shoes? Yes? Bring them with you. No? Plan to spend $300+ on at least two pairs, one in black and one in brown/grey/subtle metallic.
- $2K is barely going to get you a suit, two blouses, and one pair of shoes. Might want to budget for more or wait on the suit, stick to separates and a dress.
- Tailoring is key, especially if you go for the suit. The stylist will make sure that you get the best possible fit, but even then things will probably need a hem or sleeve adjustment, etc. Don't use Nordstrom's in house service, get the best local tailor you can find. Take them a list of what needs to be done to each item. Make that list as you shop.
posted by slow graffiti at 11:19 AM on August 17, 2012 [5 favorites]
- What level of clothing maintenance are you willing to do? Higher end professional clothing tends to be dry clean only, are you okay with that? How about handwash only? Don't be talked into spending $150 on a cardigan you will end up destroying because its too fussy to keep clean. Accept that you may have to spend more time on laundry or trips to the cleaners when you upgrade.
- Do you have any favorite colors, fabrics, details? It's okay if you don't, let the stylist make some recommendations, but let her know if pink or pleating is a dealbreaker, for example.
- Are there any special considerations because of the hospital dress code?
- Do you already have nice, real leather, work appropriate shoes? Yes? Bring them with you. No? Plan to spend $300+ on at least two pairs, one in black and one in brown/grey/subtle metallic.
- $2K is barely going to get you a suit, two blouses, and one pair of shoes. Might want to budget for more or wait on the suit, stick to separates and a dress.
- Tailoring is key, especially if you go for the suit. The stylist will make sure that you get the best possible fit, but even then things will probably need a hem or sleeve adjustment, etc. Don't use Nordstrom's in house service, get the best local tailor you can find. Take them a list of what needs to be done to each item. Make that list as you shop.
posted by slow graffiti at 11:19 AM on August 17, 2012 [5 favorites]
I have an ex-wife that did this. I would plan on $4,000 to $6,000 if you are doing a total hat to shoes reboot.
What happens if you buy all this and don't get the promotion?
posted by JohnnyGunn at 11:22 AM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
What happens if you buy all this and don't get the promotion?
posted by JohnnyGunn at 11:22 AM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
One more idea: bring whatever nice pieces you currently have and want to keep with you as well. That way you can find more things that go with them and it will give the stylist a jumping off point for your taste.
posted by slow graffiti at 11:27 AM on August 17, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by slow graffiti at 11:27 AM on August 17, 2012 [1 favorite]
pencil skirt, tailored pants, a sheath dress or two
Check whether pencil skirts or sheath dresses actually look good on you. On most women, pencil skirts really don't look good, especially if they are a little shorter (above the knee). Sheath dresses are very hit and miss. I would hope that the stylist would direct you away from fashionable but unflattering cuts, but you can never tell.
posted by jb at 11:28 AM on August 17, 2012
Check whether pencil skirts or sheath dresses actually look good on you. On most women, pencil skirts really don't look good, especially if they are a little shorter (above the knee). Sheath dresses are very hit and miss. I would hope that the stylist would direct you away from fashionable but unflattering cuts, but you can never tell.
posted by jb at 11:28 AM on August 17, 2012
I don't know how much I should plan to spend: $1,000? $2,000?
At Nordstrom? I'd be surprised if you got out of there for less than twice that. Place is expensive. I have one blazer from there, and on clearance, it was like $400-500. You're unlikely to get a suit for all that much under $1,000, and $1,500 is entirely plausible. Throw in coordinates and shows and you're at $2,000, easy. That's one outfit. Doing your entire wardrobe is going to be way, more than that.
posted by valkyryn at 11:43 AM on August 17, 2012
At Nordstrom? I'd be surprised if you got out of there for less than twice that. Place is expensive. I have one blazer from there, and on clearance, it was like $400-500. You're unlikely to get a suit for all that much under $1,000, and $1,500 is entirely plausible. Throw in coordinates and shows and you're at $2,000, easy. That's one outfit. Doing your entire wardrobe is going to be way, more than that.
posted by valkyryn at 11:43 AM on August 17, 2012
Honestly, it depends on the area. They stock more or less expensive items according to geography. The Nordstrom near me is pretty crappy, I usually can get 3 dresses for under 500.
posted by murfed13 at 11:47 AM on August 17, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by murfed13 at 11:47 AM on August 17, 2012 [1 favorite]
I did this same thing with a Nordstrom person in my mid-30s, too. It's a great investment in yourself. The stylists should have asked you what sorts of clothes you need by now and will pull some off the shelves for you today. You will arrive to find a vast array of tops, suits, slacks and so on.
