Spotlight: Kristy K, Wardrobe Stylist
OC Register, October 2000
By Susan Funk, OC Register
Describe your business:
I go into a home and organize a closet. The goal is to help them put together outfits with things they already have. A lot of times closets are filled with stuff. Sometimes the old stuff is in front and new items are pushed to the back. We bring everything out and go through it. I‘ll take a top, pull out some pants and find some boots to tie it all in. I also make a list of things to round out their wardrobe, and I’ll even go get what they need. Or, sometimes a husband will need to get his wife a gift. Since I know her and her size, I’ll get it, wrap it and deliver it to his office. It’s a behind-the-scenes-service.
Where did you get the idea?
I’ve always worked in fashion. I was in sales for a sportswear company, worked small boutiques in L.A., and used to sell shoes at Nordstrom’s. Clients would say they wished they had someone like me to show them what to put together. I started doing this part time. It’s been about a year since going full time. My clients typically are moms who don’t want to look too young or too old.
They want to be organized, feel good and be informed without being trendy. Others have lost or gained weight. If they like something, but it’s a size down, I stick it in a box. So everything hanging in the closet is something that fits them now that they can wear today. Male clients mostly want organization. They’re usually professionals who don’t want to think about putting together a suit, tie and shirt, so I pre-assemble the outfits and have them ready.
How much did it cost to get started? Where did you get the money?
Under $5,000 from savings.
Your expected revenue for this year?
$30,000
Biggest thing you didn’t think of?
It’s hard in a short amount of time to communicate to prospective clients that it’s not just a fashion thing, it’s to help people get organized so when they get dressed, it’s easy. It’s a lifestyle. I didn’t realize that would be tough.
Your motivation?
I’m doing my passion. I get so excited for my clients. When I see things in the store I think of them and what would be good on them. It doesn’t feel like work to me.
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