Does this make me look ... ?
- Leslie@Mastery Coaching, Consulting, Organizing & Expediting
- Jan 9
- 4 min read
I coach and organize.
By that I mean help folks figure out what's bugging them, what's in the way, what they want to do but can't seem to, help them do it, and figure out what they need for a streamlined, easier, masterful life.
Intentions, directions, tasks, and assistance.
But, I don't help with taxes, computers, insurance, selling homes, or food, car, or clothing choices. (Although I will help you declutter, organize, manage, figure out who can serve you best, and what your next steps are.)
I know when to refer to other professionals who do.
Lately, many clients are in the mood to clear out clothing and update their wardrobes.
I recommend Laurel Kinney, a personal stylist.
Curious?
Read my interview with Laurel for for insights into what a personal stylist does and why you should experience the experience at least once. (Some of my longest-term clients started with a trial ‘"To see if it’s worth it, if I like it" session.)
**Bonus, her recommendations on selling no-longer-loved clothing.
What’s a personal stylist?
A personal stylist is someone who can help you discover your style and shop to create outfits accordingly.
A good stylist will ask a lot of questions and get to know you so that you aren't just shown what that stylist likes or what's on trend, but pieces that suit your figure, budget, and lifestyle.
It can either be a transformation or a transaction, depending on the stylist.
How did you get into this?
I was a burned-out social worker in 2010 who wanted to do something more creative while helping people. I worked with another stylist who showed me the ropes. It took me 5 years of slowly building up to it being a full-time profession.
What do your clients like about your work with them?
My clients love that I make them feel comfortable, not judged, and keep them giggling while we figure out what works.
I am really good at turning a concept into something visual, and love to help my clients interpret their likes/dislikes/feelings/what makes them feel good into clothes that they can wear across all the contexts of their lives.
I help them see the meaning behind what they wear so they can feel more connected to their wardrobes.
Mostly I am chill and real and allow them to feel the same.
What have you learned from your clients?
I have learned how to put style into more concrete terms so they can turn something super subjective into something that makes more sense, so they can figure it out and move on.
I've also learned that most people are attracted to several different styles at once, and the secret to feeling self-expressed is to be able to integrate them all at once.
What do you see in people’s wardrobes that they shouldn’t keep?
Anything they don't feel physically comfortable in, or if you look at it and it reminds you of something dark from your past, or if you take it off every time you try it without ever leaving the house in it.
Where can people sell no-longer-needed clothing?
There are lots of options depending on the piece--designer: TheRealReal, Indie brands: Noihsaf Bazaar, Trendy: DePop, Vintage: ebay & etsy, Everything else: Poshmark
Some might see your service as a luxury. How do your clients see it?
They see it as a way to solve a problem.
I help my clients save money by no longer buying or wearing things they don't love, plus they learn their style in a deeper way that makes sense and can be replicated, and the process of shopping is never as arduous ever again.
Do you work remotely?
Yes, I work virtually with clients all over the world, and in person in Austin TX, Northern New Mexico, and wherever a client wants to fly me!
What’s a typical client experience like?
Everyone is usually a little nervous at first, but less so as we start to move through the process of getting to know each other and showing me what's in the closet.
By the time we shop, I have usually shown them that I "get them" and they trust the process.
It just feels fun and easy.
We wrap up by me showing them 30 different outfits with their new and pre-existing clothes. They feel relieved and excited to start wearing their clothes, going out more, getting dates, dream jobs, and collecting compliments!
How long do clients typically work with you?
The initial process typically can take anywhere from 10 days to a month to complete, and from there I work with many clients seasonally, whenever they need a refresh, or have a special event.
Are there other professionals you suggest clients work with?
Obviously, I recommend a personal organizer for clients with packed wardrobes, but I also have had clients benefit from makeup lessons from makeup artists who can show them the right products/colors and ways to apply.
A good hairstylist is also a great person to find because a cool haircut does a lot of work for you, style-wise!
Meet Laurel Kinney and see some great examples at
503.984.1765
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