Personal style or Professional Image? How to decide between a stylist and an image consultant.
Author: Dulce Covarrubias
Working with professionals like personal stylists or image consultants can have a positive impact on your overall quality of life.
Here we explain the difference between the personal stylist and image consultant.
Image and fashion are related, but they are not the same thing and when it comes to fashion and personal style; there are a lot of different professionals who can help you achieve your desired look.
Two of the most confused professionals are personal stylists and image consultants. While they share some similarities, there are some key differences between the two.
What is a Personal Stylist?
A personal stylist is a fashion professional who works with you to curate a wardrobe that flatters your body type, authentically reflects your style, and meets your lifestyle needs.
Personal stylists can work with you on a one-on-one basis, either in person or online to understand your style profile, style preferences and goals. They can help you with anything from finding the perfect outfit for a special event to revamping your entire wardrobe.
One of the primary roles of a personal stylist is to provide clothing recommendations based on your needs, preferences, or gaps in your wardrobe. They may suggest items or styles that suit your body shape, style profile, and general colour tones, or offer advice on how to mix and match existing pieces in their wardrobe.
Personal stylists may also help you to shop for clothing, either by accompanying you to stores or by providing curated shopping lists for exact items. Personal stylists can also visit you at your home to help you to declutter your wardrobe, or to help you to build new outfits from items you already own.
What is an Image Consultant?
An image consultant on the other hand, is a professional who helps you to develop your personal brand and image.
Clothing and appearance have a powerful impact on both the wearer and all those around them; they can influence behaviour, emotions, and perceptions. An image consultant recognises the importance of projecting a positive and genuine image and works with you to achieve this.
By developing an individualised approach, image consultants will assist you to create a cohesive and effective image that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Differences Between Personal Stylists and Image Consultants
While personal stylists and image consultants share some similarities there are some key differences between the two professions:
Focus: personal stylists focus primarily on fashion and wardrobe related concerns, such as finding the right clothing items and creating outfits that flatter your body shape and style preferences. Image consultants take a more holistic approach, helping you to develop your personal brand and image across multiple areas, including clothing, behaviour, and communication skills.
Goals: A personal stylist can help you to look your best and feel confident in your appearance. An image consultant can help you to develop a personal brand that aligns with your goals and aspirations. This may include developing a professional image that helps you to change or advance your career, or create a strong personal brand for entrepreneurs and influencers.
Scope of services: personal stylists typically provide services such a as wardrobe consultations, personal shopping, and outfit creation. Image consultants may offer these services as well but they also provide services such as personal branding, communication training and etiquette coaching.
Clientele: Personal stylists primarily work with individuals who are looking to improve their personal style and wardrobe. Image consultants may work with individuals as well, but they also work with organisations to help develop their brand and image.
Which one do you need?
The choice between a personal stylist and an image consultant depends on your needs and goals. If you’re primarily looking to update your wardrobe and create a fashionable and functional look, a personal stylist may be the right choice for you. They can help you find the perfect pieces to suit your body type, style preferences and lifestyle needs.
If you are looking to improve your overall image and personal branding, an image consultant may be the better option. They can provide guidance on everything from your wardrobe and grooming to your body language, communication skills and social etiquette. They can help you present yourself in the best possible light in a variety of settings, whether you’re at work, socialising with friends or attending a special event.
It’s worth noting that some personal stylists also offer image consulting services and vice versa.
Benefits of Hiring a Personal Stylist or Image Consultant
Whether you choose to work with a personal stylist or an image consultant, there are many benefits to working with a professional to improve your style and image. Here we list some of the key advantages:
You save time and money: by working with a professional, you can avoid costly fashion mistakes and wasted time searching for the right clothing and accessories. A personal stylist or image consultant can help you make smart purchases that will last for years.
Boost your confidence: When you feel and look your best, you’re more likely to feel confident and empowered in all areas of your life.
Improve your personal brand: Whether you’re a business or sales professional, a public figure, or just looking to improve your social presence, a personal stylist or image consultant can help you present yourself in a way that aligns with your goals and values, making a positive impression on others.
Learn valuable style and grooming tips: working with a professional can help you develop your own sense of style and learn valuable tricks and tips for dressing for different occasions.
Stay up to date: personal stylists and image consultants are experts in the fashion industry and can help you stay current with the latest trends and help you work out what trends work best for your body type, lifestyle, skin tone and personal style.
Whether you choose a personal stylist or an image consultant, working with a Spree with Me professional can help you to transform your style and image in a meaningful way. Ultimately, investing in yourself and your image can have positive impact on your career, your relationships, your personal confidence and self-esteem, and your overall quality of life.