To start from scratch, you should plan to spend a couple thousand and plan to meet with the stylist again quarterly for a year or so to hit all the seasons, you know, to add a nice rain coat or some summer-weight blazers.
The stylist should help you mix and match separates. One thing that would be very helpful beforehand would be to assess your collection of tops and tanks. Are there any nice, simple shirts you could upgrade as shells under blazers or jackets? Are they new or worn and stained? What colors do you have?
At the time I bought from Nordstroms, tailoring was included in the cost of full-price items and your stylist may be able to negotiate something for you with sales items. I would not necessarily recommend taking the clothes somewhere else. They are usually willing to work with you, especially if you set the expectation that you'll work with them over a period of time.
Also, brace yourself to spend a lot of time and to feel great when you leave.
Also, do not necessarily expect to take very items home with you and wear them on Monday. You will need to get slacks altered and that takes time. Plan to roll out your new wardrobe right after Labor Day.
Your stylist should know that you are just starting out and that you want to maximize the bang for your buck this time. She should work with you to find fantastic-looking sales items.
Don't forget, you'll probably need better shoes, too. And belts. You can arrange to select some of these items when you pick up your altered clothing. You can make a day of it and get your hair done, too!
Have fun! It's a fabulous experience that you'll remember for years!
Congratulations on your promotion!
posted by rw at 11:48 AM on August 17, 2012 [3 favorites]
To start from scratch, you should plan to spend a couple thousand and plan to meet with the stylist again quarterly for a year or so to hit all the seasons, you know, to add a nice rain coat or some summer-weight blazers.
The stylist should help you mix and match separates. One thing that would be very helpful beforehand would be to assess your collection of tops and tanks. Are there any nice, simple shirts you could upgrade as shells under blazers or jackets? Are they new or worn and stained? What colors do you have?
At the time I bought from Nordstroms, tailoring was included in the cost of full-price items and your stylist may be able to negotiate something for you with sales items. I would not necessarily recommend taking the clothes somewhere else. They are usually willing to work with you, especially if you set the expectation that you'll work with them over a period of time.
Also, brace yourself to spend a lot of time and to feel great when you leave.
Also, do not necessarily expect to take very items home with you and wear them on Monday. You will need to get slacks altered and that takes time. Plan to roll out your new wardrobe right after Labor Day.
Your stylist should know that you are just starting out and that you want to maximize the bang for your buck this time. She should work with you to find fantastic-looking sales items.
Don't forget, you'll probably need better shoes, too. And belts. You can arrange to select some of these items when you pick up your altered clothing. You can make a day of it and get your hair done, too!
Have fun! It's a fabulous experience that you'll remember for years!
Congratulations on your promotion!
posted by rw at 11:48 AM on August 17, 2012 [3 favorites]
Go through your closet and pull out all the stuff that you think you CAN use/still wear and take pictures (cell phone is fine, 2-3 garments per pic fine too) and bring that with you so you can get some things that match...if this promotion isnt in the bag, i wouldnt spend more than $1000... You can always go back later...also, you might add $500 for a trip to macys...it will go further there and they have LOTS of sales...
posted by sexyrobot at 11:51 AM on August 17, 2012
posted by sexyrobot at 11:51 AM on August 17, 2012
Response by poster: Not to thread-sit, but I'll be shopping in Durham, NC. Not exactly the highest-end market.
