Accentuating and minimizing
“Fit is key to dressing any client because often they need help with the areas of their bodies they need to accentuate and minimize. It really depends on the style of the garment when it comes to fit. For example, if the desired look is an oversized cashmere sweater paired with a skinny waxed denim, then I would size the client up two sizes in the sweater and ensure the denim is as tight as the client is comfortable in because all denim will generally stretch during wear.”
Invest in quality
“My rule of thumb is to invest in the items that will last through all seasons in terms of quality and style. For instance, the riding boot is a classic; there are so many ways to wear it, whether it be with jeans, a collared shirt and a cardigan or paired with an opaque nylon and skirt and sweater for work, it will always polish off an outfit. So the focus would be on quality leather to endure the climate and a simple yet sleek style to last the changing trends every season.”
Find forgiving fabrics
“Cotton jersey and anything with stretch will always be the most forgiving fabrics to wear in terms of comfort and ease of movement. To minimize any areas that you are not loving at the moment, the ‘boyfriend’ fit is a girl’s new best friend – it is always somewhat or totally oversized.”
Denim has to be perfect
Denim has to be a perfect fit! For the skinny jean the rule is to get the smallest size that is not uncomfortable on your waist even if it is very fitted elsewhere this is what you want because it will ease with wear. For straight leg denim ensure that same rules apply as to the skinny jean but get the jean long enough to wear with heels or cuff the bottom to wear with a flat shoe. For boyfriend jeans, don’t go overboard and actually wear your boyfriend’s jeans; basically look for a fit that sits low on the hips and is loose on the thighs and knee and then roll a small cuff at the bottom to above the ankle or hit at mid-calf.
To the tailor
My favourite tailors are in Holt Renfrew, but if the garments are not purchased from there then unfortunately you cannot take them there so the next best is your neighbourhood tailor. Just ensure you start them with something easy – like a pant hem or taking in the waist – to gauge their work before giving them an expensive or special item.
Get out of your comfort zone
“My biggest tip to anyone looking to shop like a stylist is to push yourself out of your own comfort zone. Don’t always go to the same stores, don’t alway try on the same style of jeans or tops etc. Push yourself to try new stores, styles and colours! It’s the best way to advance and enhance your personal style.”
Check out Phaedra Godchild’s blog at styleista.ca