When I am out shopping for Indiana Wardrobe Stylist clients or myself, one of the best parts is seeing the people I know who work at various retail establishments. It’s just fun and gives me the social part of life that I most missed when I stopped working at my previous job.
It’s amazing to me that many of these people have held their jobs for years, considering I have done so as well, celebrating 14 years in the beauty and style industry, two of those as a professional makeup artist. Time goes so fast. And the longer you work in a profession, the more you think of the economics and business practices that drive that industry. I don’t often take a deep dive into that territory, but today I am.
Shopping as an Indiana Wardrobe Stylist
What triggered that line of thought is what happened yesterday. I had bought a somewhat unusual dress for me — strapless; had shades of blue, gold, silver, and bronze; and a shiny, bold material. It was strapless but fit my shape with narrower shoulders, a smaller waist, and wider hips. But with alterations (and some added undergarments), the look was perfect.
Next, I needed accessories such as shoes and purses. I knew I didn’t want to totally match my dress–which would have been difficult anyway–so I chose navy sandals with very narrow straps and a little bit of metallic instead. My purse was a more bold silver envelope clutch that I loved. I wanted to keep costs somewhat lower since my dress was more expensive. I don’t have regrets though.
As I was standing at this department store looking at the bag I thought I would buy for $48, a lady was also looking at the bags. She told me she had bought a similar bag from Amazon for $16. She said I hope it’s ok, but if it isn’t, I’ve only spent $16. I stood there and thought, oh, I could buy from Amazon too. But I didn’t. I took my bag to the shoe department, so the helpful associate who had helped me try on 6 pairs of shoes could get the commission.
To me, I like to support local companies and realize I am helping some of my fellow associates who collect salaries, pay bills, and support families each day they work in retail.
It was an epiphany to me that even small purchases can help or hurt people. I could have bought my entire outfit on Amazon or other discount retailers, but it would not have fit as well or been as perfect in my eyes.
My Shopping Philosophy
Do I buy products at Amazon? I do, but I don’t buy clothes there. It’s a personal decision you have to make. As an Indiana Wardrobe Stylist, I would rather support my local retailers, whether it’s a small business or large department store. That way, when I need their quality and personal attention, they’ll be there.
If we continue to stop supporting local retail, I am convinced one day it will be gone. And I will be sad about that.
For help identifying your style before your next shopping expedition, reach out for styling guidance!
Keep it sassy, Indy.
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Personal Image Consultant
