Personal Shopper vs. Personal Stylist: What Are the Differences?

A personal shopper is someone who helps customers select items, usually clothing, based on their individual taste and budget. A personal stylist, on the other hand, is someone who works with clients to develop and enhance their personal style. If you’re interested in a career in fashion and enjoy helping others, then either of these positions could be a good fit for you. In this article, we compare and contrast personal shoppers and personal stylists, and we provide information on what you can expect from each role.

What is a Personal Shopper?

Personal Shoppers are employed by retail stores to provide one-on-one shopping assistance to customers. They use their in-depth knowledge of the store’s merchandise to help customers find the perfect items to suit their needs and budget. They often develop relationships with regular customers and provide them with personalized service. Personal Shoppers typically work on commission, so they have an incentive to sell more items. In some cases, Personal Shoppers may also be responsible for placing orders for out-of-stock items and arranging for delivery or pick-up.

What is a Personal Stylist?

Personal Stylists help people shop for clothing and accessories that suit their individual style, body type and budget. They may work with clients one-on-one or in a group setting. Personal Stylists may work in a retail setting, such as a clothing store or department store, or they may work independently. Some Personal Stylists may also offer wardrobe consulting or closet organization services. Personal Stylists typically have a background in fashion and know how to put together stylish and flattering outfits for their clients. They stay up-to-date on the latest fashion trends to ensure their clients always look their best.

Personal Shopper vs. Personal Stylist

Here are the main differences between a personal shopper and a personal stylist.

Job Duties

Personal shoppers and personal stylists share some of the same job duties, such as researching their clients’ needs and interests. They may also both meet with clients in person or over video chat to discuss shopping plans and then locate suitable items for purchase. However, personal stylists typically focus more on the shopping aspect of their jobs and less on the client’s overall style preferences.

Personal shoppers often perform additional duties that are more specialized to the client’s needs. For example, a shopper might find unique pieces that suit their client’s specific tastes and style goals. A shopper can also offer advice to clients about how certain outfits look on them and styling tips they can use at home.

Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for personal shoppers or stylists, but many in the field have a background in fashion design, merchandising, or retail management. Many learn through on-the-job training, though some may pursue certification through organizations such as the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI). AICI offers several levels of certification, each with its own educational requirements. The organization also requires certified image consultants to adhere to a code of ethics and participate in continuing education courses to maintain their certification.

Work Environment

Personal shoppers and personal stylists typically work in different environments. Personal shoppers often work for high-end department stores, where they travel to various locations to find the latest fashions for their clients. They may also work for online shopping sites or fashion magazines. Personal shoppers usually work during regular business hours, but they may have irregular schedules that require them to work evenings and weekends.

Personal stylists typically work as independent contractors, which means they can set their own hours and choose when and where they want to work. However, some personal stylists may work for a company or agency that provides them with clients. Personal stylists may work on location at their client’s home or office, or they may meet with their clients at a salon or boutique.

Skills

There are several similarities in the skills used by personal shoppers and personal stylists. Both need to have excellent customer service skills to build relationships with clients and understand their needs. They also both need to be good at multitasking and managing their time, as they often work with multiple clients at one time.

There are also several differences in the skills used by these two professionals. Personal shoppers typically need to have strong organizational skills to keep track of their clients’ orders and preferences. Personal stylists, on the other hand, need to have a keen eye for fashion and trends to help their clients choose clothing that flatters them and is stylish.

Salary

Personal shoppers and personal stylists both work in the fashion industry. Personal shoppers earn an average salary of $41,050 per year, while personal stylists earn an average salary of $44,646 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the location of the job, the size of the company and the level of experience the professional has.