I'm interim in the position, so getting the final job is probable but not certain. My presentation was identified as something that could hold me back. So even if this doesn't pan out, I think it will help me be considered for other opportunities in the future if I improve in this area. Thanks for all the answers and insight! Very helpful!
posted by jeoc at 11:55 AM on August 17, 2012 [3 favorites]
I'm interim in the position, so getting the final job is probable but not certain. My presentation was identified as something that could hold me back. So even if this doesn't pan out, I think it will help me be considered for other opportunities in the future if I improve in this area. Thanks for all the answers and insight! Very helpful!
posted by jeoc at 11:55 AM on August 17, 2012 [3 favorites]
I know what you mean, Jeoc. Also my experience - it was an investment in my possible opportunities. After a bit, you'll feel better going to Nordies on your own -- and Nordstrom Rack.
This time out, you'll probably get a lot of what seem like low-key rather boring pieces we know as "the basics" in neutral colors. Over time, you can add more fun pieces. Expect to come out with a rather muted palette.
The job growth opportunities are the catalyst, but remember when you fork over your credit card, you're doing this for you!
For me, it was worth it.
posted by rw at 12:02 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
This time out, you'll probably get a lot of what seem like low-key rather boring pieces we know as "the basics" in neutral colors. Over time, you can add more fun pieces. Expect to come out with a rather muted palette.
The job growth opportunities are the catalyst, but remember when you fork over your credit card, you're doing this for you!
For me, it was worth it.
posted by rw at 12:02 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
If I were you, I'd invest a few classic, basic, higher quality pieces at Nordstrom that fit you PERFECTLY (a black pencil skirt, a button-down blouse in a pretty color, a lightweight fitted blazer, a comfortable but versatile pair of heels in a neutral color) and then use the Nordstrom stylist's advice to find similar pieces at a lower price point elsewhere. I am often complimented on my work outfits, but my work clothes are mostly from H&M, JCrew outlet and the Ann Taylor Loft sales rack. Looking neat and professional (and cute!) at work doesn't have to cost you thousands of dollars. Use the stylist to figure out what kinds of styles and shapes work best on you, snag some nice foundational pieces that will last awhile, and then go bargain hunting.
posted by blackcatcuriouser at 12:12 PM on August 17, 2012 [6 favorites]
posted by blackcatcuriouser at 12:12 PM on August 17, 2012 [6 favorites]
Strictly on budget: Nordstrom has a variety of lines at a variety of price points; my advice would be to identify what you can spend, and focus more on coming out with a few items and a set of useful guidelines than on The Right Clothes Right Now.
posted by chesty_a_arthur at 12:24 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
posted by chesty_a_arthur at 12:24 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
I would let her show you the basics, buy a few key pieces, and then go elsewhere to bulk up your new wardrobe. Ann Taylor and Loft are my keys for work clothing.
posted by something something at 12:37 PM on August 17, 2012
posted by something something at 12:37 PM on August 17, 2012
On the Nordstrom site, if you click on 'women' and then on 'skirts' (or any other category), up near the top left of the page there'll be a link for 'Skirts under $100.' It's a much less frustrating way to get the lay of the land before visiting the store. Later on you might want to pay more for certain things that you can wear for years, but right now you're figuring out your preferences, and the moderately priced clothes can be of good quality.
posted by wryly at 12:43 PM on August 17, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by wryly at 12:43 PM on August 17, 2012 [1 favorite]
jeoc, your boss has done you a huge favor, and you're an ace for not taking offence.
Honey, Dress Barn = image death! As you will soon learn under the wing of your personal stylist.
She'll show you how to seek out quality, well-made garments, and she'll probably talk about cost-per-wear; the concept that the more often you wear an item, the less expensive it becomes per wear.
Yes! to all the bra-fitting advice above, and don't flinch at the price. This is a re-boot not only of your wardrobe, but your style parameters.
I'm rooting for you!
posted by BostonTerrier at 12:53 PM on August 17, 2012
Honey, Dress Barn = image death! As you will soon learn under the wing of your personal stylist.
She'll show you how to seek out quality, well-made garments, and she'll probably talk about cost-per-wear; the concept that the more often you wear an item, the less expensive it becomes per wear.
Yes! to all the bra-fitting advice above, and don't flinch at the price. This is a re-boot not only of your wardrobe, but your style parameters.
