If someone you know is in need a fashion makeover do you tell them? Short answer? No way, uh-uh, 100% no. In my twelve years of dressing women have I ever told someone they needed a makeover? Nope. It’s a strict rule I swear by, to never tell anyone they need help, even when I desperately think they do. Do I make women over in my head? Yes, all the time. In fact, my brain runs on auto pilot, which can get pretty noisy in my head when I am walking down a NYC street. I tweak everyone I encounter, not because they all look bad, but because I am so conditioned, at the point, to style people. This is what a one block walk can sound like in my mind, “Great shoes, needs a belt. Ooh, if only she hemmed her pants. Needs some color. Wish she was wearing a necklace.” I don’t even hear myself anymore.
On my YouTube channel, I shared this video about this topic and why it is never a good idea to actually tell someone outright that they need fashion help. I also give my advice on how to plant the seed with someone you think might need a fashion makeover and, if you are a boss who has an employee who needs some style help, some ways to go about approaching them that is empowering and respectful. Watch the video below for my advice.
Further reading
If you think you need a makeover or to hire a stylist to help you with a makeover of your own.
What You Need to Know Before You Hire a Fashion Stylist If hiring a stylist seems appealing but you really don’t know what is involved, this blog post will give you all the information you need.
To better understand what it is like to be a stylist and what the job entails, get a glimpse here. It may explain to you why you have a hard time figuring out what to wear.
[…] found Bridgette Raes’ advice on how to tell someone they need a makeover very […]
I’m so glad I watched your video. I have a protégée that needs a professional makeover, but having a speaker come in for the entire office with more of a broad message will be MUCH better than the approach I had in mind. Thank you.
I am so happy this helps! Yes, when one person is singled out it doesn’t go well. I can understand your desire to help, but you have to be gentle. Also, you as her mentor, you should be able to help her and point out where she could improve, but a gentle touch is the best call. If you ever need a person to come in and speak at your company I would be happy to do it!
I enjoyed your video. Very insightful and straightforward. That’s important. You really want to have someone who is real and down to earth and considerate of where people are more than about selling their services. Hope you are meeting success with your career goals.