Personal Stylists: A Must or a Mistake?

Time to speak for the masses… as college students, we’re all busy, on a tight budget, and once you do have some time and extra money saved up, getting to the mall can be a nightmare. Especially when you haven't been able to convince your parents you really do need a car at school.

But, just when I thought all hope was lost, I stumbled upon some inspiration as I was online shopping during my supposedly “focused” midterm study session. I came upon StitchFix.  The concept sounded perfect—I'd have a personal online stylist to pick out a 5-piece ensemble to fit my looks, stay within my budget, and deliver it straight to my door every month. And best of all, no car needed! Perfect, right? Well, maybe.

I immediately worried about my budget.  This has got to be expensive... 5 pieces and a personal stylist. With lack of sleep starting to set in, my skepticism expanded, wondering if it would actually fit my unique monochromatic, chic-meets-feminine style.  After weighing the odds, I decided to take one for the team and try out this "new" shopping trend and decide if it is actually worth the money, so you won't have to.    

The Research Phase

As I began the experiment, I first did a little research and found other companies including Trunk Club and Wantable with a similar concept.  However, since StitchFix is SF based, has great reviews, and has the fastest shipping time (I couldn't wait for new clothes), I decided to give StitchFix the test drive. So here it goes... turn by turn.

The Sign-Up Phase

I began by making my own personal StitchFix account, initially by taking a fashion quiz where I was asked countless questions about my style, preferred fit, budget, and the brands I love. The style quiz was not a fast freeway 65 MPH process, it was more like a drive across town with multiple streets to choose from and ways to get there. Since I wanted to represent the average college student on a budget, I chose basic brands I had seen around campus like Madewell, Lululemon, and TopShop with a max budget of $150 a month. Overall, it took about 20 minutes and was quite extensive. But hey, as the Oakland A’s always say, “You can’t buy hustle. ” StitchFix promised once I received my shipment of 5 hand selected items in about a week and a half, I’d have 4 days to try them on and decide what I'd like to keep and buy. Any items that I did not like could be returned at no charge. As I logged out, I saw I had already been matched with a "personal" stylist and my wait began. 

The Try-On Phase

My package arrived after a week and a half as promised.  I immediately tore into the packaging and saw my 5 items.  

The first was a pair of Pistola distressed grey jeans that by some miracle fit perfectly- and did not even need to be hemmed to accommodate my short legs (or more politely described in fashion as petite).  Having an exact proportioned length pair of pants was definitely a first. I was initially unsure about the medium grey wash, but after experimenting with some solid cool toned neutrals to create a chic fall look, I decided to keep them.

The second piece was a maroon silk cami with a scalloped neckline by Papermoon. I paired it with an embroidered denim cutoff jacket and black high-waisted jeans. The look was exciting, but the cut was unflattering so I decided to return it.  

A not-so-basic Blanc Noir black crop top with mesh paneling was my next item.  Worn with a light wash high-waisted denim, this was undoubtedly my favorite item sent.  

The fourth item was a classic moto jacket by Bagatelle. I fell in love with the unique burgundy color and suede material instead of basic leather.  Even from a distance you could tell the piece was finely made. Sadly, the jacket was too big (and because I already have several moto jackets) I decided to return it too.    

The final item was just a step above your average loungewear.  I was sent a grey lace up long sleeve shirt by Velvet that I paired with distressed blue jeans and the classic white converse sneaker. I appreciated the versatility- I could easily wear it with leggings to channel the athleisure vibe for my 8ams, then with jeans for a simple day-look.  Better yet, worn with a Cal hat, I had a wholesome gameday outfit for parent’s weekend.

The Final Review

All in all, I decided to return only two of the five items sent to me.  Luckily, the company sent me a prepared package with stamps and a return address specifically for returning the unwanted items. All I had to do was drop it off at the post office, allowing for maximum laziness.  They know us so well.  

 Overall, I would order from StitchFix again, and I highly recommend it for college students.  Not only did I save time that I would have spent shopping, but my stylist sent me clothes that blended well with my current closet.  Unfortunately, none of the prices were listed on the items when they arrived so I had to look them up on the website. However, despite my initial worries, she totally understood my aesthetic and my experiment was a success.                

Words by Chanel Tracey

Photography by Lena Zhou