I'm rooting for you!
posted by BostonTerrier at 12:53 PM on August 17, 2012
The one thing I will say about Nordstrom personal shoppers is this: You can't let them take advantage of you. I went to Nordstrom and told the lady that I wanted a moderately priced, conservative, dark suit. She came back with things in the $900 range. I said thank you, but this won't work for me and started to leave. She came back with a $300 black pant suit. I paid another $50 or so dollars to have it tailored. It looks great. I do not think that any of the $900 would have been worth it.
If you can, try and catch some episodes of What not to Wear. They have great recommendations for how a suit should fit you.
posted by bananafish at 1:03 PM on August 17, 2012 [3 favorites]
If you can, try and catch some episodes of What not to Wear. They have great recommendations for how a suit should fit you.
posted by bananafish at 1:03 PM on August 17, 2012 [3 favorites]
Nordstrom is THE place for a bra fitting. So go early and get that taken care of.
They have crisp tailored blouses there under the Foxcroft brand. They look amazing and are machine washable, no iron. Buy as many as you can carry away.
Separates are going to be your best bet. Be super-honest with the consultant about your budget. And get lots of things to mix and match. Scarves will help keep things colorful, without having to invest in a fuchia suit.
I do recommend the Cole-Haan/Nike Air pumps. Especially if you're walking around a lot on hard surfaces. You'll pay around $200 to $300 a pair, but your feet will thank you.
Remember to do make up and hair as well. We tend to fossilize our look when we thought we were hot. (That was 1984 for me, so pity me!) Cut and color can do a world of good. You don't even have to spend a fortune, I get my hair done at the Aveda Institute for $20. The instructors will be sure you get out of there looking good. If there's a high-end salon you like, go there.
I'm so excited for you, you'll be amazed at how this will change how people perceive you and how you carry yourself!
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 1:18 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
They have crisp tailored blouses there under the Foxcroft brand. They look amazing and are machine washable, no iron. Buy as many as you can carry away.
Separates are going to be your best bet. Be super-honest with the consultant about your budget. And get lots of things to mix and match. Scarves will help keep things colorful, without having to invest in a fuchia suit.
I do recommend the Cole-Haan/Nike Air pumps. Especially if you're walking around a lot on hard surfaces. You'll pay around $200 to $300 a pair, but your feet will thank you.
Remember to do make up and hair as well. We tend to fossilize our look when we thought we were hot. (That was 1984 for me, so pity me!) Cut and color can do a world of good. You don't even have to spend a fortune, I get my hair done at the Aveda Institute for $20. The instructors will be sure you get out of there looking good. If there's a high-end salon you like, go there.
I'm so excited for you, you'll be amazed at how this will change how people perceive you and how you carry yourself!
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 1:18 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
If you have a Nordstrom credit card or debit card (yes, they do that, it's awesome), tailoring is free. On any item. So I'd highly recommend going ahead and doing that while you're there. (They'll probably try to upsell you on it anyway.) I can't remember if Nordstrom does the "x% off the first time you use your card" thing, but if they do, take advantage of that, too, to stretch your dollars further.
posted by devinemissk at 1:43 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
posted by devinemissk at 1:43 PM on August 17, 2012 [2 favorites]
Talk to the stylist about your different layering options, because summer in the south is HOT + southern office air conditioning is COLD, and you'll go back and forth among the two.
If there are a few pieces you like but hesitate over the high price, write down all the tag information--designer, style number, color, size, material, everything--and use it to check online sources. You may be able to find it on Nordstrom's website for cheaper with coupon codes, sales, cashback, etc. or find it on eBay sold "NWT/new with tags." You can also read reviews to see if other women have complaints about the piece.
Do not do this with everything: your shopper is likely being paid by commission, and it's a jerkass move to use their expertise and then take all your money elsewhere. And don't do it with pieces you LOVE, because you may not find them online cheaper or at all, and it's worth committing to the $$$ to walk out with clothes you're really excited about. A bird in the hand > two in the bush. (Then you can look online for backup doubles.)
Also, if while working with this stylist you don't feel s/he is clicking with your needs and style, it's okay to wrap up the appointment and then call back to ask to meet with a different stylist for brainstorming.
