How do you define style?
We all have a personal style, whether or not we’re aware of it or have set out to cultivate it. The way we present ourselves sends numerous messages to the people around us, and this includes the way we speak and interact with others in person and through social media as well as what we choose to wear.
As we’re such a visual society, we can’t help but make sub-conscious assumptions about people based on how they present visually. And studies indicate we do this in no more than two seconds. Our assumptions can include things such as occupation, values, interests, how approachable or confident we are and our priorities.
We can impact the messages we’re sending through how we choose to cover and adorn ourselves (or not). Some people do this innately and others are taught. When we see someone we consider looks ‘stylish’ it’s because they know what they stand for and how to express it. The two are congruent.
Refining your personal style doesn’t necessarily mean spending lots of money. It’s about choosing and crafting wisely.
How can I be sure you’re the right image specialist for me?
The rapport between us has to work, doesn’t it? Otherwise you won’t trust the advice I’m giving you. After all, our personal style is, well… personal!
I’m happy to have an initial chat over the phone or online so you can ascertain that I’m the right personal style specialist for you. If you’re nearby we could even meet for a coffee.
do you just work with women?
I work with non-binary people as well as men and women. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients.
Are you going to throw all my clothes out in a wardrobe consultation?
Absolutely not. I detest waste and I trust that you will already have plenty of clothes that work well for you. You may just need advice on how to wear your clothes differently and how to create new outfits from what you already have.
Where you need a new piece to enhance or extend what you already have, I will tell you. I am also likely to make recommendations for upcycling clothes you love elements of but aren’t quite working for you.
Where do you take clients shopping?
It will depend on what you want, like and need. I make no assumptions before understanding that. Options will vary from boutiques who create one-off bespoke pieces, department stores, vintage and consignment stores to local markets.
What kind of budget do I need for clothing?
That will be up to you. I’m a great bargain hunter and I also know where to source high-end designer and bespoke pieces.
Importantly, I don’t advocate buying more clothing just for the sake of it. I’m a big believer in mindful purchasing - that is thinking about what you really need and/or what will work well with your existing wardrobe.
Are you able to customise packages?
Definitely. I pride myself on being client-focused and will work with you to deliver whatever it is that will be of most value. It’s the uniqueness of the people I encounter that I enjoy most so I never assume people want the same thing.
How far in advance do I need to book?
It depends on what you want. Many of my online services and products are available immediately. For most of my in-person consultations you can see when I have availability by checking the booking calendar here.
IS YOUR STUDIO ACCESSIBLE FOR MOBILITY IMPAIRED PEOPLE?
Sadly, it is not. My studio is accessed via stairs. However, if you are mobility impaired, I can see you downstairs - just let me know at the time of booking.
Where do you travel to?
Most appointments are held in my studio in Carlton but for wardrobe consultations I’m happy to travel to most places in the Greater Melbourne and Geelong regions. If there’s a few of you outside these areas who want joint or back to back appointments that can be negotiated too.
Do you do public speaking and image workshops?
I do. I love running workshops and have done so for many years. I’m happy to consider any public speaking proposals. I also have a training background and a current Working with Children check.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes. You can purchase a gift certificate here that can be used for any product or consultation, whether that be in-person or online. If you’d like one for another unique value, contact me and I’ll organise one for you.
What is the average age of your clients?
Tough one. Most private clients are over 35 and under 65, though some are outside this range, and even teenagers. I’d say the average age of a private client is probably 45.
Outside of this, I’ve also worked with groups of young people, aged from around 16 upwards. Some have been university students and others were in the juvenile justice system - all of them embarking on new chapters and wanting advice on how best to present themselves.
Do you receive discounts at certain stores?
No. I prefer not to do this so that you can be sure that any suggestions I have for you are based completely on what I believe will work best for you. Nothing is a bargain if it doesn’t get worn.
are you covid-safe?
Yes, I’m double-vaxed and boosted and the studio is not open to the general public so it’s a low traffic area.
do i need to be double vaxed for covid-19 to work with you?
Yes please, and preferably boosted as well!
what if i can't make my appointment?
You can reschedule your appointment (right up until 24 hours prior) using the link on the initial confirmation email. The system will allow you to select a new date and time from all the available consultation times.
If you need to reschedule less than 24 hours prior, please contact me as soon as possible and I’ll do what I can for you.
If I have travelled to the studio (or elsewhere) especially and you are a no-show, your deposit will be forfeited. My apologies, but the consultation time could have gone to someone else!
Having said that, a crisis is a crisis, and I can understand these.