Personal Buyer Can Help Shop, So You Don’t Drop
Dear Fashion Police: In early February, I will set off on a book and lecture tour. My publicist says that I should start shopping now and that I’ll need three suits that pack without wrinkling. However, she added that what’s offered in the travel clothing catalogs is not quite spiffy, chic or professional enough for my public appearances.
Unfortunately, I have shopper-skill deficit disorder. When I enter a mall or department store, I usually wander around like a character from “Night of the Living Dead” for an hour or two, and then return home demoralized and empty-handed. Seems like it’s time for me to hire a personal shopper. Where do I begin?
--GET ME OUT OF
SHOPPING HELL
Dear Get: A personal shopper is a great idea for an angst-ridden zombie like you. In fact, personal shoppers are good for anyone who hates shopping, has little time or stamina for it, or becomes confused and disoriented in large areas filled with clothing and other objects for sale.
We realize that some of you are intimidated by personal shoppers, but there’s no reason to be. They’re not there to judge your taste level or budget or shoe size. They’re there to help. It’s a beautiful thing.
Most major department stores such as Macy’s, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue have personal shoppers, and the service is almost always free, but do check first--some have rules and restrictions. At
all of them you must, however, make an appointment, and it’s helpful to give the personal shopper as much information as possible up front so she can either start pulling merchandise for you, or know what areas to target in the store.
Smaller boutiques may not have formal services, but if you have a favorite shop, call the manager and explain your dilemma. He or she may be able to help.
In your case, let the shopper know as much as possible about the kinds of suits you’re after. Mention any favorite designers or looks, such as pantsuits with cropped jackets, short skirts with long jackets, etc. Tell her your color and fabric preferences (i.e., ones that won’t wrinkle), and of course the basics, such as your sizes and price range. If you’ll need accessories such as shoes, stockings, handbag or jewelry, let her know that, too. You do not have to purchase anything if nothing appeals to you.
Also tell her where you’ll be going so she’ll have an idea of the kinds of weather you’ll be encountering. Most personal shoppers will soon be inundated with holiday purchasing, so make your appointments as soon as possible.
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From the Fashion Police Blotter: Last week, “What a Waist” wrote asking where to find high-waisted jeans to fit her high-waisted figure. We suggested trying Levi’s Original Spin jeans, where you can create your own pair of denims, and asked readers for other suggestions.
You wonderful people never disappoint. Here are your suggestions, in no particular order, and thanks to everyone who wrote, e-mailed or faxed in your tips. We are forever in your debt.
* Lands’ End catalog (women’s jeans can be ordered with a custom inseam): https://www.landsend.com, (800) 963-4816.
* L.L. Bean catalog (natural-fit jeans): https://www.llbean.com, (800) 441-5713.
* Gap (reverse-fit jeans): various stores around the country, https://www.gap.com, (800) 427-7895.
* Victoria’s Secret catalog (London jean): https://www.victoriassecret.com, (800) 970-1109.
* Chadwick’s of Boston catalog (Zena jean): https://www.chadwicks.com, (800) 525-6650.
* Eddie Bauer (their loose-fit and relaxed-fit jeans come up to the natural waist; tall sizes have a longer rise): various stores around the country, https://www.eddiebauer.com, (800) 625-7935.
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Write to Fashion Police, 202 W. 1st St., Los Angeles CA 90012, fax to (213) 237-4888, or send e-mail to socalliving@latimes.com.