Super jealous of your fun shopping trip! I'm curious what shiny things you'll bring home.
posted by nicebookrack at 2:18 PM on August 17, 2012
If there are a few pieces you like but hesitate over the high price, write down all the tag information--designer, style number, color, size, material, everything--and use it to check online sources. You may be able to find it on Nordstrom's website for cheaper with coupon codes, sales, cashback, etc. or find it on eBay sold "NWT/new with tags." You can also read reviews to see if other women have complaints about the piece.
Do not do this with everything: your shopper is likely being paid by commission, and it's a jerkass move to use their expertise and then take all your money elsewhere. And don't do it with pieces you LOVE, because you may not find them online cheaper or at all, and it's worth committing to the $$$ to walk out with clothes you're really excited about. A bird in the hand > two in the bush. (Then you can look online for backup doubles.)
Also, if while working with this stylist you don't feel s/he is clicking with your needs and style, it's okay to wrap up the appointment and then call back to ask to meet with a different stylist for brainstorming.
Super jealous of your fun shopping trip! I'm curious what shiny things you'll bring home.
posted by nicebookrack at 2:18 PM on August 17, 2012
I don't have suggestions as I've never done this, but I should! Can you come back after your appointment and let us know how it went and what you liked and didn't like about it?
posted by cecic at 2:28 PM on August 17, 2012 [5 favorites]
posted by cecic at 2:28 PM on August 17, 2012 [5 favorites]
".....(a hospital in the southern U.S.) is not business casual, but highly-placed women do not wear suits all the time (more a mix of suits, professional separates, and dresses)."
If it were me, I would start with a mini-overhaul. I would aim for one classic suit, and a dress. Maybe some shoes. If budget is not a concern, you can have the stylist help with blouses to go with the suit. Test the waters. If you like everything, go back for another round with the stylist. DVF (Diane von Furstenberg) wrap dresses are carried by Nordstroms. Pricy, but nothing says promotion like one of those.
All the sales clerks at Nordstroms get commission.
posted by nanook at 6:33 PM on August 17, 2012
If it were me, I would start with a mini-overhaul. I would aim for one classic suit, and a dress. Maybe some shoes. If budget is not a concern, you can have the stylist help with blouses to go with the suit. Test the waters. If you like everything, go back for another round with the stylist. DVF (Diane von Furstenberg) wrap dresses are carried by Nordstroms. Pricy, but nothing says promotion like one of those.
All the sales clerks at Nordstroms get commission.
posted by nanook at 6:33 PM on August 17, 2012
Just a note about Cole Haan shoes - they have 40% off sales a few times a year, so if you're interested just get on a mailing list.
posted by belau at 12:35 PM on August 18, 2012
posted by belau at 12:35 PM on August 18, 2012
My primary job is with a hospital system. Suits wouldn't fly in my office unless it was for a presentation to the Board or a key client. Women wear business dresses, skirts with sweater sets, blouses with jackets or scarves, and nice but understated jewelry. The sweet spot you're trying to hit with Nordstroms is "not as formal as gray suit banking, but not as informal as khaki trousers and golf shirts." Nordstroms will absolutely be able to accomplish that goal.
How are your hair and nails? Part of the professional look is simple, stylish hair and well manicured but not fake nails. Fake nail tolerance may be a regional/medical variation since many hospitals don't allow fake nails for staff.
Good luck!
posted by 26.2 at 1:14 PM on August 18, 2012
How are your hair and nails? Part of the professional look is simple, stylish hair and well manicured but not fake nails. Fake nail tolerance may be a regional/medical variation since many hospitals don't allow fake nails for staff.
Good luck!
posted by 26.2 at 1:14 PM on August 18, 2012
Response by poster: Reporting back in as requested.
First, I want to note that I DO know how to dress myself. I have a good sense of style and what works with my body (due in no small part to watching many episodes of What Not to Wear). I just find the process of going through the racks and trying stuff on boring and often frustrating. I was buying cheap clothes because it was just easier (I'm already in Target buying toothpaste, Dress Barn is right next door, etc.) and lower-stakes (if something isn't perfect but it's only $30, then it is good enough).
I was hoping the personal shopper would be able to take some of the drudgery and frustration out of the process. I wasn't looking for transformation so much as efficiency.
