The party is in February and Chrisi had very few requirements: white, and unique.
Firstly, I LOVE the theme of a white party (one of the very few themes I like!). My second thought is that a whole group of white-wearing 21 year olds would shop in the same places. Because of this, I looked at interstate labels, with very little presence in Melbourne (however, enough presence that I could source the garments for Chrisi - eg. Aje), and secondly higher-end online clothing boutiques (such as Shopbop - no Asos here!).
When it comes to the term 'unique' clients need to understand, that some of these pieces are made-to-order, or are even sourced from overseas - and hence allowing yourself enough time to order the dress, see if you like it, and then make adjustments if necessary, is key.
As Chrisi had not set out any guidelines such as length or budget, I designed a brief that varied in styles.
My personal pick for Chrisi: Aje Precious Opal dress in white (featured in black in the brief above).
I have spoken to Aje, who are able to create this garment for Chrisi in white. Aje is based predominantly in Sydney (with a new boutique that has just recently opened up in Brisbane), making it more difficult for other partygoers to readily access. Again, without enlisting a help of a stylist that has a good rapport with a certain company, the label may not agree to create you a garment in a colour that is not already offered. This dress also has a high neck, which is not a common feature of dresses this season - another check! The outfit is fitted, so will show off Chrisi's gorgeous physique (big plus!). And lastly has a large split through the middle, which eliminates this dress from being 'an over-the-top formal gown', making it sexy and edgy.
My styling tips for this particular dress would be a statement ear (in diamonds, to team with the 'white' theme), accompanied by a wrist, a gorgeous pair of heels (that are also comfortable, so that Chrisi can enjoy her 21st), and a clutch. As the dress code is quite strict in terms of colour, we are able to work with different shades of white, textures and even clear accessories.
The styling would also depend on Chrisi's budget, as she may want to reduce costs on accessories whilst splurging on the dress, by using items that she already owns.
Hair for this particular dress should be off the face (perhaps a beautiful big bun) so that you can see the neckline of the dress, and the statement earrings; and makeup should be a dark smokey eye to contrast the white-on-white look.
Chrisi's next step is to choose an outfit (if she cannot find an outfit from this brief, then we will create another edit) that she 100% loves, so that she has no regrets, and if desired work on the all important accessories - my favourite part!
Tips when using a stylist:
Having a client with too little requirements can be difficult, as it gives a lot of space for 'error'. If you don't like a particular cut because of how it sits on your body, or you aren't prepared to pay thousands of dollars for a dress - it is best to let your stylist know in advance.
On the flipside, having a client with too many requirements can be difficult, as it can restrict a lot of options, and can also eliminate the garments that a stylist may think the client wouldn't pick themselves (and surprisingly would like!). An example of this is a mid length white dress, with sequins, one shoulder, tight, must be able to be purchased in Melbourne so that I do not have to pay postage, and in total must cost no more than $50. Now I'm not saying that this can't be done, however, the client must expect that the options will not be as varied and as many, as a client with fewer restrictions.
About electronic briefs
With an electronic brief (most commonly used for clients outside of Melbourne), this is paid for upfront, and includes edits. Meaning, if you choose a style you really like from the brief, I can find you more of that style; or if you found that the garments in your brief differed from your expectations, I can assist in creating a new edit - free of charge. Some clients, once they have secured their garment, will come back for a second brief for accessories. Other clients might have a certain accessory that they want to use, and we work the garment around that. Which ever way you want to create your outfit, we can work with what suits you and your needs.
If you would like a quote on a special event that is coming up, send me an email at jspstyling@gmail.com
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