All that said, it was mostly a waste of time. I don't know if the stylist was clueless or if she was hamstrung by the selection in the store (probably a combination of both). Despite the fact that I told them when I scheduled that I'm full-busted hourglass shape (which makes fitting jackets and tops challenging), the stylist pulled a lot of single-button blazers and boxy tops. Even when I got there and put on a single-button blazer to show her why they are not a good look for me, she wasn't able to adjust. She kept bringing boxy blouses and single-button blazers. It seemed like this was what was in stock. Strangely, the store didn't seem to have a lot of the work basics I was looking for. No classic professional dresses (classic sheath dress? nope! wrap dress? nope! But here's a knit, color-blocked, mod-style shift dress!), few classic trousers (no, I'm not going to wear skinny ankle pants to work). She wasn't even able to show me a complete suit in my size ("here's a jacket 2 sizes too large and a skirt a size too small, but we can order the right sizes!").
She didn't seem at all interested or capable of looking at my body type and making recommendations for styles based on that. If I truly didn't know how to dress myself I would have been completely lost.
So, some recommendations if you are thinking about doing this...
Make a recon trip to the Nordstrom to see what they are stocking. The stylist should be able to find things you might miss, but if they aren't carrying anything like what you need, she can't conjure it out of thin air. Second, don't go in expecting some sort of princess-y transformative experience. That would have been a huge let down. I wish I knew how to scope out the stylist ahead of time. I didn't speak with mine ahead of time (I spoke with the stylist manager). Maybe that would have helped?
I headed to Banana Republic and Ann Taylor and found a lot of great stuff (particularly at Ann Taylor). The regular sales clerks there were more helpful than the "stylist" at Nordstrom.
posted by jeoc at 10:26 AM on August 19, 2012 [5 favorites]
First, I want to note that I DO know how to dress myself. I have a good sense of style and what works with my body (due in no small part to watching many episodes of What Not to Wear). I just find the process of going through the racks and trying stuff on boring and often frustrating. I was buying cheap clothes because it was just easier (I'm already in Target buying toothpaste, Dress Barn is right next door, etc.) and lower-stakes (if something isn't perfect but it's only $30, then it is good enough).
I was hoping the personal shopper would be able to take some of the drudgery and frustration out of the process. I wasn't looking for transformation so much as efficiency.
All that said, it was mostly a waste of time. I don't know if the stylist was clueless or if she was hamstrung by the selection in the store (probably a combination of both). Despite the fact that I told them when I scheduled that I'm full-busted hourglass shape (which makes fitting jackets and tops challenging), the stylist pulled a lot of single-button blazers and boxy tops. Even when I got there and put on a single-button blazer to show her why they are not a good look for me, she wasn't able to adjust. She kept bringing boxy blouses and single-button blazers. It seemed like this was what was in stock. Strangely, the store didn't seem to have a lot of the work basics I was looking for. No classic professional dresses (classic sheath dress? nope! wrap dress? nope! But here's a knit, color-blocked, mod-style shift dress!), few classic trousers (no, I'm not going to wear skinny ankle pants to work). She wasn't even able to show me a complete suit in my size ("here's a jacket 2 sizes too large and a skirt a size too small, but we can order the right sizes!").
She didn't seem at all interested or capable of looking at my body type and making recommendations for styles based on that. If I truly didn't know how to dress myself I would have been completely lost.
So, some recommendations if you are thinking about doing this...
Make a recon trip to the Nordstrom to see what they are stocking. The stylist should be able to find things you might miss, but if they aren't carrying anything like what you need, she can't conjure it out of thin air. Second, don't go in expecting some sort of princess-y transformative experience. That would have been a huge let down. I wish I knew how to scope out the stylist ahead of time. I didn't speak with mine ahead of time (I spoke with the stylist manager). Maybe that would have helped?
I headed to Banana Republic and Ann Taylor and found a lot of great stuff (particularly at Ann Taylor). The regular sales clerks there were more helpful than the "stylist" at Nordstrom.
posted by jeoc at 10:26 AM on August 19, 2012 [5 favorites]
I'm bummed for you.
I'm also the same basic shape as you are. Like you, I have very good luck at Ann Taylor (but not at Ann Taylor loft which is cut for a junior silhouette). Here are the stores that consistently work for me:
Talbots - don't be put off by the more frumpy stuff. Lots of classic trousers, skirts and sweaters. Plus, their sizing is consistent across garments which makes shopping there easy.
Macy's - The upscale Macy's have a good career section with a lot of basics. (Lower end Macy's not so much.)
(BTW I also sometimes grab something at Target, because I'm there. Now that you pointed that out, I'm going to stop that!)
posted by 26.2 at 8:52 AM on August 20, 2012
I'm also the same basic shape as you are. Like you, I have very good luck at Ann Taylor (but not at Ann Taylor loft which is cut for a junior silhouette). Here are the stores that consistently work for me:
Talbots - don't be put off by the more frumpy stuff. Lots of classic trousers, skirts and sweaters. Plus, their sizing is consistent across garments which makes shopping there easy.
Macy's - The upscale Macy's have a good career section with a lot of basics. (Lower end Macy's not so much.)
(BTW I also sometimes grab something at Target, because I'm there. Now that you pointed that out, I'm going to stop that!)
posted by 26.2 at 8:52 AM on August 20, 2012
Response by poster: Final update!
I ended up hiring a stylist to go shopping with me - I was just too overwhelmed to figure this out by myself. This was expensive but very helpful. The stylist and I didn't "click" - I wouldn't use her again. She kind of made me feel bad about my taste and my appearance and fuck THAT noise - but I did learn some valuable things, some of which are enumerated below for the edification of other MeFites.
1. Pick a color family and stick with it. I had this idea that I had to have a wide variety of colors in my wardrobe, so I would buy things that ended up not matching anything else. The stylist recommended I pick a set of related colors and buy everything in those colors so things would work well together. I now have a wardrobe of blues, greens, teals, purples, blacks and greys. Just about everything works well together in many different combinations.
2. Try stuff outside of your comfort zone. The stylist really challenged me to try some things I normally wouldn't wear. Some were hard NOs for me, but some others I turned out to like. And having to discuss why I did or didn't like what I was wearing helped me figure out with more precision what I do like so I can more easily look for it.
3. Shopping is hard for everyone, and takes a long time. Even with her expertise, it was not easy to find good pieces for me. This was partially due to what's in fashion right now (chest pockets are not my friends), but I think it is just hard work to find good clothes.
4. The Limited carries professional clothes, fairly reasonably priced. I don't know why I didn't know that, but I thought they were like Forever 21 or something.
5. Department stores are kind of a wasteland for building a young professional wardrobe. Maybe this is just my area of the country.
Also, I got the promotion.
posted by jeoc at 12:44 PM on February 1, 2013 [8 favorites]
I ended up hiring a stylist to go shopping with me - I was just too overwhelmed to figure this out by myself. This was expensive but very helpful. The stylist and I didn't "click" - I wouldn't use her again. She kind of made me feel bad about my taste and my appearance and fuck THAT noise - but I did learn some valuable things, some of which are enumerated below for the edification of other MeFites.
1. Pick a color family and stick with it. I had this idea that I had to have a wide variety of colors in my wardrobe, so I would buy things that ended up not matching anything else. The stylist recommended I pick a set of related colors and buy everything in those colors so things would work well together. I now have a wardrobe of blues, greens, teals, purples, blacks and greys. Just about everything works well together in many different combinations.
2. Try stuff outside of your comfort zone. The stylist really challenged me to try some things I normally wouldn't wear. Some were hard NOs for me, but some others I turned out to like. And having to discuss why I did or didn't like what I was wearing helped me figure out with more precision what I do like so I can more easily look for it.
3. Shopping is hard for everyone, and takes a long time. Even with her expertise, it was not easy to find good pieces for me. This was partially due to what's in fashion right now (chest pockets are not my friends), but I think it is just hard work to find good clothes.
4. The Limited carries professional clothes, fairly reasonably priced. I don't know why I didn't know that, but I thought they were like Forever 21 or something.
5. Department stores are kind of a wasteland for building a young professional wardrobe. Maybe this is just my area of the country.
Also, I got the promotion.
posted by jeoc at 12:44 PM on February 1, 2013 [8 favorites]
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